Complete Book of Spirits and Cocktails Book

For many years, spirits were regarded as commodities; drinks that weren't worthy of a second glance. Such an unappreciative attitude is no longer prevalent among the cognoscenti. Today's spirits drinker is faced with an ever-growing range of malt whiskies, small batch Bourbons, premium vodkas and gins, aged rums, fine Cognacs, Armagnacs and grappas. There's even top-end tequila and single village mezcal. Never before has such a large, high-quality selection been so widely available and this rediscovery of the pleasure of a well- made characterful spirit has sparked off a boom in cocktails. Spirits & Cocktails is a comprehensive guide to the world of spirits, cocktails and liqueurs-- from the mystery of their origins to today's international brands. An enthusiastic champion of alcohol in all its guises, Dave Broom takes the reader on a worldwide tour from the malt distilleries in the Highlands of Scotland to Siberian vodka producers; from the silent monks of Chartreuse via the elegant HQs of Cognac producers to the rum shops of Martinique; from cathederal-like cellars of Jerez to isolated stills in the high Mexican desert. He provides a personal evaluation of the classic cocktails in each of the major categories of spirits and concludes with expert advice on the post-modern way to mix 100 of the world's other great cocktails. With detailed information on production methods and comprehensive tasting notes on all leading brands, Spirits & Cocktails is an informed and joyous celebration of the world's most sophisticated aperitifs, most pleasurable digestifs and jazziest party drinks.Read More