To encompass civilisation and its defence, one must think in general terms: not shapes or ideas, but in colours, recognisable to all. In my estimation, three colours stand out above all as symbols of civilisation (and thus the basis of a good cocktail): blue, white, and red. In their most obvious forms, as national flags, the colours represent a spectrum of civil values: Anglo-Saxon freedom and the rule of law, French patriotism and equality, Dutch chilaxin’ and easy living. And that’s just within Europe: the Stars and Stripes have stood proud since the American Civil War, and post-Communist Russia tore down the hammer-and-sickle in favour of this triad of colours as the new Federation banner. Even within our own Union Flag, the colours stand for Scotland, Wales and England: sea, blood and God. I suggest, then, a foundation of blue Curacao to give a base and kick to the drink (its close relative, triple sec, is found in the Margarita, Long Island Iced Tea and Cosmopolitan, and it is a speakeasy staple). Serve the Curacao straight to the glass, until it is about half full. Next add to a shaker an ample amount of fresh sloe gin for the red, or a shot of cassis in a suitable mixer in the alternative. Then add to the shaker a white rum, some crushed ice, and an egg white. Shake, and pour on the Curacao. Serve without garnish.

Hollands gin, advocaat, and the juice from a jar of cockles. No ice.