Subscribe Now

The Magazine

Northshore October 2025
Warm cocktails are as much a part of the history of Massachusetts as tea—perhaps even more so. In colonial times, every tavern served a Hot Ale Flip—one of the earliest mixed drinks around. The blend of eggs, molasses, hot ale, and rum, stirred with a glowing poker into a bubbling frenzy, was so popular that Corin Hirsch called it the Cosmopolitan of the 18th century in her book Forgotten Drinks of Colonial New England: From Flips and Rattle-Skulls to Switchel and Spruce Beer. Warm ale was considered to be medicinal—and the presentation of the drink, which was often tossed between two pitchers to create a froth, made it fun. Whi
Already a subscriber (including print subscriptions)? LOG IN HERE

Keep Reading — It's Free to Join

You've reached your limit of free articles this month. Create a free account to continue reading Northshore Magazine content and get our weekly email newsletter.

Want full access and a print subscription? Subscribe now.