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When I was
asked to review this book I thought, Why not? I’ve never read a book on the history of
hip-hop. Boy, was I wrong. Mixology by Holly Rapport is about mixing
drinks—not about DJs mixing tunes. But I thought I’d approach the book as if it were a
challenge—a mountain to climb. I’d start with the first drink and keep going until I
finished off the entire book. That was not such a bright idea.
The first
twenty or so pages were easy. They were just a list of the things you need to have a
properly stocked liquor cabinet. Those opening pages covered what types of liquor to buy,
which garnishes need to be kept cool, the kinds of glasses to keep on hand, and other
good to know stuff. Then I got down to the meat of things in the first chapter.
The book is broken down into chapters based on the type of liquor used in
the drinks. Liquor number one: vodka. I’m more of a whiskey guy, but what the heck—if I
was going to do this, I was going to do it right. The Bikini, Black Russian, and Bloody
Mary all went down pretty well. The Bull Shot was strange, and I’m a little blurry about
the Cape Codder. I have vague memories of the Harvey Wallbanger. From the stains on the
carpet I’m betting that I at least tried to mix up a Velvet Hammer.
Anyway, let’s just say that after recovering I decided to read the book.
I mean to really read it, like I would any other book. It turned out to be a
great supplement to a household bar. It covers drinks using the most popular liquors:
gin, vodka, whiskey, rum, tequila, brandy, and scotch. Mixology also covers
dessert drinks and how to throw a theme party centered on serving cocktails. The book is
brightly-colored, retro-themed guide to mixing adult drinks, and it’s the perfect size to
stand next to the ice bucket on your bar.
It may not be a comprehensive
listing of all the drinks known to mankind, but it’s a good head start. I had a blast
with this book, and you should too—but only in moderation.
