Perfect Cocktails: The Essential Guide

A toast to the cocktail, with its perfect combination of flavors to tempt the palate. No wonder the highball, martini, and aperitif have become stylish again! Teach yourself bartending and sample the delights of cocktails both classic and contemporary. From the ingredients and basic blends to the glassware and garnishes, here's the recipe for mixing distinctive drinks that complement any event. Stock up on indispensable liquors; seasonings and sweeteners; and tools. Then, ladies and gentlemen, start your mixing with a simple Collins, Eggnog, Fizz, Julep, and Sour and move on to the rich Brandy Alexander, scrumptious Black Russian, and spicy Bloody Mary. Relive elegant days gone by with a timeless Champagne Cocktail. Savor a crisp, chilled Gin and Tonic. Feel the tropical heat with a Blue Hawaiian or Caipirinha. With dozens of delicious recipes, plus a glossary of terms introducing you to invaluable cocktail terminology.