The Bartender's Ultimate Guide to Cocktails spans the cocktail's curious history-from its roots in beer-swilling 18th-century England through the illicit speakeasy culture of Prohibition to the explosive, dynamic industry it is today. Along the way, readers learn how their favorite spirits are distilled and explore the cultural touchstones associated with numerous brands. Additionally, well-known bartenders from around the country offer up advice on everything, including using fresh-squeezed juices, finding artisanal bitters, and creating perfect cubes of ice that will help create intriguing, balanced cocktails. Finally, Cheryl Charmings compendium of all things cockail features 25 must-know recipes for iconic drinks such as the Manhattan and the Martini, including cultural anecdotes and often-told myths about their origins.