Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails

The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails is the first major reference work to cover the subject of alcohol from a global perspective, providing an authoritative, enlightening, and entertaining overview of this third branch of the alcohol family. It covers drinks, processes, and techniques from around the world, as well as those in the US and Europe, and includes clear explanations of the different ways that spirits are produced, as well as a wealth of new detail on the emergence of cocktails and cocktail bars.

Format: Hardback
Length: 960 pages
Publication date: 04 November 2021
Publisher: Oxford University Press Inc

Since the beginning of human civilization, alcohol has played a significant role in almost every society, as confirmed by anthropologists and historians. However, it has only recently come under the scrutiny of serious scholarly research. The Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails is a groundbreaking reference work that offers a comprehensive and engaging exploration of this third branch of the alcohol family from a global perspective. It stands as a significant addition to the bestselling Companions to Wine and Beer, presenting a groundbreaking synthesis of the world of spirits and cocktails.

The Companion covers a wide range of drinks, processes, and techniques from around the world, including those in the United States and Europe. It provides clear and concise explanations of the various methods used to produce spirits, such as fermentation, distillation, and aging, along with a wealth of new information on the emergence of cocktails and cocktail bars. The book includes entries on iconic cocktails, influential mixologists, and renowned cocktail bars, offering a deep dive into the world of spirits and cocktails.

Spanning from Manhattan and mixology to sloe gin and stills, the Companion provides a comprehensive coverage of the diverse range of spirit-based drinks across the globe. It delves into the production processes, historical and cultural contexts, and the intricacies of their consumption. With its lavish illustrations and appendices, including a timeline of spirits and distillation and a guide to mixing drinks, the Companion serves as an invaluable resource for anyone seeking to understand the contents of their glass.

In conclusion, the Oxford Companion to Spirits and Cocktails is a landmark publication that revolutionizes our understanding of alcohol and its cultural significance. It is a must-read for enthusiasts, professionals, and anyone with an interest in the world of spirits and cocktails. By providing a global perspective, comprehensive coverage, and entertaining insights, this companion sets a new standard for reference works in the field.

Weight: 1610g
Dimension: 186 x 264 x 72 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780199311132