The Curious Bartender: An Odyssey of Malt, Bourbon & Rye Whiskies by Tristan Stephenson

In his characteristically engaging, witty style, Tristan explores the origins of whiskey, from the extraordinary Chinese distillation pioneers well over 2,000 years ago to the discovery of the medicinal ‘aqua vitae’ (water of life), through to the emergence of what we know as whiskey. Explore the magic of malting, the development of flavor and the astonishing barrel-aging process as you learn about how whiskey is made. In the main chapter, Tristan takes us on a journey through 56 distilleries around the world, exploring their remarkable quirks, unique techniques and flavors, featuring all new location photography from the Scottish Highlands and Ireland to Kentucky and Tennessee. After that, you might choose to make the most of Tristan’s formidable bar skills with some inspirational whiskey-based blends and cocktails. This fascinating and comprehensive book is sure to appeal to whiskey and bourbon aficionados and novices alike.

Hard cover.

About the author: Tristan Stephenson is an award-winning bar operator, bartender, barista, chef, journalist, and bestselling author of the Curious Bartender series of drinks books. In 2009 he placed 3rd in the UK Barista Championships, was awarded UK bartender of the year in 2012, and in the same year was included in London Evening Standard’s top 1000 most influential Londoners.

Tristan’s first book, The Curious Bartender: The Artistry & Alchemy of Creating the Perfect Cocktail was published in October 2013 and shortlisted for the prestigious André Simon Award. His second book, The Curious Bartender: An Odyssey of Malt, Bourbon & Rye Whiskies hit the bookshelves in October 2014. In Spring 2015 he published The Curious Barista’s Guide to Coffee (having previously successfully harvested, processed, roasted and brewed the first cup of UK grown coffee from the Eden Project in Cornwall). Subsequent books have covered topics of gin and rum. Tristan has traveled to over 300 distilleries around the world, in over 50 countries, including the Netherlands, Scotland, Mexico, Cuba, France, Lebanon, Italy, Guatemala, Japan, America and Spain.

Tristan is husband to Laura and father to Dexter and Robin. In his spare time he rides a Triumph motorcycle, takes photos, cycles and runs ultra-marathons.