The Legend of Jack Valentine

The legend of Jack Valentine lives on in the Norwich Lanes!

Valentine’s Day can feel a bit like being a Norwich City supporter on match day – full of promise but more than often, quite disappointing! Even for those lucky enough to be in the throes of passion, modern traditions can feel anything but romantic. A shop-bought card with a generic poem and a box of Maltesers somehow doesn’t quite cut the (Colman’s) mustard. Valentine’s Day in Norfolk hasn’t always been quite so humdrum however. The legend of the mysterious Jack Valentine lives on in the Norwich lanes. Historically, on Valentine’s Day eve, Jack Valentine would visit Norwich residents – leaving goodies on their doorstep and knocking on their door, before running away.

Jack is thought to have been a mischievous figure, bringing playfulness, generosity and humour to Valentine’s Day celebrations. Gifts were anonymous and extended to the whole community rather than solely for couples. Back in the late 19th century in Norfolk, Valentine’s Day was allegedly bigger than Christmas Day, with the entire community exchanging bags of presents. These Norfolk traditions focused much more on communal giving than romantic love.

We at Mindful Mixology are keen to embrace the inclusive spirit of these old customs this Valentine’s Day. Following nearly a year of lockdowns, in a time when we are missing loved ones more than ever, we believe Valentine’s Day is an opportunity to spread a bit of joy, not only to lovers, but to friends, family, neighbours or perhaps simply someone that could do with a boost (in the form of delicious 'pour-and-serve' cocktails of course).

For something citrusy and floral, we recommend the Grapefruit Margarita, made with premium tequila blanco and organic orange blossom water. Or you may prefer something a little dark and stormy for Valentine’s Day, in which case the Salted Coconut Espresso Martini should do the trick.

So, if when you order a cocktail delivery box from Mindful Mixology as a Valentine’s treat for someone, you can pop ‘Jack Valentine’ in the notes and we will ensure the cocktail delivery comes complete with a little note as per the Norfolk legend; "Open on Valentine's Day. Love Jack." You can also choose to make the cocktails anonymous for a little extra mystery that we think Jack himself would approve of.

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