Libations

For December 5th, Repeal Day

Nick & Nora throw a Christmas party. The Thin Man, 1934, MGM

If I could drop in on one party in movie history, it would be this one. In a swanky hotel suite in New York City on Christmas Eve, a roomful of wisecracking characters are thoroughly enjoying themselves as the cocktails flow.

The Thin Man, starring William Powell and Myrna Loy as the witty and glamorous couple Nick and Nora Charles, was released on May 25, 1934.

Five months earlier, on December 5, 1933, also known as “National Repeal Day” the 21st Amendment was ratified and Prohibition ended.

Set in 1932 in the last days of the gin joints, The Thin Man was one of the first big movies filmed and released post-Prohibition. The abandon and frequency with which the actors throw back the cocktails the script demands make the drinks in the film seem like their own characters.

It’s ninety years later and The Thin Man still has “an enduring effect on cocktail culture”. (The Daily Beast)

So, as an homage to the movie on this Repeal Day, two classic cocktails for the holidays.

The Bee’s Knees

The Bee’s Knees, served in a Nick & Nora glass. Photo: Jolene

The Bee’s Knees is a classic Prohibition era cocktail made with gin, honey and lemon juice.

One origin story is that the honey and lemon covered the taste of the bathtub gin. But there are other stories, so for more history on the Bee’s Knees and a recipe, just click here: the Kitchn.

Gin Martini

Martini. Photo: Getty Images

In the opening scene of The Thin Man, it’s a dry gin martini that William Powell is shaking up “to Walz time”.

There are several variations of the drink, including most notably the Vodka Martini — think James Bond.

But for Nick Charles, only the classic will do. You can find more about the cocktail and a recipe here: the Kitchn

If you’re looking for fresh ideas for cocktails and entertaining, I recommend sommelier, journalist and event planner

Erin Henderson

’s terrific newsletter

Quaintrelle

which consistently serves up delicious and intriguing drinks and menus.

Cheers!

Day Five of “The Little Town” Advent Calendar —Lamps in the Window

See you tomorrow. 🎅 (hint)

Jolene