Gone are the days when a lonely bottle of Angostura bitters held court behind the bar. A cocktail renaissance has swept across the country, inspiring in bartenders and their thirsty patrons a new fascination with the ingredients, techniques, and traditions that make the American cocktail so special. And few ingredients have as rich a history or serve as fundamental a role in our beverage heritage as bitters.
Author and bitters enthusiast Brad Thomas Parsons traces the history of the world's most storied elixir, from its earliest "snake oil" days to its near evaporation after Prohibition to its ascension as a beloved (and at times obsessed-over) ingredient on the contemporary bar scene. Parsons writes from the front lines of the bitters boom, where he has access to the best and boldest new brands and flavors, the most innovative artisanal producers, and insider knowledge of the bitters-making process.
Whether you're a professional looking to take your game to the next level or just a DIY-type interested in homemade potables, Bitters has a dozen recipes for customized blends--ranging from Apple to Coffee-Pecan to Root Beer bitters--as well as tips on sourcing ingredients and step-by-step instructions fit for amateur and seasoned food crafters alike.
Also featured are more than seventy cocktail recipes that showcase bitters' diversity and versatility: classics like the Manhattan (if you ever get one without bitters, send it back), old-guard favorites like the Martinez, contemporary drinks from Parsons's own repertoire like the Shady Lane, plus one-of-a-kind libations from the country's most pioneering bartenders. Last but not least, there is a full chapter on cooking with bitters, with a dozen recipes for sweet and savory bitters-infused dishes.
Part recipe book, part project guide, part barman's manifesto, Bitters is a celebration of good cocktails made well, and of the once-forgotten but blessedly rediscovered virtues of bitters.

A Field Guide to Whisky is a one-stop guide for all the information a whisky enthusiast needs. With the whisky market booming all over the world, now is a perfect time for a comprehensive guide to this popular brown spirit. What are the basic ingredients in all whiskies? How does it get its flavour? Which big-name brands truly deserve their reputation? What are the current whisky trends around the world? And who was Jack Daniel, anyway? This abundance of information is distilled(!) into 323 short entries covering basic whisky literacy, production methods, consumption tips, trends, trivia, geographical maps and lists of distilleries, whisky trails, bars, hotels, and festivals by an industry insider. Boasting 230 colour photographs and a beautiful package to boot, A Field Guide to Whisky will make a whisky expert out of anyone.

'A handbook of classic cocktails essential to every host's repertoire' Vogue Want to master the art of mixology from home? Of all the skills you might acquire in life, learning how to make exquisite cocktails is the least likely to be a waste of your time. In this classic guide to cocktailing, writer, columnist and founder of 'The Spirits' newsletter - "a book club but for cocktails" - Richard Godwin offers over 200 delicious, inventive and accessible recipes. Beautifully written, laugh-out-loud funny and full of practical good sense as well as fascinating historical snippets, this little book contains everything that an amateur needs to up their cocktailing game - and increase the sum of human happiness. 'Simple to navigate and fun to read, it's the only book I reach for on a Friday evening. The weekend starts here.' Felicity Cloake 'I truly love this book. No one writes about drinks like Richard Godwin - I enjoy his prose as much as anything in the glass.' Marina Hyde 'The best, most elegant and most sparkling' cocktail book' Esquire

Astrology, tarot, palmistry, and other spiritual arts are having a moment-and that includes the spirits we enjoy during cocktail hour. With this deeply researched collection of intoxicating treats, readers will be able to mix a drink that reflects their interests and satisfies their curiosity. Over the course of five chapters, the authors map out esoteric philosophies that have fuelled the dark arts of their times. Each recipe is presented in a double-page spread that includes an engaging history, clear instructions, and original photography. Curious about druids? Try the Oak and Mistletoe, reminiscent of ancient European forests. Into voodoo? Enjoy a citrusy rum cocktail that's finished with Peychaud's bitters from an infamous New Orleans apothecary. If vodka's your jam try the Devil's Daughter, which pays tribute to England's most famous prophetess, Mother Shipton. More than just a collection of recipes, this dive into the occult tells you everything you need to stock your bar and kitchen with, while offering compelling background information on natural ingredients, botany, herbs, and spices-all points of interests that connect the cocktail enthusiast and the practitioner of magic. Whether you're serious about cocktails or the occult-or just getting acquainted with either one-this ingenious blend of mixology and magic will add a drop of mystery to every drink you make.

An innovative, captivating tour of the finest gins and distilleries the world has to offer, brought to you by bestselling author and gin connoisseur Tristan Stephenson. The Curious Bartender's Gin Palace is the follow-up to master mixologist Tristan Stephenson's hugely successful books, 'The Curious Bartender' and 'The Curious Bartender: An Odyssey of Malt, Bourbon & Rye Whiskies'. Discover the extraordinary journey that gin has taken, from its origins in the Middle Ages as the herbal medicine 'genever' to gin's commercialization and the dark days of the Gin Craze in mid 18th Century London, through to its partnership with tonic water - creating the most palatable and enjoyable anti-malarial medication - to the golden age that it is now experiencing. In the last few years, hundreds of distilleries and micro-distilleries are cropping up all over the world, producing superb craft products infused with remarkable new blends of botanicals. In this book, you'll be at the cutting-edge of the most exciting developments, uncovering the alchemy of the gin production process and the science of flavour before taking a tour through the most exciting distilleries and gins the world has to offer. Finally, put Tristan's mixology skills into practice with a dozen spectacular cocktails including a Purl, a Rickey and a Fruit Cup.

This title covers everything from the Singapore Sling and the Cosmopolitan to the Martini, with 565 drinks, juices and smoothies shown in more than 1000 photographs. It is a complete guide to making 565 cocktails, juices and smoothies using spirits, liqueurs, wine, beer, mixers, fruits, vegetables, milk, cream and ice cream. It includes all-time classics such as the Gin Sling, Screwdriver and Buck's Fizz, more unusual drinks such as the Barbarella, Blue Hawaiian and Loch Ness, and luxurious juices and smoothies such as the Humzinger, Iced Mango Lassi and Purple Haze. It features an illustrated directory of all the basic types of alcohol and mixers available, including both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, plus a guide to cocktail-making equipment, glasses and garnishes. It includes a useful glossary of drinks terminology to help you tell the difference between a julep and a smash, a fizz and a frappe, a cup and a punch. This authoritative reference is an essential guide to cocktails, juices and smoothies, and how to mix them. It contains an overview of the different types of alcohol and mixers available: spirits such as gin, vodka and rum; liqueurs such as amaretto, Tia Maria and Chartreuse; wine, champagne and fortified wines; beer and cider; and syrups, coffee and chocolate. It includes classic cocktails going back to the America of the 19th century, drinks from the great jazz era of the 1920s, famous blends that were revived in the 1980s, and the brand-new beverages being drunk in the trendsetting bars of today. Every drink you've ever wanted to try is in this exciting volume.

If you think that tequila can only be consumed as a slammer with salt and lime (with a chaser of the world's-worst-hangover), think again: Dan Jones is about to set the record straight. In Tequila: Shake, Muddle, Stir, Dan introduces readers to some rather grown-up and classy ways to consume this agave-based tipple. Starting with the basic kit for your home bar, and following with the best tequila- and mezcal-makers on the planet, you'll be shopping for your tequila kit like a pro. With more margarita recipes than you can shake a cocktail shaker at, as well as a glut of amazing tequila and mezcal cocktails you have never even heard of, this is a recipe book that will change your drink repertoire for good. Like a fine whisky, tequila should be sipped, savoured and enjoyed. With this in mind, Dan has curated over 40 tequila and mezcal recipes for the home mixologist. Featuring classics (and twists on classics) like an Old Fashioned, Tequila Sunrise and Juan Collins, to glorious new concoctions such as the Teqroni, Tequila Mockingbird and Bloody Maria, tequila will undoubtedly become your spirit of choice. Including recipes for DIY syrups, sours, infusions and more, Tequila: Shake, Muddle, Stir will show you just how versatile this underrated liquor is, and proves there is a tequila-based tipple out there for everyone.

Craft delicious, creative mixed drinks using pantry staples with this essential recipe book guaranteed to satiate any cocktail craving. We all want to be the type of host who can put together a tasty meal or a delicious appetizer for unexpected company by creatively using the odds and ends from our pantry or fridge. That same improvisational approach can be applied to home bartending with impressive (and tasty!) results. Knowing how to enlist the everyday basics cluttering up your kitchen, like condiments, jams, pickles, and sauces, means you can craft inventive, flavorful cocktails on the fly, satisfying cravings and fulfilling your guest's requests. Pantry Cocktails is an organized, easy-to-follow guide that not only includes cocktail recipes but accompanying themed food boards (such as The Warming Hut Board inspired by New Mexico flavors), helpful tips and hacks, and useful pantry suggestions. Recipes include: -A Sushi Mary with the wasabi and white miso pastes in your fridge (from that sushi delivery last week) -A Basil-Cello Frosecco or Ginger-Orange Shrub Shandy from your garden -Off-Season Bellini using peaches from your cupboard You will learn which key bottled spirits to keep in your liquor cabinet, which fridge and cupboard staples you can repurpose, and how to use seasonal herbs from your patio or garden to create outstanding cocktails that are sure to satisfy and impress.

A simple concoction--bourbon, mint, sugar, and water--the mint julep has become a legendary drink. Few people know its history and even fewer know how to properly mix this classic cocktail. Lighthearted, entertaining, and informative, The Kentucky Mint Julep explores the lore and legend of the Kentucky Derby's traditional tipple. Joe Nickell looks at the origins of the julep and the etymology of the word itself, offers a brief history of American whiskey and Kentucky bourbon, and shares some classic julep tales, including Irvin S. Cobb's theory that a disagreement over a julep's ingredients was the real cause of the Civil War. Information on julep cups, tips on garnishing and serving, and reminiscences from the likes of Charles Dickens, Washington Irving, and General John Hunt Morgan give a fun, historic look at Kentucky's favorite drink. The book includes numerous recipes--for classic juleps, modern variations on the drink, non-alcoholic versions, and the author's own thoroughly researched "perfect" mint julep. This delightful book is illustrated with historic photographs and illustrations, a map of the Kentucky Bourbon Trail, and more.

This title provides a complete history of one of the world's most iconic cocktails - now the poster child of the modern cocktail revival - with fifty recipes for classic variations as well as contemporary updates.

Beginning in 17-century Holland, with the creation of medicinal 'genievre', this book follows the global adventures of gin over four dark, decadent centuries of consumption and excess."

A captivating introduction to the world of fine whiskies, brought to you by bestselling author, restaurateur, bar-owner and world-class drinks connoisseur Tristan Stephenson. Tristan explores the origins of whisky, from the extraordinary Chinese distillation pioneers well over 2,000 years ago to the discovery of the medicinal 'aqua vitae' (water of life), through to the emergence of what we know as whisky. Explore the magic of malting, the development of flavour and the astonishing barrel-ageing process as you learn about how whisky is made. After that, you might choose to make the most of Tristan's bar skills with some inspirational house-blends and whisky-based cocktails. This fascinating, entertaining and comprehensive book is sure to appeal to aficionados and novices alike.

Divided Spirits tells the stories of tequila and mezcal, two of Mexico's most iconic products. In doing so, the book illustrates how neoliberalism influences the production, branding, and regulation of local foods and drinks. It also challenges the strategy of relying on "alternative" markets to protect food cultures and rural livelihoods. In recent years, as consumers increasingly demand to connect with the people and places that produce their food, the concept of terroir-the taste of place-has become more and more prominent. Tequila and mezcal are both protected by denominations of origin (DOs), legal designations that aim to guarantee a product's authenticity based on its link to terroir. Advocates argue that the DOs expand market opportunities, protect cultural heritage, and ensure the reputation of Mexico's national spirits. Yet this book shows how the institutions that are supposed to guard "the legacy of all Mexicans" often fail those who are most in need of protection: the small producers, agave farmers, and other workers who have been making tequila and mezcal for generations. The consequences-for the quality and taste of tequila and mezcal, and for communities throughout Mexico-are stark. Divided Spirits suggests that we must move beyond market-based models if we want to safeguard local products and the people who make them. Instead, we need systems of production, consumption, and oversight that are more democratic, more inclusive, and more participatory. Lasting change is unlikely without the involvement of the state and a sustained commitment to addressing inequality and supporting rural development.

60 Vibrant and Versatile Vodka Cocktails Vodka is the perfect spirit that can turn almost any combination of mixer, juice and garnish into a bold and boozy beverage. Clear in colour and crisp to taste, some of the most famous cocktails are vodka-based. From the punchy Moscow Mule and the pink-hued Cosmopolitan, to the sweet-smooth Espresso Martini and the Bloody Mary pick-me-up, this beautifully illustrated book shows off the best of vodka cocktails that are fun and easy to make. In Vodka Made Me Do It seasoned mixologist, writer and cocktail consultant Colleen Graham explains everything you need to know about this versatile spirit: how to make tasty vodka infusions, which mixers blend well and how to create flavourful cocktails for every occasion. Including twists on classic cocktails - from bellinis and punches, to a whole host of delicious martinis - you'll soon be saying; 'Sip sip hooray for vodka!'

Demystify the world of whisky. Whisky experts Nick Morgan and The Whisky Exchange open the lid on the whisky industry, revealing what makes one of the world's simplest spirits just so popular. Everything You Need to Know About Whisky will answer all of your burning questions; from what makes the perfect scotch and how to drink it like a pro to an exploration of distilleries around the world and their fascinating (often scandalous) histories. This indispensable guide is filled with insider tips on finding your new favourite bottle and brewing up the very best whisky based cocktails - essential reading for all whisky fans, novices and experts alike.

The author of Free the Tipple is back with another collection of delectable cocktails-this time a literary mix inspired by the world's most iconic women writers. The fifty recipes in this volume are as unconventional, imaginative, and refreshing as the authors that inspired them. Each double-page spread includes an illustration of one important woman writer along with fascinating background about her oeuvre, personality, and points of literary distinction. And, of course, each profile is paired with a delicious recipe for a fitting cocktail. Pulling from every category-literary and genre fiction, poetry, graphic novels, essays and nonfiction- this book offers some surprising twists as well as old favorites. While each subject could provide hours of cocktail chatter, the recipes themselves are also a unique conversation starter: the Virginia Woolf-a peach-and-mint creation with a modernist flair; the Octavia Butler-an uncompromising blend featuring bourbon and port; the Jia Tolentino-a purple sparkler that puts a cerebral twist on pop culture; and the Mary Shelley-an unexpected combination of the Manhattan and the Margarita. Perfect for literary-themed parties as well as intimate gatherings, this book itself is an intoxicating, lip-loosening brew made of equal parts sophistication and fun.

In the winter of 1920, the 25 year-old Masataka Taketsuru, with his new wife Rita in tow, arrived in Campbeltown, a small town on the west coast of Scotland. With the help of Professor Wilson of the Royal Technical College in Glasgow, the young Japanese had been fortunate enough to secure an invitation to undergo practical training in pot still whisky manufacture at the Hazelburn Distillery, then the largest of the Campbeltown distilleries. Under the guidance of chief technician Peter Margach Innes, Taketsuru was able to delve into all aspects of whisky manufacture. Four months later, he had completed this report. Taketsuru would go on to establish his own company - Nikka Whisky. Today Nikka's whiskies are known the world over, and frequently win awards.

Whiskey lovers will devour this freshand comprehensive guide to everything there is to know about the world's whiskeys, including Scotch and bourbon as well as Tennessee, Irish, Japanese, and Canadian whiskeys. You'll learn about the types of whiskey and the distilling traditions of the regions where they are made, how to serve and taste whiskeys to best appreciate and savor them, how to collect and age whiskey for great results, and much more. There are even recipes for cocktails and suggestions for food pairings. This is the guide no whiskey drinker will want to be without

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With its unique aroma and heady buzz - the perfect accompaniment to even the spiciest tacos - tequila has won its way into drinkers' hearts worldwide. There are few places on earth besides Mexico that have the climate and terrain to evolve the agave plant from which tequila is made, and there are even fewer people who have the patience to wait the seven years or more that it takes 'the tree of marvels' to grow. Tequila is a lively history of this potent and popular drink.Mayans, Olmecs and Aztecs fermented a drink called pulque from the sap of the agave. It was reserved for pregnant women and priests - and their sacrifices. Later the Mexicans began to use distillation to make tequila and mescal and since its humble beginnings as a local firewater, it has exploded into global popularity. Ian Williams visits countless tequila producers, distributors and connoisseurs to tell the story of how tequila started in the agave lands of Mexico, became an icon of youthful inebriation and then developed into a truly artisanal product which today draws the most discerning drinkers. Including recipes for cocktails, as well as advice on the buying, storing, tasting and serving of tequila, mescal and other agave spirits, this book will delight beverage aficionados and anyone interested in the history of Mexico and its unique drinking culture.

Already responsible for giving jelly a 21st-century makeover, Sam and Harry focus their attention on the perennially popular cocktail, the most sophisticated form of drink. But of course with an extra special twist. Bompas & Parr take us on a rollercoaster journey through the wonderful world of sours, martinis, old-fashioneds, punches and highballs. Classics, new interpretations of old favourites and crazy concoctions are all to be expected, but they also provide advice on the all-important presentation, the ingredients and getting the ice just right.

Veterans of successful alcoholic adventures such as Alcoholic Architecture (a walk in cloud of breathable G&T) and the Architectural Punchbowl (a Robert Adam building flooded with 4 tonnes of Courvoisier Punch enough for 25,000 people!), Bompas & Parr are perfectly placed to ensure you create a range of extraordinary cocktail drinks to remember.

Bompas & Parr s paramount aim is to demystify cocktails and produce an easy to use functional cocktail book for the home all you need to do is master a few techniques, assemble a few ingredients and away you go; but as to be expected from them, the recipes walk a fine line balancing their signature, attention-grabbing but considered approach, while offering some predictably unpredictable options. More than 50 recipes are split into chapters on Gin, Whisky, Rum, Vodka, Tequila, Brandy, Champagne cocktails and Punches, with additional chapters covering Cocktail basics; Cocktail techniques; and Glassware.

The Cocktail Garden offers cocktail recipes focused around the flavours and produce found throughout the seasons, all stunningly illustrated by internationally renowned artist Adriana Picker. From summery raspberries and rich figs to citrus and white peaches, apples and pineapples, and infusions using a riot of herbs - basil and thyme, to sage and lavender and other flavours found in the garden. There are drinks for long hot summer afternoons spent among flowers in the garden; wine spritzers for breezy evenings on the back porch; champagne cocktails for celebrations under the apple tree; nightcaps for wintry nights by the fireside; and fruity party punches for that garden party gathering with style.

Toast to the good life with the Red Rocker's best cocktail recipes! Sammy Hagar may be best known as the former frontman of the iconic band Van Halen. His fans know him as the Red Rocker and as the songwriter behind hits like "I Can't Drive 55," "Right Now," and "Why Can't This Be Love." However, music is just one of his passions. Sammy is a businessman, a connoisseur of great cocktails, and the creator of Cabo Wabo Tequila, Sammy's Beach Bar Rums, and-along with his good friend and celebrity restaurateur Guy Fieri-a line of Santo Tequilas and Mezquila. He created Cabo Wabo Cantinas and Sammy's Beach Bar & Grills so people could hang out with their friends and families, have a few drinks, laugh, and enjoy the good times and unique cultures of the places he enjoys most-and the recipes in Sammy's Cocktail Hits: 85 Personal Favorites from the Red Rocker reflect those differences. In addition to bartending basics and cocktail foundations, chapters include: Splash of Aloha! - Hawaii's coolest cocktails Mas Tequila - South of the Border cocktails Sinful Signatures - VIP, Vegas-inspired cocktails Tinseltown Twists with Cleveland Pre-Funk - an original mix of Hollywood and Cleveland's best cocktails Encore - More of Sammy's personal favorite cocktails Enjoy drinks such as the Coconut Mojito, Maui Mama, Tiki Swizzle, Blanco Gimlet, Coco Loco, Coronarita, Santo Oaxaca, Santa Paloma, Brazilian Kiss, Vojito, Strawberry Surf, and Black & Blue Lemonade, and more!

Originally published in 1998. From its contested origins in nineteenth-century California; through its popularity among the smart set of the 1930s, world leaders of the 1940s, and the men in the gray flannel suits of the 1950s; to its resurgence among today's retro-hipsters: Lowell Edmunds traces the history and cultural significance of the cocktail H. L. Mencken called "the only American invention as perfect as a sonnet."