Whiskey: A Connoisseur's Guide

On the one hand, this book is referenced by, and a reference for, many of the books that have come out since it was published. On the other, some of the info is quite dated. The value to modern readers is not only in the ownership of this classic, but in owning the standard by which other books on whisky are measured. And of course, the basics covered here- what is whisky, how is it made, what's it made from- are all still correct and reasonably accurate. Just don't think this book references the whiskeys and whisky producers of today.

This book is an excellent overview of Scotch, Irish, US and Canadian whisky. It includes history, production methods and tasting highlights of each kind of whisky. Many distilleries are described, including photographs. Examples of each type of whisky are described along with tasting notes. Very worthwhile book, especially for the beginner.