"FROM THE CRADLE TO THE GRAVE WE NEED DRINK": DRINKS OF THE WORLD, 1892 FIRST EDITION

MEW, James; ASHTON, John. Drinks of the World. London; New York: Simpkin, Marshall, Hamilton, Kent & Co.; Scribner & Welford, 1892. Octavo, contemporary red full calf, elaborately gilt-decorated spine, raised bands, marbled endpapers, all edges gilt; housed in a custom slipcase. $2000.

First edition of this richly illustrated survey of drinks and drink culture from around the world, with 100 full-page and in-text wood-engraved illustrations, in a gorgeous and thematically appropriate Rivière & Son binding featuring hops and grapevines.

"The present volume is intended for that class of the public which is known as 'the general reader'; and its object is to interest rather than to inform" (page 9). Beginning with a survey of the alcoholic beverages of antiquity, Mew and Ashton then cover different types of distilled spirits, liqueurs, wines and beers, but also examine the history and consumption of such non-alcoholic beverages as tea, maté, coffee, cocoa, and even milk. Includes a chapter on "American Drinks"—"the cocktail is a comparatively modern discovery"—with three pages of recipes including Sleeper, Bishop, Locomotive, Bottled Velvet, Pousse l'Amour, Blue Blazer, Black Stripe, etc. Gabler G29710. Simon, 14. Bookplate.

One page corner neatly repaired. A fine copy, in a lovely binding.