Suffering Bastard

The Suffering Bastard was invented in 1942 by Joe Scialom at Cairo's Shepheard Hotel, reportedly as a hangover cure for British soldiers during World War II. The drink balances brandy's warmth against gin's botanical sharpness, with lime cordial adding a sweet-tart brightness that cuts through both spirits. Ginger beer stretches the combination into a long, effervescent refresher with a spicy finish, while a dash of bitters lends subtle depth. It's restorative and sessionable—medicinal in the best sense.