80 classic cocktails are included here, along with 80 exciting modern twists on each - let your Kir Royale become a Kitsch Revolt. From Tequila Twisters to Champagne Mimosas, there is something to tickle everyone's tastebuds. Tips, terms, techniques, advice on types of glasses and easy-to-follow instructions ensure that every drink is a success! Did you know that the Brandy Sidecar was created at the Paris Ritz? Or that the Vodka Martini is also known as a Kangeroo? Delight your guests with the fascinating history of each classic cocktail.
Table of Contents
Introduction 6; Ingredients 10; Decorations 11; Terms and techniques 12; Glasses 14; Vodka 16; An old Russian saying states that vodka is only drunk for a reason and if you have a bottle of vodka, you will always find a reason, Drunk as a shot or as a cocktail you cannot go wrong.; Includes: Black Russian twist Dark Knight; Moscow Mule twist Mexican Mule; Gin 38; Originally devised as an antidote to common ailments early gin was known as genever and goes back over 400 years. Today gin and tonic before dinner has become an institution.; Includes: French 75 twist French 66; White Lady twist Lady of Leisure; Tequila 60; Tequila is distilled from the agave plant and dates back to the Aztecs. Once native to Mexico it has gained International popularity and the cocktails it makes are exciting and delicious.; Includes: Margarita twist Passion Fruit Margarita; Silk Stockings twist Thigh High; Brandy 76; Eaux de vie, some would say, should only be drunk by itself. However it has established itself as second to none when mixed with the right ingredients.; Includes: Brandy Alexander twist Jaffa; Metropolitan twist Big City Dog; Brandy Crusta twist Rum Crusta; Rum 96; Made from sugarcanes, a drink for the plantation workers to ease their appaling conditions. Rum has since become a firm favourite all over the world.; Includes: Cuba Libre twist First the Money; Daquiri twist Frozen Mango and Mint Spiced Daquiri; Whisky 114; It is thought that whisky production dates back until the 12th century. Some die-hard whisky drinkers would argue that it is sacrilege to add a mixer to whisky but the cocktails in this chapter prove differently.; Includes: Rusty Nail twist Silky Pin; Manhattan twist St Clement's Manhattan; Champagne 138; Perfect for that special occasion and guaranteed to get every party swinging!; Includes: Champagne Classic twist The Classic's Classic; Mimosa twist Grandaddy Mimosa; Other Spirits 152; A mixed bag of spirits including cachaca from Brazil, Midori from Japan and Frangelico a delicious hazelnut liqueur.; Includes: Long Island Ice Tea twist Camber Sands Iced Tea; Caipirinha twist Kiwi Caipiroska; Index and Acknowledgements 176.
Author Biography
Allan Gage developed his cocktail skills while travelling around Australia. He now manages a thriving cocktail bar in London, where he is continually working with flavours to create new drinks. He is the author of many cocktails books including best selling Around the World in 80 Bars.
