The Bloody Mary: The Lore and Legend of a Cocktail Classic, with Recipes for Brunch and Beyond

Brian Bartels, beverage director for several West Village establishments including Jeffrey's Grocery and Bar Sardine, presents a comprehensive guide to the Bloody Mary in this hardcover volume. The text explores the drink’s origins, questioning whether Ernest Hemingway or a Parisian bartender invented it. Readers will find sections dedicated to setting up a home bar, exploring original recipes, and examining modern variations. The book also covers practical hosting advice and techniques for creating custom salts and infusions. The volume features over fifty recipes gathered from top bartenders across the United States. These contributions encourage drinkers to move beyond standard vodka bases and experiment with elaborate garnishes. The structure moves from foundational knowledge to specific cocktail preparations, offering a clear path for enthusiasts. It is ideal for those who enjoy brunch cocktails or interested in the history of mixed drinks. It may not suit readers seeking only straightforward mixing instructions without historical context. The final chapters provide actionable advice for parties and ingredient preparation. This approach ensures that the book serves as both a historical account and a practical manual. The inclusion of diverse recipes from various experts highlights the drink’s versatility. Bartels organizes the content to guide the reader from understanding the past to crafting unique versions today.