For better or worse, history has shown us that writing and booze often go together like words and paper. Oscar Wilde dug absinthe, Ernest Hemingway was into extra-cold Martinis with pickled onions, and Dorothy Parker’s drink of choice was a Whisky Sour. Sydney distillery Archie Rose’s latest spirit, the Writer’s Gin, continues that alcohol-soaked tradition. It’s a celebration of Australian literature, its label emblazoned with a quote from beloved Aussie novelist and essayist Helen Garner: “Every page of writing is the result of a thousand tiny decisions and desperate acts of will.”
“The gin is a beautiful expression of our love of Australian literature and we felt Helen’s quote also reflected the journey of creation we go through making our spirits,” Archie Rose spokesperson Victoria Tulloch tells Broadsheet. “The Writer’s Gin is an ode to the art of literature and we created it to celebrate the pleasure of both reading and writing.”
This is the latest in a series of Archie Rose gins celebrating artists and creators. So far there’s been a tribute to artist Cressida Campbell and a gin celebrating Sydney World Pride, its label designed by illustrator Luke John Matthew Arnold. This time around, Archie Rose worked with The Monthly editor and former Sydney Writers’ Festival artistic director Michael Williams, book designer Evi O Studio and retailer Booktopia for its paean to the written word.
The gin is available solo or in a bundle with a bookmark designed by Evi O Studio and two books: Birnam Wood by Eleanor Catton and The Bookbinder of Jericho by Pip Williams. There’s also the option to add on a pair of Maison Balzac coupes or goblets to set the stage for extra-stylish reading sessions.
“We recommend you drink [the gin] paired with your novel and tonic of choice as the perfect ending to a long week, or treat yourself to it as you navigate the pleasure – and pain – of writing,” says Tulloch. “It’s also brilliant mixed in a dry Martini, as the foundation of a robust discussion at your next book club.”
On that note, both novels will be discussed at a special one-off book club at the Library Bar in the State Library of NSW. Michael Williams will lead a Q&A with two to-be-announced panellists on July 25. Naturally, a welcome drink is involved.
archierose.com.au