Reviews

The Drunken Botanist: The Plants that Create the World's Great Drinks by Amy Stewart, Amy Stewart

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sarahetc's review against another edition

4.0

Although I don't recall why I wanted to read this book, it turned out to be something entirely different than what I expected and, as such, tremendously enjoyable. Stewart does indeed talk about alcoholic drinks, but only as a vehicle to explore something like botanical archaeology. Humans have been eating, drinking, fermenting, domesticating, cultivating and experimenting on plants for thousands and thousands of years. And all of those activities tell us a lot about who we are and where we came from.

Stewart's writing is light, quick and engaging. She occasionally gets so deeply into her subject that a layperson might feel a bit out to sea. I did. But skimming those bits doesn't harm any understanding. The book flowed well and was tremendously educational in the most enjoyable way. I look forward to reading and learning more from her.

katel1970's review against another edition

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informative medium-paced

4.25

katiescho741's review against another edition

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5.0

This is a really interesting book about all the plants, herbs, trees and roots that go into making the booze we all love!
As a cocktail bartender, it helps you understand why things taste the way they do, and it gives you some great stories to tell while mixing drinks. There are a few myths busted here too...like the "fact" that Absinthe is poison/illegal.
This book covers everything from beer and ale, to tequila, to wine and champagne.
A fantastic book that I'd recommend to anyone with an interest in cocktail making, or in plants!