They break down the drinks into flavour groups and explain garnishes, glasses and equipment required. As breezy as the title promises, this book reminds that cocktails don’t have to be insanely complicated. For the last six years Harrison has sat as a judge for the International Wine and Spirits Challenge (IWSC) where today he holds the role of a Trophy Judge and Chairman across Scotch whisky and spirits. As well as writing for a number of different publications around the world, such as the Telegraph and World of Fine Wine, they also appear regularly on TV and act as judges for the prestigious International Wine and Spirit Competition (IWSC) awards.

The publisher of this book provided free copies of the book to have their book reviewed by a professional reviewer.Whether you have classic or adventurous taste, this guide to easy cocktail creation is the perfect addition to your home bar.

Harrison and Ridley empower amateur bartenders via clear instructions and color-coded notes about which cocktail is most appropriate for which occasion. Joel Harrison and Neil Ridley prove that mixing cocktails at home doesn’t have to be time-consuming or complicated; it’s fun, simple, and affordable!These simple-yet-delicious cocktails are divided into three chapters: No Shake, Sherlock – the easiest to make, requiring little or no preparation, and using standard spirits and mixers; Shake It Up – slightly more complex concoctions that need a quick shake or stir; and Magnificent Mixes – special drinks for the more decadent drinking occasions which require a little more prep, or an unusual ingredient here and there. Between 2012 and 2015 Harrison held the position of Drinks Editor for the The Wall Street Journal India. These simple-yet-delicious cocktails are divided into three chapters: No Shake, Sherlock - the easiest to make, requiring little or no preparation, and using standard spirits and mixers; Shake It Up - slightly more complex concoctions that need a quick shake or stir; and Magnificent Mixes - special drinks for the more decadent drinking occasions which require a little more prep, or an unusual ingredient here and there.

Neil has also co-authored The World Atlas Of Gin, released in September 2019, along with The World Of Whisky in October 2019.Using sparkling wine, particularly Champagne, elevates any cocktail to another level of decadence and sophistication. Second Cocktails aims to introduce home bartenders – from the beginners to the more experienced – to easy-to-make classics as well as inventive twists on some old favourite recipes, with the overriding idea that all drinks featured can be created in next to no time at all. We wanted the drinks to show off different styles as well as the design for different occasions,” adds Harrison.