Would you like to better appreciate fine distilled spirits?Whiskey & Spirits For Dummies is your complete guide toselecting and enjoying this family of noble beverages, flavor byflavor. From whiskey, rum, and brandy to vodka, gin, and cordials,this handy reference traces the history of distilled spirits,explains how they are made, and shows you how to evaluate, serve,and savor them. Ever wonder why the Irish spell it ?whiskey? and theScottish ?whisky?? This friendly book tells you as itreveals where the first whiskeys ? or ?dark?spirits ? originated and how they came to the United States.It also explores the origins of clear spirits and the differentvarieties of each. You?ll compare American and Europeanvodkas, see how to make the new and improved all-purpose Martini,and follow the spread of flavored rums across the globe. A slew ofsidebars give you fascinating tidbits of information about thesespirits. You?ll also discover how to: Become a sophisticated taster Shop for the best spirits Select the right mixers Use spirits in cooking Make ten classic cocktails Choose and taste cordials and liqueurs Know the nutrients in one serving of each type of distilledspirit Present spirits to guests Set up tasting events at home This thorough guide also features recipes for cooking withspirits, offering menu choices such as entrees, vegetables, anddesserts that all include at least one type of spirit. Completewith an appendix of craft distillers across the United States,Whiskey & Spirits For Dummies will give you theknowledge and hands-on guidance you need to become a connoisseur ofsuch greats as fine Scotch, Bourbon, and Cognac in no time!