The Martini by Alice Lascelles: A Celebration of an Iconic Drink

Alice Lascelles, an award-winning journalist and cocktail expert, delivers a captivating homage to the Martini in her book The Martini. This timeless cocktail, a blend of dry vermouth and gin, has captivated palates for nearly 150 years. Lascelles reaches deep into its legacy, exploring how this simple yet sophisticated drink has evolved while maintaining its allure.

This book offers an engaging journey through the history, artistry, and variations of this iconic cocktail. Lascelles traces its origins from 1880s New York saloons to modern cocktail bars, showcasing its influence on bartenders, artists, writers, and filmmakers. With 60 thoughtfully curated recipes, the book is divided into sections that cater to every Martini enthusiast. The Vintage chapter revives classic variations like the Flame of Love and the Tuxedo, while Honorary explores contemporary adaptations such as Lychee and Espresso Martinis. For purists, the Classic section celebrates quintessential recipes like the Dry Martini, the Vesper, and the Gibson, while Contemporary introduces avant-garde creations from renowned mixologists.

The book is more than a recipe collection; it’s a treasure trove of anecdotes and insights. Lascelles shares tales from her global adventures, visiting Tokyo speakeasies, Brooklyn dive bars, and luxurious St. James’s hotels in pursuit of the perfect Martini. Readers are treated to practical advice, from selecting the ideal Martini to accompany oysters, to experimenting with ingredients like olive oil, shiso, and jasmine tea. The book even unravels the mystery behind James Bond’s preference for a shaken, not stirred, Martini.

Elegantly designed with vivid photography, The Martini is both visually appealing and richly informative. Whether you’re a seasoned Martini lover or a curious beginner, Lascelles’s expertise and enthusiasm will inspire you to refine your craft or discover your ideal recipe. Stylish, insightful, and endlessly entertaining, Martini is a fitting tribute to one of the cocktail world’s most enduring classics.

Product details

Publisher: Quadrille Publishing Ltd; 1st edition (2024)

Language: English

Hardback: 176 pages

ISBN-10: 1837831351

ISBN-13: 978-1837831357

Dimensions: 18.03 x 2.29 x 22.61 cm