Does the idea of mixing triple sec with brandy and a dash of anisette make you nervous? Do you reach for a bottle of wine (a mere cork) or a can of beer (just flick the lid) because you're too intimidated to whip up the delicious cocktail you really, really want? Fear no more--help is here to remedy your lack of knowledge and confidence. Salvatore Calabrese, the world's top bartender, knows better than anyone how to concoct delicious combinations of spirits and cordials. And, he has a surprise for you: creating cocktails can be amazingly simple. Calabrese guides you through all the necessary equipment, a glossary of terms, presentation skills (with detailed photos showing how to make a garnish), harmonizing flavors, and, of course, superb recipes. Get out the glasses, shaker, and stirrer, and start preparing a Blue Monday (with gin, Cointreau, and soda water in a highball filled with ice), a classic Bloody Mary for brunch, a Kiss on the Lips (bourbon and apricot juice), or a Manhattan, Negroni, Seabreeze, Tequila Sunrise, and lots more. Try a few.and you'll soon become a master at mixology.

About the Author Salvatore Calabrese has been mixing cocktails since he was a young man working in a bar on Italy's glorious Amalfi coast. Moving to London he quickly established himself as one of the most imaginative bartenders around. He's been Bartender of the Year, Vice President of the UK Bartenders' Guild, and a much sought after expert on Cognac, and the author of the wordwide bestsellers, Classic Cocktails, Classic After Dinner Cocktails, and Classic Summer Cocktails. He is the acclaimed Bar Manager at the posh Lanesborough Hotel, at London's Hyde Park Corner.