Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services (ABS) has released the tenth episode of its podcast series “Spirited Discussions: A Podcast by Montgomery County Alcohol Beverage Services.” The new episode, “Literature’s Most Famous Drinks,” uncorks the fascinating relationship between classic literature and the iconic cocktails that have become inseparable from the stories that popularized them. 

ABS Liquor Store Assistant Manager Mike Gantt and MCPL Librarian Nathan Chadwick join host Jocelyn Rawat to curate a list of a dozen books and their signature drinks that will keep readers entertained while they relax by the pool or plan a cocktail-themed book club. Guests share literary insights paired with bartending tips – like why James Bond’s preference for “shaken not stirred” results in a weaker drink or how some bars incorrectly make the tequila sunrise.  

The episode coincides with MCPL’s second annual “Color our World Adult Summer Reading Challenge 2025,” which encourages participants to read six books or attend six programs to be eligible for prizes.  

Now on its tenth episode, “Spirited Discussions” continues to experience steady growth. The series recently received a National Association of Counties Achievement Award recognizing innovative and effective county government programs. Episode 3 “Control Model for Alcohol Distribution,” which aims to demystify the department’s complex and impactful role in the community, holds the top spot for the most downloaded episode. 

ABS retail stores carry all the spirits needed to make the twelve recipes featured in the podcast episode. Customers can sign up to receive weekly e-newsletters for sales and specials, new products, limited availability items and community news at www.montgomerycountymd.gov/abs/join/. 

“When you sip these cocktails, you can’t help but imagine Jay Gatsby, Holly Golightly or any of the other characters who enjoyed them,” said Rawat. “All of these recipes can be made as mocktails if you prefer to replicate the presentation and artistry of the drink without alcohol.” 

ABS retail stores carry many low- and no-alcohol beers, wines and spirits that provide an interesting and attractive alternative to traditional alcoholic drinks. 

The podcast helps residents and businesses better understand alcohol products, industry trends and policies in Montgomery County. The podcast is posted on the department’s website and is available on several podcast platforms including Amazon, Apple and Spotify. Subscribe to the podcast by selecting the “follow” or “plus” button on your provider’s podcast platform. 

Listeners are encouraged to email ideas and questions for future episodes to [email protected]. 

The Office of Broadband Programs in the County’s Department of Technology and Enterprise Business Solutions (TEBS) provides technical support for the ABS podcast. 

ABS is the alcohol wholesaler of beer, wine and spirits for Montgomery County and operates 27 retail stores throughout the County. In addition, ABS manages alcohol licensing, enforcement and education for more than 1,000 businesses. Generating more than $35 million in net income annually, its profits are used to pay down County debt with a large portion deposited in the general fund to pay for resident services that otherwise would be funded by County tax dollars.  

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