Curated by Gerard Chamberlain, a seasoned New York City mixologist with experience at iconic establishments like Apotheke and Jupiter Disco, Imperial Spirits is a masterful blend of history, craftsmanship, and flavor.
More than a recipe book, Imperial Spirits takes readers on a journey through the origins of mixology, uncovering the fascinating stories behind the spirits, ingredients, and techniques that have shaped cocktail culture. Rooted in the Imperial period (17th to early 20th century)—a time when European empires like Britain and France helped globalize ingredients, aesthetics, and drinking rituals—the book explores how diverse influences gave rise to some of the world’s most iconic drinks.
Each recipe captures the elegance and artistry of vintage cocktail-making, offering both the original historical version and a modern reinterpretation, creating a luxurious and immersive experience for contemporary bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike. With 100+ timeless recipes, Imperial Spirits celebrates the enduring sophistication and creativity of Old-World mixology.
What’s Inside:
100+ Old-World Cocktail Recipes:Â
- Explore a treasure trove of drinks inspired by centuries-old traditions, from the 17th century’s mulled punches to early 20th-century martini variations—each paired with a modern-day spin for today’s bar.
- Historical Insights: Unearth the captivating histories of iconic drinks, their cultural significance, and the evolution of cocktail-making across centuries. For example, the book brings the drama of Jerry Thomas’s legendary Blue Blazer (created in the mid-1800s) to life—a flaming whisky cocktail theatrically prepared by igniting Scotch and sugar, pouring the fiery mixture between two cups, and serving it warm as a visual spectacle.
- Bartending Expertise: Gerard Chamberlain’s professional tips on perfecting balance, presentation, and creativity ensure that every drink is crafted to perfection.
- Essential Tools & Techniques: Learn how to build your own at-home apothecary with bar tools, glassware, and ingredient sourcing tips rooted in vintage charm.
The book itself is a work of art. Designed to evoke the elegance of centuries-old mixology books, Imperial Spirits features:
- A faux leather cover in deep brown with embossed gold details, evoking the craftsmanship of historical tomes.
- Ornate corner embellishments and intricate gold scrollwork framing the title.
- Antique-style typography for the chapter headings and recipe titles, inspired by Old-World engraving.
- Beautifully textured pages with vintage-style illustrations of spirits, bar tools, and ingredients, immersing readers in the history of mixology.
- A gold clasp design motif printed along the spine and edges, giving the illusion of a 17th-century bound book.
