Are you a Bosom Caresser or a Harvey Wallbanger? Can you tell a Moscow Mule from a Brass Monkey? Can you name Ernest Hemingway's favorite tipple? All the kit, spirits, mixers, famous drinkers, and more than 80 classic and contemporary cocktail recipes are included in this quick-reference that is bursting with information on everything you need to know to mix the perfect cocktail. The fact-packed introduction examines the legends of how the cocktail was invented and tells the story of its climb to fame in Jazz Age America. It then looks at the secrets of mixing a great cocktail and what you'll need to set up your own cocktail bar?what spirits, liqueurs, and mixers to keep stocked up on; what equipment you'll need; which glasses to serve each cocktail in; and how to garnish. Nine drinks-based chapters then detail ingredients, assembly instructions, and presentation for each cocktail, as well as the background of their creation.