Lew Bryson

Go beyond the glass and discover the secrets behind your favorite styles of American whiskey in this updated, expanded, deluxe edition featuring a faux-leather cover and ribbon marker.Over the past three decades, Lew Bryson has been one of the most influential voices in whiskey—a longtime editor of Whisky Advocate and author of the critically acclaimed guides Tasting Whiskey and Whiskey Master Class. In this expanded edition of American Whiskey Master Class, Lew focuses solely on American whiskeys, sharing everything he’s learned on his journey through the world of American bourbon, rye, and other whiskeys. This approachable book is like a “200-level” class taught by a favorite teacher, with compelling tales (like how barrel aging came to be), insider tips (such as an old taster’s trick for sampling whiskey), and explanations you never thought you needed (like why you can never get a beverage that’s 100% alcohol—and why you should stick to whiskey!).In this handsome edition, you’ll find it all:An overview of the different types of whiskeys, including the rules and identities of each. He also includes information on craft whiskeys, which tend to be more creative and freewheeling than the styles made by traditional producers.Exploration of the key whiskey ingredients, with a close look at the flavor contributions of malt, peat, corn, rye, wheat—even water.Distillation for non-distillers and the beauty of barrels: Whiskey is both an art and a science, and what’s in the glass is affected by things like pot stills vs. column stills, barrel char, and of course, time. Numerous interviews with master distillers, still makers, and other artisans at the top of their field.Tasting notes throughout, including more than two dozen new ones, so you can identify the whiskeys you might want to try next.New and expanded material, including how to decode and decipher rare bottles, new developments in the American whiskey market (notably single malts), new profiles and interviews of “must-know” producers, new photos, and more. Every chapter contains a variety of unique, often behind-the-scenes photography, coupled with Bryson’s master storytelling. And with whiskey as the subject, this is a class where you’ll want to do the homework!

This ultimate guide to Scotch whisky offers an insider's look into one of the world's beloved spirits--its history, production, and traditions--along with tasting notes for more than 200 common bottlings. "Scotch whisky [has an] uncanny ability to transform a mundane moment into something special and memorable." --Margarett Waterbury Scotch whisky is beloved around the world. But for the uninitiated, its diversity can be bewildering. This comprehensive guide to Scotch whisky history, production, and appreciation will help you navigate the world of Scotch with confidence. Along with an overview of its intricate production process and tips for visiting your favorite distillery, Scotch features profiles of more than 200 whiskies, from popular blends to coveted single malts, with a special focus on bottles you're likely to find with ease. You'll also find recommendations for matching the right whisky to the right occasion, from great values for everyday imbibing, to worth-the-splurge options for marking life's biggest moments. Whether you're a whisky newbie, a die-hard fan, or simply malt-curious, Scotch will be your go-to resource for demystifying the greatest of whiskies.

Go beyond the glass and discover the secrets behind your favorite style of whiskey. Over the past three decades, Lew Bryson has been one of the most influential voices in whiskey—a longtime editor of Whisky Advocate and author of the definitive guide Tasting Whiskey. In this book, Lew shares everything he's learned on his journey through the worlds of bourbon, Scotch, rye, Japanese whiskey, and more (yes, there are tasty Canadian and Irish whiskeys as well!). In this book, you'll find it all:An overview of the different types of whiskeys, including the rules and identities of each. He also includes information on craft whiskeys, which tend to be more creative and freewheeling than the styles made by traditional producers.Exploration of the key whiskey ingredients, with a close look at the flavor contributions of malt, peat, corn, rye, wheat—even water matters.Distillation for non-distillers and the beauty of barrels: Whiskey is both an art and a science, and what's in the glass is affected by things like pot stills vs. column stills, barrel char, and of course, time. Numerous interviews with master distillers, still makers, and other artisans at the top of their field.Tasting notes throughout so you can identify the whiskeys you might want to try next.Every chapter contains a variety of unique, often behind-the-scenes photography. And with whiskey as the subject, this is a class where you'll want to do the homework!

**Winner Gourmand World Cookbook Award 2019**"In his new book, journalist Brian Ashcraft digs into the short but colorful history of the Japanese liquor and the process that differentiates Japan's labels from their Western cousins. Plus, whisky authority Yuji Kawasaki shares tasting notes for more than a hundred bottles." —Travel + LeisureJapanese whisky has been around for less than a century—but is now winning all the major international awards. How did this happen and what are the secrets of the master distillers? This whisky book divulges these secrets for the first time. Japanese Whisky features never-before-published archival images and interviews chronicling the forgotten stories of Japan's pioneering whisky makers. It reveals the unique materials and methods used by the Japanese distillers including mizunara wood, Japanese barley, and novel production methods unique to Japan. It also examines the close cultural connections between Japanese scotch and whisky drinkers and their favorite tipples. For the first time in English, this book presents over a hundred independently scored tastings from leading Japanese whisky blogger, Yuji Kawasaki, shedding new light on Japan's most famous single malts as well as grain whiskies and blends. Japan expert Brian Ashcraft and photographer Idzuhiko Ueda crisscrossed Japan visiting all the major makers to talk about past and present whisky distillers, blenders and coopers. Japanophiles, whisky lovers, travelers, and history buffs will all find something fascinating within these pages, including: Tasting notes and scores of every major Japanese whisky brandA complete account of the unique production methods and ingredientsInformation about visiting distilleries in JapanHundreds of color photos documenting the history and modern practices of Japanese whiskyExclusive interviews and previously unpublished personal accounts from leading industry figuresJapanese Whisky not only explains how the country's award-winning whiskies are made, but also the complete whisky history and culture, so readers can truly appreciate the subtle Japanese whiskies they're drinking and buying. Kanpai!

Join international beverage journalist and expert Jeff Cioletti as he explores the tradition, consumption, and production of alcohol on every continent. The Drinkable Globe circumnavigates the planet from the Land Down Under, to the Bluegrass state - and even to Antarctica - to uncover the boozy cultures and concoctions that make the world go ’round.Ever tried soju mixed with beer and Coca-cola? How about making your own onion-infused vodka for a bold bloody Mary? You’ll get to drink along with 130 recipes from exotic brands and renowned international cocktail personalities.

Join international beverage journalist and expert Jeff Cioletti as he explores the tradition, consumption, and production of alcohol on every continent. The Drinkable Globe circumnavigates the planet and uncovers the boozy cultures and concoctions that make the world go ’round. And you’ll get to drink along with 130 recipes from exotic brands and renowned international cocktail personalities.

Pour a stiff drink and crack open this comprehensive guide to everything there is to know about the world’s greatest whiskeys. Exploring the traditions behind bourbon, Scotch, Irish, and even Japanese whiskey, you’ll discover how unique flavors are created through variations of ingredients and different distilling techniques. With advice on how to collect, age, and serve whiskey, as well as suggestions for proven food pairings, you’ll be inspired to share your knowledge and invite your friends over for a delicious whiskey tasting party.

Here's the new and updated edition of the best-selling guide to Pennsylvania's 73 breweries and brewpubs. Beer writer and connoisseur Lew Bryson takes readers across the Keystone State to new breweries and old favourites, recounting the history of brewing and providing full information for travellers. Each brewery entry includes types of beer brewed at the site, available tours, food served, area lodging, nearby points of interest, and the author's 'Pick' of the best beer to try.

This is a guidebook to 23 breweries and brewpubs across the Garden State, from corporate giants to the newest brewpubs. Each entry contains information on types of beers brewed at the site, available tours, nearby points of interest, and an author's pick for the best beer to try. Also included is a history of brewing in the state, a primer on the brewing process, and a section on favourite regional foods.

Lively descriptions of New York's 54 breweries and brewpubs, with a history of brewing in the Empire State and information on types of beer produced at each site, tours, food served, and nearby lodging and attractions. The author, a beer connoisseur, recommends a favorite for each brewery.