Top six new spirits books for summer 2016

It’s holiday season – so what better time to start that new book? If you’re looking for inspiration, check out our pick of the top spirits books for summer 2016.

Discover the history behind the iconic Italian cocktail with new book Spritz

As the days and nights are getting hotter, what could be better than enjoying the sunshine and lounging outside with a good book?

And this season, be it for barbeques and cocktail parties or even a tiki-themed event, our selection covers everything from the classic outdoor aperitif to cannabis-infused cocktails .

Click through to discover our round-up of the top new spirits books to hit the shelves this season.

What’s your favourite? Have you read a new book that deserves a spot in our line-up? Let us know in the comments section below.

Thirsty for more? Why not take a look at our Spring 2016 selection of top spirits books for seven more publications to add to your summer reading list. 

Smugglers Cove: Exotic Cocktails, Rum, and the Cult of Tiki by Martin Cate and Rebecca Cate – Ten Speed Press

A must-have for any Mai Tai lover, rum enthusiast or Hawaiian traveller written by Martin and Rebecca Cate, founders and owners of award-winning tiki bar Smugglers Cove in San Francisco. It’s lavishly illustrated with more than 100 recipes, plus a vivid and well-written history of the cocktail style to satisfy any tiki fanatic.

The Arran Malt – An Island Whisky Renaissance by Neil Wilson – Arran Distillers Ltd

For those who like a bit of history with their whisky, The Arran Malt is a delightfully informative account of the story of the Isle of Arran Distillers, which began whisky production in 1995 bringing the industry back to Arran for the first time in almost 160 years. To celebrate 21 years in existence, renowned whisky writer Neil Wilson has followed the growth of the island distillery from fledgling producer to present-day success.

Spritz: Italy’s Most Iconic Aperitivo Cocktail, with Recipes by Talia Baiocchi and Leslie Pariseau – Ten Speed Press

Perfect for those late summer evenings, the Spritz has become synonymous with Italian culture as a bitter and bubbly aperitif. Online drink magazine PUNCH editors Talia Baiocchi and Leslie Pariseau have come up with a book dedicated to the iconic cocktail, taking a look at the history behind the drink with anecdotes and recipes for classic Venetian serves plus modern twists from top bartenders.

Iconic Whisky by Cyrille Mald and Alexandre Vingtier – Jacqui Small LLP

Featuring 1,000 listed whiskies from around the world, this helpful guide should reside on the bookshelves of whisky amateurs or aficionados alike. The book provides superb illustrations of key aromas and tasting notes according to the authors’ own exclusive aroma wheel. Iconic Whisky brings a huge wealth of information including maps of production area, origins of whiskies plus some great food pairings.

Mixology & Cocktails: The Ultimate Guide to Mastering the Art of Creating Mind-Blowing Cocktails that go Beyond the Classics (Cocktails, Mixology, Classic Cocktails, Bartending) by Victor Gantt

For any at-home amateur bartender, Mixology & Cocktails will provide the skills and knowledge needed to hone skills within a matter of minutes. Expert Victor Gantt imparts his knowledge of signature serves and perfect garnishes, as well as a list of 20 recipes to wow even the pickiest of guests.

Cannabis Cocktails, Mocktails, and Tonics: The Art of Spirited Drinks and Buzz-Worthy Libations by Warren Bobrow – Fair Winds Press

For the serious cocktail mixologist or herbal enthusiast, the science and history behind cannabis will make any cocktail a bit more creative. From tonics, syrups, bitters or exotic-infused oil, Warren Bobrow shows readers how to combine cannabis and cocktails for a great afternoon pick–up or after dinner herbal-based drink.