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The Cocktail Primer: All You Need to Know to Make the Perfect Drink

by Eben Klemm

DESCRIPTION
A cocktail renaissance is afoot. The martin! revival of the 1990s spawned a drink revolution harkening back to the 1920s, when elegant cocktails ruled the day. It has permeated virtually every watering hole since, and the mojito is now a common offering at even the dive-est of bars.

The original cocktails Eben Klemm creates as master mixologist for B.R. Guest Restaurants in New York City are the talk of the town. Now you can learn to mix like a master with 'The Cocktail Primer: All You Need to Know to Make the Perfect Drink'. In this mixology guide to creating both classic cocktails and modern twists, Klemm teaches people on the other side of the bar how to make drinks at home.

Most cocktail books offer an overwhelming number of drink recipes that do nothing to help the aspiring cocktail enthusiast understand how they will taste. Klemm's philosophy is simple: You don't need to memorize a thousand cocktail recipes; you just need to have a perfunctory knowledge of the basic families into which drinks are divided. Toss in a few bartending skills, a few simple ingredients, some classic recipes, and a few contemporary spin-offs, and you have all you need to know to make the perfect drink for any occasion.

Also included:
• The primary makeup and level of complexity, sweetness, acidity, strength, and refreshment of each drink family
• Setting up a home bar: essential spirits, ingredients, and equipment to keep on hand
• Techniques: how to pour, shake, stir, muddle, and serve
• Entertaining: get out from behind the bar and enjoy your party

The Cocktail Primer lays the groundwork for learning how cocktails are related and assembled. The result is a greater appreciation for the wonderful explorations occurring in bars today, as well as the confidence to become your own personal mixologist and create unique cocktails at home. Improve your home bar, impress your guests, and start cocktailing!

About the Author
After studying biology at Cornell, Eben Klemm began bartending in New York City to pay the rent. His science background, willingness to experiment, and fascination with cocktail culture and history were a good mix. Since then, he has overseen the cocktail program and concocted signature drinks for B.R. Guest Restaurant's fourteen dining destinations, one nightlife spot, and one private event space, including Primehouse New York, Blue Water GrUI, DOS Caminos, Wildwood Barbeque, and 675 Bar. Klemm's cocktails have been featured in The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Food& Wine, Time Out New York, Popular Science, and Playboy. He has appeared on MSNBC, The Early Show, and 20/20.