Jerry Thomas Bartenders Guide: How to Mix Drinks or The Bon-Vivant’s Companion

Overview

The Jerry Thomas Bartenders Guide: How to Mix Drinks or The Bon-Vivant’s Companion is a timeless classic that holds a special place in the history of cocktails. Authored by the legendary Jerry Thomas, often hailed as the “father of American mixology,” this guide was originally published in 1862. This book is a must-have for anyone passionate about the art of bartending, whether you’re a professional bartender or a home enthusiast looking to elevate your cocktail game.

Content and Structure

The book is a faithful reproduction of Thomas’s original work and is filled with over 200 recipes, ranging from punches and flips to sours and cobblers. Each recipe provides insight into the ingredients, techniques, and creativity of early American cocktail culture. What sets this book apart is its historical significance—it offers a glimpse into the drinking habits of the 19th century and showcases the foundational cocktails that continue to influence modern mixology.

What You’ll Love

• Historical Insight: The book doesn’t just offer recipes; it transports you back in time. You can almost imagine yourself in a 19th-century bar, watching Jerry Thomas himself whip up a Blue Blazer—a flaming concoction that still impresses today.
• Variety of Recipes: From simple punches to intricate cocktails, the guide covers a broad range of drink styles. Whether you’re looking for something quick or wanting to experiment with more complex mixes, you’ll find a recipe that suits your needs.
• Authenticity: This edition remains true to the original, preserving the language, measurements, and methods of the time. It’s a pure, unaltered piece of cocktail history.

Potential Drawbacks

While the authenticity of this book is one of its strengths, it can also be a challenge for some readers. The 19th-century language and measurements (e.g., “gills” and “ponies”) may require some getting used to. Additionally, the recipes assume a certain level of bartending knowledge, so beginners might need to do some additional research or experimentation to achieve the desired results.

Why You Should Buy This Book

For any cocktail enthusiast, Jerry Thomas Bartenders Guide is not just a recipe book—it’s a piece of history. Owning this book connects you to the origins of mixology and provides you with the tools to create authentic, vintage cocktails. Whether you’re a professional bartender looking to expand your repertoire or a home mixologist interested in the roots of cocktail culture, this guide is an invaluable resource.

Final Thoughts

Jerry Thomas Bartenders Guide: How to Mix Drinks or The Bon-Vivant’s Companion is more than just a collection of recipes; it’s a journey through time. Its historical importance and wealth of recipes make it a must-have for any serious cocktail enthusiast. While the language and measurements may be a bit challenging, the reward of mastering these vintage cocktails is well worth the effort.

Pros

• Authentic historical content
• Wide variety of recipes
• Timeless cocktails that still influence modern mixology

Cons

• Archaic language and measurements may be difficult for some readers
• Assumes some level of bartending knowledge

Purchase Link

Buy on Amazon