American Bar: The Artistry of Mixing Drinks

This is an excellent book on cocktails, the philosophy of bartending, and the history of various alcohols. I have never seen a better single book for the home or professional bartender. A number of reviewers have already expressed their enthusiasm for this great book, but some have qualified their admiration by quibbling with Schumann over a recipe or two, claiming that the master has "got it wrong" and that they know the "correct" way that a particular drink should be prepared. These reviewers are entitled to their opinions, but I think potential readers of Schumann's book would do well to note that there is no definitive recipe for any sufficiently well-established cocktail, just as no two chefs will agree on the recipe for a perfect omelette. Schumann offers elegant, minimalist versions of almost all of the great cocktails -- what more do you want?

If I wasn't a devouted Christian, Charles Schumann would be my God. This book exudes class, the maroon cover and the black binding make it worth having simply for the pose value. This book is an invaluable fountain of cocktail knowledge, interspersed with Schumann's own advice, for instance with the recipe for Long Island Iced Tea he wryly remarks "I personally never pour vodka and gin together"(funnier in print). If you like cocktails, or simply want to know about them (there is a comprehensive history of varoius alcohols), buy this book.

For all those enjoying a good dinner party where cocktails and longdrinks are essential parts, this book gives you a most comprehensive guide in this category. A book giving simply the best of advice and tips in the field of mixing, shaking or blending drinks. Looks great too!

This is a beautiful book. It is easy written and the recipes are well explained. The images, like the paintings help a lot to make a tasteful cocktail. It is the best written book I've read about this subject.

Herr Schumann's guide puts cocktail mixing on a rigorous, scientific basis. Although some might complain that his style is somewhat didactic, he succeeds in expounding a philosophy of mixology deeper than simply pouring booze together. The drinks listed are numerous and varied enough for interest and experimentation while avoiding exhaustive lists of outdated drinks and variations on a theme. Although not widely distributed, I would rank this as the number one bar guide on the market. The only thing I've seen that comes close is the Savoy Hotel guide from the twenties although that book suffers from a relience on Absinth as an ingredient is many of its drinks. Buy, mix, drink, enjoy.