Reviewed by annieb123 on

5 of 5 stars

Share
Originally published on my blog: Nonstop Reader.

Essential 3-Ingredient Cocktails is a mixology reference with recipes curated by Amy Traynor. Due out 9th June 2020 Callisto on their Rockridge Press imprint, it's 242 pages and available in paperback and ebook formats (ebook available now). It's worth noting that the ebook format has a handy interactive table of contents as well as interactive links. I've really become enamored of ebooks with interactive formats lately. For Kindle Unlimited subscribers, this book is currently included in the KU subscription library to borrow and read for free.

This is a really solid bar book full of traditional and updated recipes. The recipes are arranged thematically, by main alcoholic ingredient. It also includes an introduction with general directions along with lists of useful bar equipment and relevant discussions on subjects as diverse as ice quality and choosing quality citrus.

Each of the recipes includes an introductory description (and often interesting history), ingredients (US measurements only, no metric equivalents), and step by step instructions. Variations and alternatives are provided at the end of the recipes. Additional historical notes are scattered throughout in text. The recipes as stated in the title, contain three main ingredients, so they're not intimidating to create (and don't cost a fortune in weird ingredients readers will never use up).

Most of the ingredients should be available at any well stocked grocery/liquor store although some might need to be sourced at specialists.

Cocktails are such a civilized interlude and this book includes a solid cross section of 75 (new and old) to build mixology skills and impress one's friends at the next gathering.

Five stars.

Disclosure: I received an ARC at no cost from the author/publisher for review purposes.

Last modified on

Reading updates

  • Started reading
  • 8 June, 2020: Finished reading
  • 8 June, 2020: Reviewed