I’m usually generally disappointed with cocktail recipe books. They typically have a handful of useful recipes that a person would actually make, and the rest of the recipes either require obscure ingredients or components that you must Google before you can begin to shop for them.
Drink Me Now is different. Consider it your cocktail assistant, no matter how new or experienced you are with mixing drinks.
Its 336 pages open with instructions that explain the different types of glassware and various mixing techniques, all to help the reader understand the lingo. Each recipe has a list of tools required, plus ingredients, then step-by-step instructions. There’s also a picture to cheer you on. Its attractive photography includes the stylish garnishes that make these cocktails something special.
The book is organized into catchy categories such as “Mid Week Slump” and “Long Day at the Office.” Even the subtitle – 150 Cocktails for Any Emergency – sets the playful tone of this charming read.
The variety of recipes is impressive, and reading this book serves as an inspiration to try these cocktails. There are the classics, some fashionable fruity drinks, iced drinks and (surprisingly) quite a few recipes that include apple juice – which intrigues me. I’ve never considered apple juice as a mixer.
Another component of this well-rounded recipe collection is variety of spirits spotlighted. There are recipes using vodka, gin, scotch whisky, different liqueurs and bitters. One thing that stands out in Drink Me Now is its use of readily available ingredients. Who has time to search specialty stores for mysterious ingredients when you are about to throw a party?
I can also highly recommend this collection as a gift or tool for anyone who works in the wine industry, for two reasons: There are sangria recipes — and sangria is an excellent bridge between wine and spirits — and the variety of flavors and spices contained in the ingredients are excellent palate reminders for anyone who describes wine at a professional (or serious hobbyist) level.
This handy manual, published by Hamlyn, packs a punch at $9.99. It’s small, loaded with great information, more than 50 photographs and has a hard cover – insurance against the occasional over-vigorous shake or splash. It’s available via Amazon.The Kindle version costs $4.99.
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