Mixing Literature and Libations: Renowned Beverage Expert David Wondrich Creates ‘Pemberley Punch’ to Celebrate Holland America Line’s Latest Book of the Month

Who better to craft a cocktail inspired by Jane Austen’s “Pride and Prejudice” than a world-renowned punch expert with ties to the Jane Austen Society? Holland America Line turned to its Culinary Ambassador and beverage historian David Wondrich to create a drink in the spirit of the Regency era that captures the elegance and charm of Austen’s world. The result — the Pemberley Punch — pays tribute to “Pride and Prejudice,” Holland America’s Book of the Month with Audible that is available to guests on board all Holland America Line ships throughout November.|

Named after the grand country estate of Mr. Darcy, one of the novel’s central characters, the Pemberly Punch evokes a taste of 19th-century sophistication by using flavors that pay homage to British punch making and a beverage that would have been served at the time in a great house such as Pemberley.

“With the Pemberley Punch, we’re blending classic flavors, literary inspiration and our passion for delivering unique on-board experiences to our guests,” said Drew Foulk, senior manager, beverage operations and dining innovations for Holland America Line. “David’s expertise in punch made this the perfect opportunity to have him craft a cocktail that makes ‘Pride and Prejudice’ a part of the cruise experience in a memorable way.”

Made with Hardys VSOP cognac, Appleton Estate Signature Jamaican rum, Luxardo maraschino liqueur lemon juice and Graham’s 6 Grapes ruby port (or other ruby port), the ingredients are poured into a champagne flute and topped off with Holland America Line Sparkling Wine.

The literary-themed cocktail is a nod of Holland America Line’s collaboration with Audible, which brings stories to life for guests at sea. Pemberley Punch will be served on board throughout November to celebrate Audible’s newly released "Pride and Prejudice" audiobook that is available to guests on board.

Why Create a Punch?
The sophisticated punch recipe comes from 1813, the year Jane Austen published “Pride and Prejudice” and the very peak of the great age of British punch-making. For almost a century and a half, the “flowing bowl” had fueled the gatherings of Britain’s high society, and the simple mix of spirits, citrus, sugar and water had evolved into something rich, subtle and heady.

About David Wondrich
Wondrich is widely hailed as one of the world’s foremost authorities on the history of the cocktail and one of the founders of the modern craft cocktail movement. He is a founding partner in Beverage Alcohol Resource, America’s leading advanced training program for bartenders and other mixologists. His book, "Punch: The Delights (and Dangers) of the Flowing Bowl," takes readers through of the history of punch and earned him an invitation to be a guest speaker at the Jane Austen Society, where he shared what each character would have been drinking in this era.

As a Holland America Line Culinary Ambassador, Wondrich will continue to create signature cocktails for the cruise line that reflect the culinary traditions of regions where the ships are exploring. Several of his curated cocktails, including a popular pirate-inspired rum punch, currently are served aboard Caribbean cruises.