80 years ago today, the amendment was ratified to repeal the prohibition of alcohol in the United States. Water, grain alcohol, mash/juniper berries/potatoes/etc…it really seems like a lot of work to make your own “bathtub gin.” Although not usually made in a bathtub, bootleg spirits are about as American as apple pie, as is the idea of personal freedoms. Sidenote, did you know that many modern cocktails were designed to mask the taste of homemade alcohol?

Zelda declares her favorite skill.

One of my favorite drinking holidays, Repeal Day’s website tells you the basic idea behind its celebration: “There are no outfits to buy, costumes to rent, rivers to dye green. Simply celebrate the day by stopping by your local bar, tavern, saloon, winery, distillery, or brewhouse and having a drink. Pick up a six-pack on your way home from work. Split a bottle of wine with a loved one. Buy a shot for a stranger. Just do it because you can.”

You can celebrate – just like Jack! – with some ideas here:

♠ Art of Manliness (of course I bring them up whenever possible) has a great article about classic holiday cocktails, I personally recommend Buttered Bourbon anytime it’s chilly out.

♠ The Bourbon Babe has a few posts about ways to celebrate with, yes, bourbon.

♠ I have been trying to remain regular with My Home Bar posts, so you can always pick one from there, or check out my board for more ideas. My current new favorite is Smugglers Coffee.

Cheers to Repeal!