Bourbon and Rye Cocktails | Robert Simonson

Bourbon and Rye Cocktails: The History of American Whiskey in 73 Recipes by Robert Simonson is an engaging exploration of American whiskey history told through 73 carefully selected cocktails. From the earliest days of American whiskey production to the modern bourbon revival, this illustrated book reveals how bourbon and rye whiskey developed and how cocktails played an essential role in their enduring popularity.

The history of American whiskey in 73 cocktails 

Award-winning drinks writer Robert Simonson takes readers on a chronological journey through American whiskey history, beginning in the late eighteenth century and continuing to the present day. The book explores defining moments such as Prohibition, the development of established whiskey brands and the recent rise of craft distilleries. Important figures including Elijah Craig and Abe Overholt are featured alongside legendary names such as Buffalo Trace, Old Forester and Maker's Mark.

From classic cocktails to modern creations

The book features 73 cocktail recipes contributed by leading American bartenders. Readers will discover classic bourbon and rye cocktails, including:

• Old Fashioned
• Manhattan
• Mint Julep
• Sazerac
• Whiskey Sour

Alongside these timeless favourites, Simonson introduces contemporary creations such as the Barrel Hopper with chocolate bitters and cinnamon, Autumn Leaves, a chilled interpretation of a hot toddy, and The Ninth Ward, featuring lime and elderflower liqueur.

More than a cocktail recipe book

What makes Bourbon and Rye Cocktails particularly interesting is the connection between each drink and the history of American whiskey. Simonson explores influential distillers, the development of iconic brands, changing production methods and the importance of cocktail culture in the revival of bourbon and rye. The chronological format makes the book both an enjoyable historical read and a practical cocktail reference.

Written by an award-winning drinks writer

Robert Simonson is an internationally recognised writer specialising in cocktails, spirits and bar culture. He contributes to The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal and is the author of several acclaimed books, including The Old-Fashioned, A Proper Drink and The Encyclopedia of Cocktails. Combining historical storytelling, expertly selected recipes and stylish illustrations, Bourbon and Rye Cocktails is an excellent addition to any American whiskey library.

An ideal gift for bourbon enthusiasts, rye whiskey lovers, professional bartenders, home mixologists and collectors of cocktail books.

Book details

• Title: Bourbon and Rye Cocktails
• Subtitle: The History of American Whiskey in 73 Recipes
• Author: Robert Simonson
• Publisher: Ten Speed Press
• Language: English
• Format: Hardcover
• Pages: 224
• Recipes: 73
• Publication date: 13 October 2026
• ISBN / EAN: 9781984863331
• Dimensions: approximately 15.9 × 21.7 × 2.3 cm
• Weight: approximately 595 g
• Subject: bourbon, rye whiskey, American whiskey history, whiskey cocktails, cocktail recipes, bartending, mixology