You can call me old-fashioned if you make me an old-fashioned

Warning, you do not have to be over 21 to enjoy this book.  Heck, you don't even have to be a "toper." Toper is English slang for a heavy drinker, author Robert Simonson tells us.  Teetotalers can enjoy this book, too.  The Old-Fashioned is well-written, well-researched, full of wit, pithy quotes, interesting facts and old-fashioned drama.

And yes, it made me want to run out to the store and buy some Angostura Bitters, Bourbon/Rye (test which one I like better), oranges.

Half of the book is history and lore.  The second half has recipes.  When updating a classic, some like to add fruit.  Purists react in horror.  "I know the difference b/w a cocktail and a fruit salad!"  "Take out the garbage!"  The fruit wars.  Spoon wars.

Simonson explains the subtle differences quite well.  Seemingly simple, the size of the ice cube matters.  The choice of bitters and the liquors.  The length of the twist.   It's in the details.  My friend from WI proudly confirmed she wants her Old-Fashioned with brandy.

Drinks have gotten so fancy lately.  Mixology is now revered as such a higher art -- as well it should be.  However, it's so common to see drinks with a dozen ingredients listed that it's refreshing to read about one that is as simple as it is delicious.

Finally understand that line in Don McLean's American Pie -- drove my chevy to the levee and the levee was dry....WHAT!?

drinking whiskey and rye.
Oh yeah.

Totally recommend.

I received this book from Blogging for Books for this review."