"Cocktails From the Road: A Post-Modern Gypsy's Guide to Mobile Mixology" is a captivating blend of travelogue, cocktail recipe book, and mixology guide. This unique offering takes readers on a spirited journey across America, all from the perspective of a wandering cocktail enthusiast traveling in a vibrantly painted camper van named Priscilla.
The book's narrative weaves together the author's cross-country adventures with an exploration of regional drinking cultures, local ingredients, and the art of crafting cocktails on the go. It's an invitation to readers to experience America through its diverse flavors, one drink at a time.
Beginning with an introduction that sets the stage for the journey, the book quickly dives into the world of spirits. Each major category - vodka, gin, rum, tequila, whiskey, and brandy - is explored not just for its qualities in cocktails, but for how it connects to different travel experiences and American regions. This section provides a solid foundation for understanding the building blocks of cocktails while simultaneously painting a picture of America's varied landscapes and cultures.
The author then takes readers on a deep dive into liqueurs and fortified wines, offering both historical context and practical application in cocktail creation. This segues into chapters on classic cocktails and contemporary creations, each recipe accompanied by a story that ties it to a specific place or moment in the author's travels. These narratives bring each drink to life, transforming them from mere recipes into liquid souvenirs of adventures had and places explored.
Recognizing that America's seasons greatly influence both travel experiences and drinking preferences, the book includes a section on seasonal cocktails. Here, readers will find refreshing concoctions perfect for hot summer road trips alongside warming drinks ideal for cozy nights in mountain cabins.
In a nod to changing drinking habits and the need for inclusivity, the author dedicates a full chapter to non-alcoholic cocktails. These "mocktails" are crafted with the same care and complexity as their spirited counterparts, ensuring that non-drinkers can also enjoy a taste of the journey.
One of the book's standout features is its section on creating syrups, bitters, and infusions on the road. This chapter empowers readers to capture the essence of their own travels in bottle form, providing techniques for infusing local ingredients into spirits and creating unique flavors that serve as liquid mementos of their journeys.