We’ve almost reached the end of our Zodiac Cocktail series! Second to last is the sign of Aquarius which extends from January 20 through February 18. I know quite a few Aquarians who have been waiting patiently for their post and their cocktail, and I’m so happy to finally bring it to them. The sign of Aquarius is ruled by Uranus, the planet of unpredictable and innovative energy, and its element is air which is most often associated with intellectuals who have no trouble thinking along abstract lines. The mythological origins of Aquarius can be traced back to a young, beautiful boy named Ganymede with whom Zeus became obsessed. He sent his eagle to kidnap him because he though he would make a perfect cup bearer for the gods. Ganymede embraced his new responsibilities, but he would often take pity on mankind during times of drought, asking Zeus if he could bring water to the humans below by pouring it from his cup. Zeus eventually immortalized him in the heavens as the Water Bearer.

This humanitarian streak is perfectly fitting for Aquarians, who are often community-oriented, open minded individuals who love to fight for a worthy cause and bring their helpful energy to the world. Aquarians’ thinking can be quite visionary and cutting edge and they have no problem embracing the most forward ideas of invention and scientific research. They are fair, logical, serious minded, and refined. At times they may be almost too idealistic, which can lead them to become upset with the unfairness and inhumanity that can be found everywhere in the world. Since they also have a practical and sensible side, they are often able to rein themselves in without any intervention from others, emerging from their despondency with a new found determination to help in any way they can. They are persistent without being overly aggressive, and they express themselves reasonably and persuasively, often allowing others to see what they wouldn’t have been be able to otherwise. They have a dry sense of humor, and love spending time with close friends and family with whom they feel truly comfortable.

On the darker side, Aquarians often need time alone with their thoughts to reflect on the injustices that trouble them so much. This can make them appear detached, guarded, and unemotional. They are also deeply offended by deception of any kind will often become angry in a spectacular way if they are lied to. Aquarians’ tendency to be driven by their humanitarian goals can make them single minded in their pursuit of a career, even though it is one in which they will be focused on helping others. This can make relationships difficult at times. Once Aquarians fall in love, however, their love is unwavering and loyal, despite the fact that they will always need some time to themselves.

Aquarians love group projects, photography, electronics, and science fiction. They will fight endlessly for a worthy cause. They love their moments of freedom, even if it’s just to escape for a walk alone on the beach during a family vacation, where they can recharge. Although Aquarians like their time alone, they do not like to feel lonely, so they seek the companionship of others. They have tremendous disdain for empty promises, and don’t like people who talk without there being any substance behind what they are saying. They dislike imitations of any kind, and prefer original things (whether they be ideas or objects) that are extraordinary in some way.

There is often an ethereal quality to Aquarian’s physical features and their color is silver, so today’s cocktail needed to reflect that. Out of respect for their innovative thinking, I decided to choose ingredients that were totally new for me. I started out with pisco, a Peruvian spirit distilled from fresh grape juice, seeds, and skins without any additional ingredients, and with no time spent in oak. Pisco is said to capture the perfect essence of distilled grapes. Since the 1615 de Gran Terruño that I used has a slight peach aroma, I decided to go with a small amount of Giffard Pêche de Vigne because I thought it would work well with the pisco. Next I reached for Ama no To Tokobetsu Jenmai sake for its slight fruitiness and definite almond notes. I added in a rhubarb shrub for sweetness and some lemon juice for acidity. The end result was a cocktail that was beautiful in the silver-rimmed glass and whose ingredients were peaceful and harmonious together. Cheers Aquarius! I know you’ve waited a while for this. I hope you’re not disappointed!

Bring Water

2 oz Pisco 1615 de Gran Terruño
¼ oz Giffard Pêche de Vigne
¾ oz Ama no To Tokubetsu Junmai sake
½ oz Tait Farms rhubard shrub
¼ oz lemon juice

Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker with ice and shake until very cold. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass, hopefully one with a silver rim. Garnish with a lemon peel. Enjoy!