We just heard about this interesting new book, great for cocktail enthusiasts.
JAPANESE COCKTAILS: Mixed Drinks
with Saké, Shochu, Whisky, and More
Traditional Japanese Mixology in the
Spotlight as
Renewed Interest in Classic Cocktails
Grows Around the World
Japan has a rich history in spirits and
for centuries the country’s expert mixologists have shown the world a
deft hand at preparing delicious drinks. Today, this tradition is
experiencing a renaissance in the form of classic cocktails that have become
popular around the globe. Now, a new book by spirits expert Yuri Kato and
Suntory, brings the country’s exciting spirits story to life.
Brimming with unexpected and exotic combinations, JAPANESE COCKTAILS
showcases the sophistication, adventure and cosmopolitan sparkle of the
nation’s varied drinks.
Spirits industry expert and publisher of CocktailTimes.com, Kato explores
Japan’s cocktail heritage, collecting more than 60 recipes from classics
to signature creations with a modern twist. A clear departure from
classic American cocktails, the recipes feature exotic Japanese ingredients
like Shichimi Togarashi Spice, Umeboshi, Yuzu fruit and Kabosu juice. In
addition to unique ingredients, Japanese bartenders often use age-old mixing
methods to create cocktails that many Americans might find
unconventional. From mixing tools, to ice and elaborate garnishes, the
craft of the cocktail is very detailed and rooted in tradition. Most
attention is often paid to the garnish, which can demand more time than the
actual cocktail.
Authentic recipes in chapters devoted to
sake, shochu and Suntory’s Japanese whiskies allow at-home mixologists to
re-create such favorites as Saké Eggnog, the Zentini, or the Shiso
Ume Mojito. Yuri’s own original creations are crafted in
keeping with the spirit of Japanese cocktail culture and infused with other
ingredients such as vodka, rum and tequila. New concoctions range from
the Yuzu Bath and Melon Cream Soda, made with premium
Midori melon liqueur, to the Bloody Mari-Chan and
the Red Eye, made with Japanese beer.
“It is a privilege to share my love of Japanese culture and spirits with
others,” says Yuri. “JAPANESE COCKTAILS has been a
wonderful experience and I hope that all connoisseurs of fine food and drink
will find much to enjoy between its covers.”
Teeming with interesting tidbits –
including the history of Japan’s distinctive spirits, tips on finding key
ingredients and sidebars that cover topics ranging from cherry blossom season
and Tokyo’s fashion district, to the Tokyo Dome and Japanese gardens
– JAPANESE COCKTAILS offers a unique glimpse into contemporary
Japanese culture. JAPANESE COCKTAILS was made possible by Suntory,
one world’s leading beverage companies, and is available wherever books
are sold and from www.chroniclebooks.com.
Yuri Kato is a beverage alcohol consultant and has been a publisher of
CocktailTimes.com for more than a decade. She frequently visits
distilleries and judges cocktail competitions around the world. Yuri
inherited her passion for the culinary arts from her mother and uncle, both
chefs, who taught her about Japanese cuisine and spirits. Yuri was born
in Yokohama, Japan and now lives in New York City and Denver.
One of the most admired and respected publishing companies in the U.S., Chronicle
Books was founded in 1967 and over the years has developed a reputation for
award-winning, innovative books. Recognized as one of the 50 best small
companies to work for in the U.S. (and the only independent publisher to
receive this award), the company continues to challenge conventional publishing
wisdom, setting trends in both subject and format, maintaining a list that
includes much admired illustrated books and gift products in design, art,
architecture, photography, food, lifestyle, pop culture, and acclaimed
children’s titles. Chronicle Books’ objective is to create and
distribute exceptional publishing that’s instantly recognizable for its
spirit, creativity, and value. For more information about Chronicle Books,
visit www.chroniclebooks.com.
Suntory Ltd., founded in 1899, was the first company to introduce
Western-style spirits to Japan, exporting a wide range of authentic Japanese
whiskies and liquors to 35 countries, including the United States. Made
with exceptional quality ingredients, these include Midori Melon Liqueur,
Yamazaki Single Malt Whisky, Hibiki 12 Year Old Blended Whisky, Zen Green Tea
Liqueur and Kuromaru Shochu, Japan’s traditional distilled spirit.
With its head office in Osaka, Suntory Group comprises 170 companies operating
in 17 countries.
# # #
JAPANESE COCKTAILS,
Mixed Drinks with Saké, Shochu, Whisky
and More
Chronicle Books
ISBN 978-0-8118-7511-0
$14.95 U.S.
Try this recipe from the book, and order your copy today! JAPANESE
COCKTAILS will be
available for $14.95 on amazon.com beginning February 17th and in
stores in late March.
Echo Julep (p. 69)
2 oz (60 ml) HIBIKI 12
Year Old
6 Fresh Mint Leaves
1 tsp (5 ml) Gum Syrup
Crushed Ice
½ oz (15 ml) Yuzu juice
Fresh Mint Sprig for
Garnish
Muddle mint leaves with
gum syrup in a silver julep cup. Fill cup with crushed ice, add whisky and Yuzu
Juice, and stir. Garnish with mint sprig and serve.
