"That is part of the beauty of all literature. You discover that your longings are universal longings, that you're not lonely and isolated from anyone. You belong." -- F. Scott Fitzgerald
Today would be F. Scott Fitzgerald's 116th birthday and I thought we'd celebrate his memory with a slice of cake (and a spirited cocktail!). He wasn't particularly southern, but he married up, choosing a wickedly adventurous southern belle for his bride.
According to Hemingway & Bailey's Bartending Guide, Fitzgerald and his wife, Zelda were a "pair of drunken pranksters" known for jumping into the fountain at the Plaza Hotel, boiling party guests' watches in tomato soup and arriving at soirees in their pajamas.
The book also notes that F. Scott Fitzgerald's drink of choice was gin and shares the following recipe for a gin cocktail that he might have enjoyed.
Gin Rickey
2 oz gin
3/4 oz lime juice
club soda
lime wheel
Pour gin & lime juice into a chilled highball glass filled with ice cubes. Top with club soda and stir gently. Garnish with lime wheel and serve with two straws.
Cheers to F. Scott Fitzgerald & Cheers to you my friend!