Victorian Spirits From the Garden

This delightful back-to-basics book is a reprint of Old Time Recipes for Home Made Wines by Helen Wright originally compiled in 1909 from the recipes of the wives of English sea captains in New England. This updated edition has a full glossary of historical terms ingredients and current equipment sources for setting up a home spirits workshop. Since the recipes use plants readily found in home gardens it appeals to gardening and brewing hobbiests alike who want to be free of the additives and prices of commercial drinks those who seek unique tastes and enjoy the pride of DIY. There are wines beers cordials liqueurs meads brandies champagnes and spirits over 200 recipes -- all easy to do and charmingly described -- everything from Tomato Wine to the Tears of the Widow of Malabar. This book is key to living simply and well and it fills a niche in the chefs garden allowing him or her to pair the perfect drink with their dishes. Most of the recipes are for small five bottle batches which can be done in any kitchen with local ingredients and commonly availble spices. Many enthusiastic gardners and brewers will be inspired create their own one-of-a-kind home brands to serve guests complete with unique labels and bottles. 5.5 X 8.5 132 pages. Color illustrations.