The verdict is in: Bénédictine, that amber-hued liqueur with a reputation for being too niche, is finally getting its due. For years, it lingered in the shadows of cocktail history, overshadowed by more popular spirits. But now, thanks to bartenders like Shawn Lickliter, the Poet’s Dream—a drink once buried in a 1937 cocktail book—is clawing its way back into the light. Lickliter, owner of Vandell in Los Feliz, isn’t just reviving a forgotten recipe; he’s redefining how we think about balance, texture, and the quiet power of a well-chosen liqueur.
The Poet’s Dream isn’t about showy flair. It’s about harmony. Lickliter’s version starts with No. 3 Gin, a London dry from Berry Brothers, which he describes as “super clean.” Its minimal juniper and subtle grapefruit notes let Bénédictine—known for its honeyed leather character—shine without being smothered. But here’s the trick: he splits the base spirit, adding Pisco to temper the gin’s dominance. Capurro Quebranta, a smooth, herbal pisco, introduces stone fruit and pear tones, creating a layered complexity that feels effortless. This isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a conversation between ingredients, each one giving space for the next to breathe.
Lickliter’s journey with Bénédictine began years ago at Normandie Club, where he first tasted the Poet’s Dream. Since then, he’s tweaked the recipe relentlessly, refining it into something that feels both nostalgic and modern. The original 2:1 gin-to-vermouth ratio from the 1937 book is still there, but Lickliter’s adjustments—like the pisco addition—make it feel fresh. It’s a reminder that classic formulas can evolve without losing their soul.
The Poet’s Dream proves that overlooked ingredients can be game-changers. Bénédictine’s role isn’t to dominate but to elevate, and Lickliter’s approach shows how a single liqueur can bridge the past and present. What’s your favorite forgotten cocktail waiting to be rediscovered?
Questions & Answers
What inspired *The Poet’s Dream*?
The Poet’s Dream was inspired by the struggle to find one’s voice in a world that often overlooks creativity. It reflects the journey of embracing poetry as a form of truth and healing.
When was *The Poet’s Dream* released?
*The Poet’s Dream* was released in April 2025. It marks the debut of a new voice in contemporary poetry, blending personal reflection with universal themes.
Information sourced from industry reports and news outlets.
