“True knowledge exists in knowing that you know nothing.”
– Socrates

I don’t know what he was talking about, so I am therefore extremely knowledgeable on the subject.

Socrates was known to enjoy a good cocktail now and then, believe it or not. I have seen the French painter David’s famous tribute to the great Greek, in which Socrates is holding aloft his delicious cocktail, about to savor the first sip. I’m not too sure why the painting is called “The Death of Socrates,” but you know these Neoclassical painters, so dramatic all the time. Anyway, I’m sure it was tasty. (What, too soon for a hemlock joke? It was 2,400 years ago, for goodness sake.)

Socrates and his Philosophers

Let’s pass on the poison as we ponder this pensive potion. Luckily, the logic in this one is obvious. The “Socrates” cocktail appeared in Australian mixologist, journalist and author Jane Rocca’s 2005 book, “The Cocktail – 200 Fabulous Drinks”. Some modifications to it have occurred since, such as swapping in Canadian whisky and Cointreau, and changing the proportions, so feel free to argue your own philosophy on how to best perfect this recipe, or why it might have been named after our erstwhile Athenian. I don’t propose to know, which again, makes me wise, right? In other words (those of the “modern” day philosopher Mark Twain), “It ain’t what you don’t know that gets you into trouble. It’s what you know for sure that just ain’t so.” Of course, apparently, Twain never said that. Cheers!

Socrates (as originally published by Jane Rocca)

2 oz Scotch whisky

1 oz apricot brandy

1 tsp triple sec

1 dash Angostura bitters

Stir ingredients well with ice and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with intellect, wit and well-reasoned arguments – although the garnish is debatable.

Socrates and the Illogical Box

For more about the illogically logical “Illogical Box” and to read the full article see:

Boxes and Booze: Socratic Methods