FALL MUST-BUYS
Emma Janzen, an editor for beverage magazine Imbibe, takes readers on an in-depth journey through the past, present and future of Mexico’s indigenous agave spirit. With mezcal’s recent uptick in popularity (a nearly 48% growth rate over the last decade), Janzen explores mezcal’s beginnings and its transformation to the spirit we know today. She talks a little folklore while also speaking to the dedication and craftsmanship of the families who have for centuries grown the agave and fermented and distilled its juices. Janzen details the often ancient methods involved in harvesting, roasting, fermenting and distilling the over 50 species of maguey used by small, family-owned Mexican distilleries and how "Big Liquor" is getting in on the game (for better or for worse).
The SFA's cocktail guide fuses fact-based storytelling with recipes based on the South's history and its future as a diverse cultural region. The essays add context to each chapter's cocktail category and discuss the events of the period which surround each drink; including the South's complicated and often dirty past. Look for recipes from Atlanta bartenders Navarro Carr, Tiffanie Barriere, Kellie Thorn, Miles Macquarrie, Paul Calvert and Greg Best.
COMING SOON
Kara Newman, author and spirits editor for Wine Enthusiast, is constantly traveling the country in search of the next cocktail or spirits trend. All of this time spent on the road leads her to some cities with limited bar and cocktail selections as well as hotels with nothing but a mini fridge full of basic booze. In her latest book, "Road Soda", Newman explores making drinks while on the road using only the mini bar or an airplane drinks cart. With the help of some of the country's leading bartenders, readers will learn how to make portable roadies or in-room cocktails using what's on hand in the mini fridge to turn a hotel room into a makeshift, personal bar. The book also includes recipes for tailgating and camping.
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