Brandy Cocktails by Stuart Walton is perhaps the best quality and best priced brandy cocktail book around. It’s from Lorenz Books who have a reputation for publishing good value books which one will actually use.
Christmas will soon be with us and it’s probable that we will be staying home in small ‘bubbles’ this year. Cocktails will be in order and this book will be welcomed by any brandy lover who has hitherto been limited to a brandy and soda.
Elevate your homemade cocktails
The book starts with the long history of brandy and guidelines to choosing brandy (and there are many styles), bar equipment, glassware and techniques. There are step-by-step instructions on such things as crushing ice, frosting glasses, making garnishes, that will elevate your homemade cocktails to the level of those found in swanky bars.
Cocktails in general have enjoyed a resurgence not known since the roaring 20s. There are dozens of classic cocktails as well as many more which were new to me. If one could learn to make just a fraction of those included here, then one’s friends would be impressed and likely book you for that End of Lockdown celebration party.
A regular chez nous
Each cocktail includes not only the recipe but also its provenance. For instance, the Corpse Reviver dates back to the aforementioned ’20s but there is also a Corpse Reviver 2 – in case the first one didn’t work, I guess. This alternative was invented in the 1970s and is very different. My favourites include the Lemon Lady which takes advantage of sorbet. The Torpedo really does hit the spot. The Sidecar is a classic, and a regular chez nous.
Brandy Cocktails might only be a little book but it’s comprehensive and well-researched. It would make the perfect stocking filler for any budding home barista.
Brandy Cocktails
Author: Stuart Walton
Published by: Lorenz Books
Price: £6.00
ISBN-13 : 978-0754834625