Rum Cocktails by Stuart Walton is perhaps the best quality and best priced rum cocktail book around. It’s from Lorenz Books who have a reputation for publishing good value books which one will actually use.
Christmas will soon be with us and it’s probable that we will be staying home in small ‘bubbles’ this year. Cocktails will be in order and this book will be welcomed by any rum lover who has hitherto been limited to a rum and coke.
Elevate your homemade cocktails
The book starts with the history of rum which is indeed a tale of endeavour and even slavery. It is now made in many countries and not just the Caribbean from where it originated. There are guidelines to choosing rums (and they are diverse), bar equipment, glassware and cocktail mixing techniques. There are step-by-step instructions on such things as crushing ice, frosting glasses, making garnishes, that will elevate your homemade cocktails to the level of those found in swanky bars.
There are dozens of classic cocktails as well as many more which were new to me. If one could learn to make just a fraction of those included here, then one’s friends would be impressed and likely book you for that End of Lockdown celebration party.
Packs a punch
Each cocktail includes not only the recipe but also its provenance. For instance, the ever-popular Daiquiri was invented back in the 1890s and named after a town in Cuba. There are cocktails here to suit every taste, time of year and occasion. Yes, I do have favourites, not only to drink but to make. They include the Blue Hawaiian which must be one of the most striking of mixed drinks. The Kingston is made with Jamaican rum, obviously. It’s a gorgeous red colour and packs a punch. A rum Hot Toddy is a cold-weather cure-all but I wouldn’t wait for a dose of flu to enjoy this steamy delight.
Rum Cocktails might only be a little book but it’s comprehensive and well-researched. It would make the perfect stocking filler for any budding home barista.
Rum Cocktails
Author: Stuart Walton
Published by: Lorenz Books
Price: £6.00
ISBN-13 : 978-0754834489