The Bartender's Guide to Mixing 600 Cocktails & Drinks

Book excerpt: This authoritative guide is an essential reference book for every home bartender, covering a vast array of cocktails and drinks, and how to make them. There are step-by-step instructions for making both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, accompanied by 800 glorious colour photographs. All the cocktail favourites are featured, as well as some more unusual drinks to try. The book features a a comprehensive guide to the different types of alcohol and mixers available, including spirits, liqueurs, fortified wines, beer and wine. Find out how each type of drink is made, its taste and how it should be served. The book also examines the fascinating history of alcohol, plus a useful guide to bartending equipment, glasses, garnishes, presentation techniques and tricks of the trade. There is practical advice on how to prepare for a party, plus useful information about alcohol and health, including tips for safe drinking and avoiding hangovers. The recipe section of the book is packed with step-by-step instructions for making over 600 cocktails and drinks. There are classic formulas of the 1920's jazz age such as White Lady and Maiden's Blush, drinks from the 1980's cocktail revival such as Buck's Fizz and Green Caribbean, and trendsetting concoctions available in bars today such as Cosmopolitan and Titanic. This is the perfect home reference book and one stop sourcebook for all bartenders, both professional and enthusiastic amateur, and its unique photographic approach to more than 600 drinks will mean this is the only inspiration, instruction manual and recipe book you will ever need.