Cocktail Chemistry: The Art and Science of Drinks from Iconic TV Shows and Movies

Home-bartender Nick Fisher believes cocktails should be about having fun. In Cocktail Chemistry, he builds on the popularity of his YouTube channel and guides other curious home-bartenders in building an ambitious repertoire of skills through the entry point of famous pop culture drinks, like James Bond’s Vesper Martini from Casino Royale.

Each chapter opens with an iconic drink, then follows with Fisher’s recreation and variations in that same style or technique. After breaking down The Dude’s admittedly basic White Russian from The Big Lebowski, he shows readers how to make an upgraded version with toasted cream—a technique introduced by Sohla El-Waylly for Serious Eats—and homemade coffee liqueur for espresso martinis. 

While layering the flavors in the Pan Galactic Gargle Blaster from The Hitchhiker’s Guide to the Galaxy, he introduces readers to “rapid infusion” using a whipping siphon—a technique discovered by cocktail scientist Dave Arnold. In a chapter on Harry Potter-inspired Butterbeer, fat washing and foam techniques are explored. 

A playful, unpretentious approach to progressing through basic and advanced bartending skills. 

Hardcover, color photographs throughout.