Southern Cocktails: Dixie Drinks, Party Potions, and Classic Libations

RECENT EDITORIAL REVIEWS: "This little book may just become your favorite hostess gift and handbook." -- Southern Accents "Know someone who has just moved to the South? Hand them this and get them started in style." -- The Charlotte Observer "The book's worth reading cover-to-cover to savor its wit and wisdom, but afterward you'll want to keep it at the bar for quick reference." -- Cottage Living "The writing is so witty and warm--and the photos are ravishing." -- syndicated columnist Liz Smith "Author Denise Gee comes from a long line of Southerners who like to imbibe. Growing up in Natchez, Mississippi, she observed her fair share of Southern belles and seersuckered gentlemen with drink in hand. Eventually, cocktail hour became a distinctly personal and cultural experience for Gee, who set out to share it with others. The result is Southern Cocktails, which recounts the history and traditions of social drinking in the American South and includes some creative and tasty recipes." -- Texas Monthly "The book is a good read, full of fascinating tidbits and fun quotes on aspects of Southern drinking ("Sometimes too much to drink is barely enough." -- Mark Twain) and has easy to understand recipes." -- D Home

I am a Southern transplant who moved from Mississippi to San Francisco, and I am always in search of the nearest and dearest bon vivant who'll appreciate the art of entertaining--and will teach me how to perfect it. This book has ended my search and made my year. Because I have met the best in Denise Gee and her lovely book, Southern Cocktails. I've not only made the drinks (most recently, the beloved 'apple joujou' for friends), but I've also read over and over again what I call fabulous "cocktales"--engaging stories about the drinks themselves. Thanks to Ms. Gee, the writing is as delicious as the recipes she serves up to her readers. There's more than drinks to enjoy here, too; Gee introduces us to some of the best little bites I've ever tasted. And Mr. Peacock's photography is so stunning you'll want to rip out the pages and frame them in your kitchen. Life doesn't get any sweeter than this. Buy this book for your friends' birthdays, for housewarming presents, and for yourself. Your bar--and your parties--will never be the same.

I am a serious cook and frequent hostess with hundreds of cookbooks. This little gem is one I turn to constantly. The drink recipes are wonderful and wide-ranging in ingredients and presentation. The appetizer recipes are fabulous (try the blackeye pea con queso for a true taste of the South), easy to prepare and perfect with a cocktail. I am giving this book to every bride and college graduate who will be beginning to think of doing serious entertaining. We pride ourselves here in the South on the quality of the food and drink we serve to family and friends. This book has added a number of recipes to my repertoire that are always received with oohs and ahhs. I highly recommend it!