Best Cocktail Books for All Levels!

[@AndersErickson]

What are you reading? 🥃📚 Cheers! Try Kevin's cocktail, the Gentleman's Health, and help him raise awareness for men's health and health related issues 👉 kzbin.info/www/bejne/kIinhop8g9iZZqc Go to my collection for the bottles I use most! 👉 bit.ly/SpiritsCollectionAnders

[@JoshRzepkaMusic]

Love the new setup! I've enjoyed Liquid Intelligence, the Aviary Cocktail Book, The Office Book (small and fun with some classics), and semi recently got The Dead Rabbit Drinks Manual. I'll be checking out a few of the ones you mentioned, thanks!

[@jebujex]

I just got my first cocktail book its called death&co modern classic cocktails.

[@AndersErickson]

@@jebujex a great one to start your collection! 📚

[@AndersErickson]

@@JoshRzepkaMusic good selection!

[@Panda-wd5lb]

I have Death and Co and the Cocktail Codex, I'm also getting Death and Co's Welcome home book. I also have this book called 'The Ultimate Bar Book' by Mittie Hellmich.

[@dimitarapostolov9788]

The ONLY "bad" thing I can say about your videos is that they arrive and then they're over and we need to wait another week 😭 I love the new space and seeing what you and Az went through before shooting a video! Awesome timing with this video as I know now what to tell my friends and family when they ask me what to get me for Christmas! 😄 Cheers and have a wonderful weekend! 🍸

[@AndersErickson]

Thanks, Dimitar! We're so excited to be in the new space! I don't think you can go wrong with any of these books - hope you get one you absolutely love!

[@srtrujillo]

Agreed. I miss when I just discovered the channel some months ago and I had the illusion there was no end to the number of videos available.

[@loriander2]

Honestly, my favorite cocktail book which isn't really a cocktail or recipe book, is the flavor bible. It is an essential if you like creating your own cocktail and wonder what flavors pairs well with other flavors. Most ingredients are listed, explained and a list of other ingredients that it works with. A plus with this book is you can also use it when you're cooking food. Oh if you pair that book with liquid intelligence then you have everything you need to be an mixologist (someone that likes to invent his own cocktail, do infusions/sous vide, make unique syrups and the list goes ob)

[@AndersErickson]

That's a great call - I need to pick up a copy of the Flavor Bible. I've only flipped through friend's copies. Thanks!

[@jamesbmcauley]

I use flavor thesaurus because it fits in my bar bag easier, but I do have a copy of flavor bible at home too.

[@patimbarrato5103]

Just bought 8 of these books you listed, thank you! I’ve been bartending for 4 years now and I need to up my game/knowledge

[@DimitriWithLemon]

Jeffery Morgenthalers The Bar Book is the first book that got me into making more complex and interesting cocktails. Currently reading through the Cocktail Codex

[@Passiekassie]

The Bar Book was my first book when I got interested in making cocktails. A great beginner read! I've read a lot of digital versions of books but I'm probably going to save up to get the physical editions too. Just got the Oxford companion to Spirits & Cocktails for my birthday and wow what a tome! I usually read all my books front-to-back but I'm not sure I can do that with this one haha, really looking forward to all its information nonetheless

[@noahkohn9350]

Anders: “Let me know what you’re reading.” Me: “I’m too busy making and drinking your cocktails to read anymore.”

[@BenSchram93]

Drunken Botanist is an extremely fascinating take on cocktails/drinks. I'd consider it a must read for any bartender or enthusiast

[@bp3986]

Another great video, and love the new studio (congrats!)… but miss the wall clock set at 5:00! Haha!

[@AndersErickson]

I was curious what people would think of the clock missing 🤔 Appreciate the feedback!

[@annehalkyard]

I loved the clock. Wasn’t it in Top Gun where guy says to girl in bar: “you’ve been watching me all night” and girl quips: “there is a clock over your head”

[@matlhound65]

One notable omission that I refer to constantly is Meehan’s Bartender Manual, by Jim Meehan of PDT, Pegu, and other NYC stalwarts. The recipes are often not proportioned the way I learned, but never disappoint and always inform. It’s beautifully photographed and not only inspires my garnishes but also my search for glassware.

[@tddk5461]

Everytime I make a cocktail I need to open youtube, search for your video, pause it and click on the description to find the recipe. So how about you publish a cocktail book of the cocktails you filmed so far? I‘d immediately buy it!

[@LittleLouieLagazza]

"Cocktail Techniques" by Kazuo Uyeda (2010)...It's an English translation of his first book that shares the elusive world of Japanese cocktail-building. There's a balanced emphasis on careful presentation and service techniques to optimize a value-added customer experience. The process is as necessary as the finished cocktail. Ephemeral cocktails vanish--yet the ultimate experiences remain in the memory for the rest of one's days, yes? Best of Times =D

[@KevinKos]

Wonderfully trimmed moustache on the Gentleman's Health! Thank you so much for the shoutout and for helping raise awareness. Cheers, my friend!

[@AndersErickson]

That means a lot coming from someone with such a strong mustache game! Cheers, Kevin!

[@bulbophyllumechinolabium4315]

Looking forward to seeing more of the new studio. I use the Difford's Guide to Cocktails. They have a great website too. They make an easy Jigger that is transparent and makes small measures simple. That book and you rekindled my interest in Cocktails. Now I need more space for bottles too.

[@jacklinton5370]

I’ve got 3 books on the way. Ever since I watched your video on essential spirits - 15 bottles to build your bar all but less than 2 months ago I have been building a bar. Because im in Australia the alcohol has been far more expensive and I’ve spent at least 6K buying glassware , bitters , equipment and spirits. But I’ve been inspired by you. It’s been so much fun , thank you so much. I love all your videos.

[@errantvenatus6732]

My favourite book to pull cocktails from is 'Vintage Spirits and Forgotten Cocktails'

[@johnmangels7944]

I loved this episode, Anders. Perfect timing for holiday gift-giving! I ordered the Savoy Cocktail Book after watching an early episode on your channel and have been steadily making my way through the recipes. I really enjoyed (and learned a lot from) Death & Co.'s first book, Modern Cocktails. And I'm looking forward to their new release, Welcome Home.

[@AndersErickson]

They put out such great reads. Really appreciate it, John! Cheers!

[@oa3114]

And a bottle of Run … will start here … thanks Anders you’re a gem … and congratulations and new studio …🙌🏼

[@abhiramsulur7030]

Thanks Anders!! I’ve ordered the Cocktail Codex and can’t wait to read it!

[@ryanschroeder560]

I really appreciate your channel and how down to earth you guys are, I have learned a lot from you. I think you have some of the best variety of videos and production as far as cocktail KZbin goes. Glad you guys got the new space.

[@robertgrenader858]

It is really nice to see a channel i follow grow and expand. Good for you and Az.

[@niceguyeddie5036]

RAISING THE BAR by Brett Adams and Jacob Grier is an excellent source for all of the classics, and as a guide for BUILDING a bar from scratch. Each chapter adds a new bottle, and opens up about 8-10 new drink that can be made once you add it to your bar. By the end it's about 25 bottles, every one of which connects to at least a dozens different cocktails, so they never have you buying an expensive bottle just to make ONE NEW DRINK. And they get into techniques, ice, glasses, all of that, is a very straightforward, easy to understand way. Can't recommend it enough.

[@MikeGastin]

Congrats on your growth, Anders! Love your channel and have been thrilled to see your succeed. You and Azusa have created something special and deserve a huge audience. 🚀🍸

[@JSOS]

Well done with the new studio. Looks good, and the motorised desk is spot on. I live my cocktails book. It is so lovely to open a book and read instead of browsing on the internet. Death & Co just released a new book. Again.

[@merijndriessen7374]

Seems like I need to make some space on my bookshelf :D I was looking for a good source of information om rum, so I'm definitely gonna look into that one!

[@AugustoVPhotography]

Oh and if I may add "Meehan's Bartender Manual" by Jim Meehan. A fantastic book compromising everything you need to know as a bartender. History, spirits, bar build up, tools, techniques, recipes and way more. This was my first bar culture related book and still is very inspiring! Also wonderfully pictured.

[@seananderson2195]

Love this! In your video you mentioned that one defining book that has a special spot in your heart because it was when you first became interested in cocktails and spirits. I have to say that I have a similar book like that too. The PDT Cocktail Book: The Complete Bartender's Guide from the Celebrated Speakeasy by Jim Meehan. I discovered this book when I first got into mixing drinks and I absolutely love it. Definite recommendation there.

[@richmosley2519]

Oh, and I have been slowly going through Potions of the Caribbean and Smuggler's Cove. Quite excellent, both in history and practice.

[@rustynaild4247]

Anders, what I like about you I think most is a love for your craft. When I go to a bar I always love it when I get a drink and really enjoy it . Through my years I when through so many cocktails, etc, that I really enjoyed. And as I would go from place to place some would be so much better than others. So I would categorize them. Like I would do with food. I am always trying different mixes on my own, even though I don’t have the stuff you have. I have one I make up, I think, it’s mine, is still one of my favourite. But who knows it could be one that has been around for years. 🍹🥃

[@chandaharkins4418]

I'll have to dig around on your channel to see if you have a tour of this space. If not, I'd vote for one. I love displaying my stuff, but I draw so much inspiration from seeing other folks' bars. Especially dry bars. Congrats (late) on the upgrade! I can understand wanting your dining room back. Thanks for the book recommendations. I feel I could go broke if not careful! :)

[@BrunoReisVideo]

I can’t shut up about The Cocktail Codex ever since I got it for Christmas a couple years ago!! It’s the book that truly got me into cocktails

[@AndersErickson]

It's so well done - I don't see a reason for you to shut up about it 😂

[@MrMoney331]

So Glad to see the channel Growing and I like the new Set! Sweet Desk/Table!

[@AndersErickson]

Thanks, Chris! Exciting things to come!

[@Mark_Wood]

Love the new space, but I kinda feel like you asked me to leave the apartment and changed the locks behind me 🤣 Keep up the fantastic work Anders!

[@rocinante217]

Love the new space, Anders! Great to see Cocktail Codex get a mention too in this video. I got a copy a few months back and think it's perfect for the beginner home bartender (which I very much am). A good mix of recipes, techniques, and info on the major building-block cocktails.

[@manuele.itriagom.728]

Great selection! I'd add The Aviary's book. As a choice for more advanced, molecular and experimental techniques

[@BINGBONGHOTDOG]

Can’t imagine friends coming over that didn’t know about your channel, “like I know he’s a bartender but I think we need to have an intervention” lol congrats on the new space, well deserved!

[@slush714]

Would love a little tour of the new studio! Congrats on the channel growing so much. Winter is basically here in MN and am looking forward to diving into all these recipes instead of trying to brave the cold haha!

[@AndersErickson]

I'll have to do a studio tour soon! Thanks, Michael - stay warm up there!

[@LittleLouieLagazza]

Right on! I'm hoping he'll introduce 'one or three' little known regional classics specific to the grand old Scandinavian-American -Great Lakester tradition--and celebrate the best of Americana with the world!

[@eetuli85]

As a starting home bartender, I really enjoy the Cocktail Codex. Lots of recipes, techiques and other useful information presented in a way that excites and encourages rather than frightens you. I give my full recommendation.

[@elaineoldehanhof5834]

Late to the party but SO happy that you made a video about books! The Savoy book is next on my list 🍸

[@ZipZipZipz]

Great and timely video for me! Just picked up my first cocktail book a couple weeks ago, “the cocktail workshop”, and been enjoying it. Need to get a few of the ones you mentioned in the video. Cheers, Anders!

[@hustengutzel]

that page in the tropical is what i love to see

[@mattdougherty6722]

I was gifted a book from 1941 called “Here’s Now” it’s a wooden cover with a ton of older school recipes. I sent you a tweet with some pictures. I googled it and according to what I found, the book is worth quite a bit. Super fun!

[@williamvangundy3358]

I'm starting with the Savoy Cocktail book, but I plan on expanding my knowledge of Tiki for this summer on the patio.

[@lndrvrus]

Nice video and thanks for sharing Kevin's cocktail promoting Men's Health this month. I was wondering where the perpetual 5:00 clock was. Thanks for sharing more cocktail books that I wasn't aware of. Especially the tropical side. I'm surprised PDT wasn't mentioned. Cheers!

[@victorshaffer5633]

Looks like I will be getting some Christmas shopping done from this video!

[@joeschmidt2220]

Great stuff as always Anders. Love that you kept the apartment feel in the new studio, looks wonderful. Would love a Tom and Jerry video in advance of Christmas.

[@AndersErickson]

Thanks, Joe! Cheers!

[@Cale_E]

Good idea! I love making virgin Tom and Jerry's mix for my kids but would love a more traditional "boozy" version for myself! 🍻 Cheers!

[@LittleLouieLagazza]

@@Cale_E +1

[@chrisnormandeau6101]

Great books, a bunch I wasn’t aware of, thanks! I enjoy the PDT book, Bitters, and “I’m just here for the drinks” by Souther Teague

[@Crazy123Nathan]

As a non-drinker, you have definitely put forward a compelling argument to try some of these cocktails. Funnily enough after binging your content for the last week, I was going to comment asking for book recommendations on your next vid, definitely will have to grab a couple of these books. I hope you both have a great weekend, and may the channel continue to grow as it rightfully should!

[@AndersErickson]

Thank you, Nathan! Glad the book video came at a good time for you. Have a great Friday and a wonderful weekend! Cheers!

[@BeedeeEx]

I have a lot of reading to do! Thank you for all the suggestions!

[@PhilippTimokhin]

Anders, congratulations on the new space! Would love to see a tour when you are fully set in! Thank you for book recommendations! Cheers

[@BenLegacyMixTv]

Thank you for sharing this videos. Im also a bartender here in philippines island. I really love to mix any kind of cocktails. Being a Bartender is my passion. Godbless u always sir and also to your family.

[@monika7684]

Wonderful list! I found Vintage and Forgotten Cocktails very useful and insanely interesting. Speakeasy by EO, Savoy and PDT were ones that inspired me in the beginning. Loads of tips and good info on drinks in general.

[@thetalkingbookchannel]

Congratulations. 1 of my favorite cocktail channels

[@CocktailsUnderQuarantine]

Great list of books. Shannon Mustipher's "Tiki: Modern Tropical Cocktails," Smuggler's Cove, and Cocktail Codex are all very good. And I have a soft spot for the "12 Bottle Bar"- the book that put me on my cocktail journey!

[@ymsensam]

I'm so happy your channel grows, wish you all the best

[@Russman67]

Went out and bought the Cocktail Codex for my friend. Now I'm buying it for my own house. Great video.

[@TheSpiritoftheCocktail]

ANDERS!!! Please don't get me started on bottles all over the house!! I had to dedicate a spot in the basement for some duplicates, my wine refrigerator is full of booze, and my syrups are everywhere!!! Great video!!!!

[@polishprince7219]

the same thing happened with my condo with booze pilling up everywhere lol! I like the new studio, it's 95% the same as the other one.

[@ignorantforager]

I recommended it in a previous video, but it fits so much more in this video. You should do you're own cocktail book! I'd be interested in that for sure. Different recipes and some history behind them. Just like what you do on your channel, but in written form. And it would also make referencing a drink that you've made a video about easier. I can't tell you how many times I had to pull up one of your videos and take a screenshot of the recipe that you put in the description just so I can make it. The book would make that process much easier. Congrats on the new space!

[@nicholasturrentine3301]

Thank you for this recommendation of books. I have been enjoying this channel immensely and revisited this episode. I just read “And a bottle of Rum” based on your recommendation. And wow what a fascinating read! I love history books and this one was very enjoyable. Thank you. And thank you for all the content that you put out there it has really upped my cocktail game.

[@ztpeterson]

Perfect gift giving episode! Much appreciated! And the new space looks incredible! Similar vibe which I was hoping for!

[@bessmcneill971]

I have a collection of two so far! Smuggle’s Cove, which I used all summer to whip up tiki drinks, and Drinking French by David Lebovitz, a good education on french vermouth, Suze, Picon and other goodies. I jot a lot of notes in the margins as I work through the recipes!

[@kevinashworth6256]

This was an awesome video, Anders and Oz. I collect cocktail books and had most of the ones you mentioned. The Death & Co. books are some of my favorites. I’m currently exploring tiki drinks (sipping on The Saturn right now) and am thankful for the recommendations. The one book that inspired me in my early stages was The PDT Cocktail Book by Jim Meehan. For bar stories, I highly recommend Last Call by Brad Thomas Parsons. Thanks, as always, for the insightful and fun videos. Congrats on the new space!

[@christianolsen8638]

As a big gin fan I can recommend "The Bartender's Gin Compendium" by Gaz Regan. This book covers everything you need to know about gin and it has quite a few great recipes in back sections. Try "Follow That Black Rabbit":)

[@dieJozvajs]

"Schumanns Bar" was the standard here when I learned the craft and I kept using it ever since.

[@foREVerA7X1426]

Another great cocktail book with a bit of a sense of humor is "I'm Just Here for the Drinks" by Sother Teague. Full of beautiful pictures as well!

[@MrWhangdoodles]

I like the studio! That table is really nifty. I'll have to buy a physical copy of the Savoy Cocktail Book now. Great video as always Anders and I hope you guys have enough space for the booze now! And hopefully with enough room to grow.

[@AndersErickson]

Thanks, Joonha! It feels good to get the bottles off the floor!

[@gregsoucie]

Great selection! I do love my copy of Smugglers Cove. Definitely looking to add to the collection as I learn. "And a Bottle of Rum" is probably next. Great videos and congrats on the new location!

[@Raaaahhhhbbbie]

My copy of the Savoy cocktail book just arrived. I have a lot of work ahead of me!

[@johancaruelle6193]

So great video Anders ! I was just thinking of buying a cocktails book today but couldn't figure out witch one... 😅 Oh, and here a little cheering from France; keep it up ! 😃👍👍

[@edwardmarks4293]

I've recommended And a Bottle of Rum to just about everyone that I know. Love it.

[@kanishksangar3622]

congratulations on the new place, looks good.

[@nataliennyanzi5864]

Honestly? Learning from your videos and a couple of other bartenders :D Thanks man, you're doing awesome job! :D

[@atauby]

Great video as usual, and love the new space! Especially that you kept the look and feel of being in your home, instead of at a bar. Currently reading "Drinking French" by David Lebovitz. It's a great read, gives me a lot of inspiration, and its fun to think about cocktails from the viewpoint of a specific culture! - I can hightly recommend it. Definately getting my hands on the Savoy coctail book next!

[@TheChriszimmer36]

congrats on the studio and thanks for the book recommendations!

[@carl_busch]

I found a copy of Mr Boston at the bar I work at three days ago. Love seeing how drinks where made back than. I have a good handful but you have WAY more than me. LOl Cheers Anders PS LOVE the new studio

[@bifi1977]

I love Schumann's bar as a al in one reverence book but I have to try your recommendations.

[@jimmwagner]

I like the new space. Very much in the same feel of the old place.

[@AndersErickson]

Thanks, Jimm!

[@LikeOnATree]

Anders so happy for you and Az on the new space! Thanks for all the great content!

[@tjwinfield]

Great to see you in the new studio and that things are going so well. Just got settled into a new house and starting my home bar spirit selection, trying to concentrate on local Australian spirits. Some great stuff over here!

[@markf7066]

Congrats on the new digs! Love your videos as I learn so much. Have you done a specific video on shaken VS stirred and how do you know what’s the right method? Would love to learn that as I honestly don’t know (and believe me….plenty of people are unsure 😉).

[@NeverEmTyBottle]

Always looking for more books 📚 the art of mixology is on my shelf and the bartender bible is one of my favorites for recipes

[@CoffeinCowboy]

I love the Vintage Cocktail Book that you mention in the description of the video. There are so many lovely cocktails! And there are a few German cocktail books that I would recommend for those who understand the language 😉

[@MrSottobanco]

Which books would you recommend?

[@scruffylookinlo6241]

Six seconds in, and already, A+ content.

[@alouie001]

You should check out the Flavor Bible book. Even though its for cooking the principles applies to cocktails and may even expand your depth of playing with various flavors.

[@davidcandler3923]

Love the new space! Here’s to you and Az and many more great videos! Cheers! 🥃

[@RichardVStevenson]

Hopefully I can put your cocktail book on my Christmas 2022 wishlist

[@joseramos4537]

Absolutely love your content! Thanks for the knowledge 🤘

[@Betmensirobin]

You just give me Peter McKinnon vibes, but with cocktails :D Love it!

[@adriansaravong206]

Great job pal!! Really love it, u're my best motivation to go to work. Any chance u could make a mocktail recipes video??

[@richmosley2519]

Congrats you guys!!!!!!!!! New space looking super-sharp.

[@bmdfragile]

I am a lover for great books! Definitly going to pick some of your recommendations. Thanks!

[@Russman67]

Thanks. You just found some of my Christmas gifts. Cheers! And congrats on the new space!

[@jamesbmcauley]

I learn a lot from Brad Thomas Parsons books Bitters, and Amaro, and also Kingsley Amis' Everyday Drinking, which is more a look into the much lambasted drinking culture of the post war era. But he's a hell of a writer. Also Flavor Thesaurus while not a cocktail book is definitely great for learning about creating your own cocktails

[@lttrbox]

Great video! There are a lot of books that are already on my shelf, but I want me some Minimalist Tiki now. Congrats with the new space!

[@dominicgerman5908]

Been meaning to pick up Minimalist Tiki! Love the cocktail wonk. Congrats on the new space!

[@aronalber9107]

Oh I needed this. Thanks, Anders!

[@jamesdonaghy6782]

Hey Anders, these all look great, but to be honest, I'm waiting for YOUR cocktail book to come out ;) Love the channel, keep up the great work!

[@ChappysTikiBar]

Kevin Kos has an exceptional moustache 😎

[@teeveegee2428]

Mr. Erickson, my compliments on the new setup! Still has that cosy homely feel to it. Was afraid it might be lost in the move to the new place. Just got the new Oxford Companion in myself.....great dictionary style read (and enough to keep me going for a while). Looking forward to more great video's; new spot, same feel! Always inspiring.