Now this, my friends, is a drink book.

I’ve spent so many hours looking through my library searching for that one, secret, cocktail that I could add to the Kaiser Penguin archives. Books were flying on and off shelves like a wizard at work, yet nothing excitingly potable was to be found. Baker seemed to be my only hope, and he turned up a few (coming soon), but not one book held more than a few new tricks. None of them were able bring a tear of delight, that sensation where you know there is no way you can go through all the new, delectable recipes that coat every page in less than a week.

I had been wanting Esquire Drinks for some time. But the book has been out of print, although easy to find on Amazon and other used book outlets. I knew it was highly recommended, yet the ever increasing price turned me off. Granted, this is nothing like Embury’s Fine Art of Mixing Drinks that runs for $100 easily (or Harrington’s Drink Bible for the 21st Century), but it seemed a bit much.

Then I did a Froogle Search.

The third entry on this list piqued my interest. I called them up, and indeed they had new copies of the book for a fine price of $24.95. I immediately ordered my copy (I believe they have seven left, unless someone else has found this treasure trove.)

The book arrived in three days with a sexy cover (save the olive) and packed full of new recipes. I can’t even begin to describe the joy I’ve had this evening browsing through the book, making cocktails, and learning from Wondrich’s vivid and amusing tutelage.

I didn’t get the chance to photograph one of these beauties, but I’ll at least leave you with a recipe.

Chancellor

• 2oz blended Scotch whisky
• 1oz ruby port
• 1/2oz dry vermouth
• 2 dashes orange bitters

Stir with crushed ice, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.

Esquire Drinks, David Wondrich