Ep 7. The Adventure of the Nutmeg Concoction

Sherlock Holmes and Dr. Joan Watson are back in action once again in Elementary's season three episode seven titled "The Adventure of the Nutmeg Concoction." This episode sees the duo investigating a case that involves a robbery when a group targeted high-end hotel rooms. Even though nothing was physically taken, the pilfered item, in this case, was a batch of exotic nutmeg-based ingredients that could be used to create mind-bending drugs, along with any recipe for other substances that could be made from them. Most of which could be used as highly effective neuro-intoxicants, and illegal psychoactive drugs.

With no physical evidence and a list of possible clients in the city, Sherlock takes this investigation on himself. He begins by following the trail of a known dealer in the area who may have had something to do with the burglary. The trail leads Sherlock to uncover a second, more significant crime that puts him directly in the hands of a powerful syndicate, which he will have to infiltrate to solve both cases.

Meanwhile, Watson is assigned to babysit another consultant, police inspector Thomas Gregson. Although she initially finds the job tedious, she soon discovers that there is much to learn from him. Gregson shares some valuable lessons from his past that will help Watson become a better investigator, adding some character development for her.

The Nutmeg Concoction is packed with the usual twists and turns that make this series such a hit. Fans can expect to see the challenging relationship between Holmes and Watson rearing its head, as they disagree over the best course of action and how to handle some of the investigation's challenges. This also adds more depth for their characters and how they have evolved.

Further complicating matters are hints that their latest foe may be someone with an intimate understanding of the detectives' movements, secrets, and lives. With neither of them quite sure who they can trust, the series' signature edginess is soon on full display.

The episode's title, "The Adventure of the Nutmeg Concoction," is a perfect metaphor for what Holmes and Watson will face. In addition to dealing with the illegal drug trade and the syndicate, there are elements of a far wider-reaching story arc that will be foreshadowed in this episode and resolved eventually.

Viewers may also enjoy the episode's other themes, such as drugs and addiction. It's particularly poignant when you consider Sherlock's past experiences with drug abuse and the parallels he may find in some of his cases. Watson's time spent with Gregson also brings up various questions about loyalty, morality, and integrity in the justice system.

Overall, "The Adventure of the Nutmeg Concoction" is a compelling and well-crafted story that espouses the following core themes in the series; drug abuse, addiction, and trust. It's an essential entry in the Elementary universe, and it keeps building on the great character development and relationship between Holmes and Watson. Fans are sure to enjoy spending 43 minutes with these classic characters as they face off against a powerful and shadowy foe. The episode comes highly recommended, and it serves as an excellent introduction for those looking to get into the show.