What's a liquid antonym of vitriol (used figuratively)?

Are there any liquids (like vitriol is actually sulfuric acid) that we appropriate figuratively to mean high praise (i.e., the antonym of vitriol)?

Solution 1:

'Honey' might be close. It could be used to describe praise, but certainly doesn't mean praise. But 'words sweet as honey' could be the opposite of 'words full of vitriol'

Solution 2:

balsamic (3) Restorative; curative.

This hymn written mid C18 by clergyman / poet brothers John and Charles Wesley...

With humble fear I now draw near,
In my forlorn condition,
Thy balsamic words to hear,
And prove thee my Physician.

...but possibly today people might think more readily of balsamic vinegar - which although relatively sweet, is still basically an acid.

Solution 3:

The most specific word I know of is libation in its classical sense "A serving (of wine) poured out in honor of a deity". However, its facetious sense, "a serving of an alcoholic beverage" probably is used more often.

Terms ambrosia ("the food and drink of the gods") and nectar ("The sweet drink of the Ancient gods") might be used figuratively; eg "Ann's ambrosial words soon slaked Tom's thirst for praise". If you are writing humor you also can work in philtre ("A drink credited with magical power"), ardent spirits ("strong distilled liquor"), and hair of the dog ("An alcoholic drink supposed to cure a hangover").

Solution 4:

I suggest unction.

Although the most prominent definitions refer specifically to the oil used in anointing, in my experience it tends to be used in general in the more metaphorical sense of something comforting or soothing.