The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Martinis

The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Martinis is the most recent in the "Idiot's" series on the topic of cocktails. This is a mini version of the cocktail books, measuring in at just 7x4 inches and making it a great "pocket" book. Included are over 180 cocktails, all of which are in the "Martini" category - which includes everything from the classics to those fruit medleys and the decadent dessert drinks. This handy little reference book is a good reference for those who are looking for a well-rounded collection of neat cocktails and the size makes it perfect to carry around.

There are typically two types of bartending guides: those for the professional or enthusiast interested in history and the finer points of mixology and those targeted for the beginner. The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Martinis falls into the latter. Written by Hames O. Fraioli with Vincenzo Marianella, this bartending guide is filled with recipes, hundreds of "Martinis" covering every flavor spectrum you could think of in a nicely organized fashion.

From beginning to end, The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Martinis is sure to have a Martini for everyone. Whether you're looking for classics like "the" Martini, the Tuxedo, Waldorf or the Flirtini or the newer tinis like the Butterscotch Martini, Candy Cane Martini or the Garlic Martini, the majority are included. Each recipe has detailed mixing instructions and sidebars about spirits and mixers help the beginner learn some of the advanced facts and techniques of bartending.

The traditional Martini enthusiast will scoff at this book as a monstrosity of the Martini, but I would consider it invaluable to those unaccustomed to the bar who want to begin exploring the plethora of drinks available to them. The bartending basics section is written in the same way - dumbed down but useful and an informational introduction.

Overall, The Pocket Idiot's Guide to Martinis is a great reference tool that has even introduced me to a handful of new drinks and is ideal for anyone interested in the ever-expanding Martini culture. Sorry, no Old-fashioneds or Long Island Iced Teas in this bartending guide - Martinis only.