Whisky: The Manual
By Dave Broom
Mitchell Beazley (Octopus Publishing Group), April 2014
$19.99
Spirits author and expert Dave Broom dispels the mysteries of whisky and unlocks a host of exciting new possibilities for the venerable brown beverage. Whisky: The Manual details the history of whisky, with anecdotes such as the decision to dye whisky pink in the 1970s to make it more attractive to women. It traces the emergence of whisky throughout the world—from its introduction to America and Canada through to its arrival in Japan, and provides the essentials of whisky production. The guide also busts a few whisky myths, such as the notion that single malts are better than blends, and that is has to be drunk neat. On the practical side, the book covers what to drink, with details on flavor camps, tasting notes, major, new and international brands, and how to enjoy whisky, including use of water and mixers, and in cocktails.
Mrs. Lilien’s Dessert Cocktail Swatchbook
By Kelley Lilien
Potter Style, May 2014
$14.95
Celebrating a key trend in the cocktail world—dessert-inspired drinks—Mrs. Lilien provides 50 recipes ranging from her signature mix of well-mannered style to down-and-dirty indulgences. The brainchild of graphic designer and stylist Kelley Lilien, Mrs. Lilien is a multifaceted, aspirational brand that combines a chic and sophisticated “Mrs.” aesthetic with quirky cocktails. Like Mrs. Lilien’s 2012 Cocktail Swatchbook, the dessert drinks book opens up like a paint color fan deck. It’s organized by hot and cold after-dinner cocktails ranging from a Chocolate Whiskey Malt and Riesling Rhubarb Slushy to Hot Chai Bourbon Tea and the Toasted Coco-Rum Steamer and many more.
The Old-Fashioned: The Story of the World’s First Classic Cocktail, with Recipes and Lore
By Robert Simonson
Ten Speed Press, May 2014
$18.99
This history of one of the world’s most iconic cocktails includes 50 recipes for classic variations as well as modern updates. The Old-Fashioned covers the drink from its conception in the 19th century through Prohibition to its rebirth in the 1950s and 1960s to renaissance as its place as a star of the current craft cocktail movement. Although the Old-Fashioned’s formula of whiskey, bitters, sugar, and ice seems simple, how you combine those ingredients—proportions, brands, type of garnish—is the subject of great debate. Author Robert Simonson, a New York Times spirits columnist, covers it all in a playful and informative guide.
Back Lane Wineries of Napa
Back Lane Wineries of Sonoma
By Tilar Mazzeo
Ten Speed Press, May 2014 (Second Edition)
$19.99 each
These revised editions of Back Lane Wineries of Napa and Back Lane Wineries of Sonoma uncover hidden gems of the valley: wineries growing grapes and crafting exceptional wines that often only have a local distribution and limited production. These pocket‐sized travel guides have been updated with new destinations, maps, and full‐color photographs throughout, organized by area—including Healdsburg, Dry Creek Valley, Russian River Valley, Calistoga, St. Helena, and Downtown Napa. They also provide essentials like pricing and hours of operation, as well as insight on restaurants, attractions, and accommodations; wine‐tasting etiquette; wine-shipping services and itinerary planning.
Of All the Gin Joints
By Mark Bailey
Algonquin Books, September 2014
$19.95
Did you know that silent film actress Mary Pickford—known as America’s sweetheart—used to stash liquor in hydrogen peroxide bottles during Prohibition? That’s just one of the stories unveiled in author and screenwriter Mark Bailey’s Of All the Gin Joints, a look at America’s iconic silver-screen legends and the decadent, alcohol-soaked world of Hollywood fame and fortune. Illustrated by Edward Hemingway, the book details outrageous stories about film sets drenched in booze, with mini-biographies, ribald anecdotes, memorable quotes and favorite cocktail recipes. Of All the Gin Joints invites readers in to the glamorous party scene of Tinseltown’s history and the drinking that made it shine.