Cocktails Illustrated

A Cook’s Illustrated Deep Dive Into Drinks Mastery

Unleash your inner bartender with this luxe cocktail guide. You’ll learn pro secrets and how to apply them at home: the chemistry of cocktail ingredients, the science of ice and dilution, and how to adjust ratios and techniques to customize cocktails to your palate. Cocktails Illustrated is that rare book—coffee-table gorgeous with hundreds of photographs and illustrations; comprehensive, instructional, and practical; and as fun and playful as a great cocktail. Cocktails is organized around categories including martinis, Manhattans, highballs, sours, nogs, and tropicals and features many zero-proof concoctions as well. The perfect gift for anyone who loves a great pour. Yes, there are snacks too!

"The book is a treasure for its endless kitchen wisdom, heart-filled recipes, and deep-rooted respect for all the generations that came before."

— Epicurious

More from The Book:

Distill Professional Secrets

Techniques, including aging and clarifying cocktails and fat-washing spirits, are made accessible through clear, engaging explanations and how-to photography.

Make Mine Alcohol-Free

Those interested in zero-proof drinks for themselves or their friends will find plenty of new favorite recipes, tips, and flavor-elevating artistry in the mix.

Belly Up to the Bar

The extensive introduction pours out no-nonsense advice on what bottles, tools, and glassware you need, plus clearly teaches methods including shaking, muddling, citrus juicing, ice-making, and more.

A Simple Citrus Peel

Hold a citrus strip horizontal, pith side facing you, near the surface of your cocktail. Pinch the zest to express oils onto the cocktail and then rub the outer edge of the glass with the peel.

Making Gift Tags and Recipe Tags

Handwrite on premade tags or on cut-out cardstock.

Type and print the tag and mount on decorative paper.

Print custom labels and become a food-gifting legend.