The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks by David A. Embury, 1958 edition

The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks, the classic mid-century drinks recipe book by David A. Embury, 1958 edition.

According to the author, "mixing drinks is a matter of fine art, not of secret ritual.  Many people fail to use top-quality liquor and do not understand that each ingredient has a specific role and that a change in proportions can spoil the drink. But there is hope for all who like their drinks mixed right!"  And that hope lies within The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks.

Originally published in 1948, The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks is an encyclopedia of the 20th century cocktail.  This newly revised and enlarged edition is filled 362 pages containing some 700 recipes as well as the basic principles of making an excellent cocktail, the proper glassware and gadgets, the fundamentals of liquors, liqueurs and mixers, the author's "pertinent pointers" and a section on "picker uppers", those drinks that are supposed to restore and rejuvenate the morning after the night before.

The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks, written by David A. Embury with illustrations by Nathan Gluck, was published by Doubleday & Company in 1958. The book has its original dust cover and measures approximately 5 3/4" x 8 5/8".  There is some page discoloration due to age and some wear to the dust cover.  A bookplate with the name of the original owner is located inside the front cover - how many drinks (and picker uppers) did Mr. Howell Hill enjoy from these many, many recipes?

Everything you need to host your next cocktail party, mid-century vibe or not, is included in Embury's comprehensive book. And, the graphics and colors are classic 1950s. A must for any serious drinker or sipper!