Raise A Glass Roundup Entering the diverse and intricate world of alcoholic beverages can be a richly rewarding experience, and what better way to do so than through the pages of a good book? In this Raise A Glass Roundup, we’ve gathered together five recently released books that offer a tantalizing blend of history, culture, mixology, and appreciation for everything from fine wines to craft cocktails. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a curious newcomer, these books invite you to raise a glass and savor the stories, traditions, and flavors that make alcoholic beverages so fascinating (and tasty). Join us as we dive into the literary realm of libations and uncork the wisdom within these engaging volumes. I’ll Drink to That! Broadway’s Legendary Stars, Classic Shows, and the Cocktails They Inspired by Laurence Maslon and Joan Marcus I’ll Drink to That! Broadway’s Legendary Stars, Classic Shows, and the Cocktails They Inspired by Laurence Maslon and Joan Marcus offers a captivating exploration of the intersection between Broadway and mixology. The book seamlessly weaves together the rich history of cocktails on the Broadway stage with a collection of thirty clever drink recipes inspired by iconic shows. Laurence Maslon, a renowned musical theater historian, guides readers on this delightful journey, while Joan Marcus’s stunning photography captures the essence of both Broadway and the cocktails. From pre-theater libations to after-show toasts, the book offers a unique twist on classic cocktails, each with a theatrical flair. It’s an engaging tribute to the vibrant history of Broadway and the drinks that have added sparkle to its legendary moments, making it a must-read for theater enthusiasts and cocktail connoisseurs alike. Discovering Yamaguchi Sake: A Taster’s Guide to Breweries, Culture, and Terrain by Jim Rion Jim Rion’s Discovering Yamaguchi Sake: A Taster’s Guide to Breweries, Culture, and Terrain is a unique and immersive journey into the world of sake, focusing on the Yamaguchi region of Southern Honshu, Japan. Rion’s expertise shines through as he delves deep into the history, culture, and craft of sake production in Yamaguchi, a region with a rich and storied brewing tradition. Through vivid descriptions and insightful narratives, he introduces readers to all twenty-three of Yamaguchi’s breweries, providing a fascinating glimpse into each one’s character and best offerings. The book also touches on essential topics such as the role of rice farmers, brewing techniques, and the intriguing debate concerning sake “terroir.” For travelers, a handy sightseeing guide is included, making this book not only a taster’s guide to sake but also a valuable companion for exploring the region’s delights. Illustrated with captivating photographs and helpful sake labels, Discovering Yamaguchi Sake is a great choice for sake enthusiasts, offering a comprehensive and enlightening exploration of a remarkable sake-producing region and the culture that surrounds it. Spirits of the Tarot by Thea Engst Spirits of the Tarot by Thea Engst is a fascinating account of the surprising overlap between the worlds of tarot and mixology. This unique collection of seventy-eight cocktail recipes, each inspired by a card from the Rider Waite tarot deck, invites readers to trust their intuition and connect with their spirit guides in a truly delightful way. Just as tarot readings offer insight and guidance, the included cocktails serve as a flavorful tribute to the wisdom of the cards. From “The Magician’s Magic” to “The Moon’s Shine,” each cocktail has its own enchanting character. Whether you choose to select a single card and craft a drink based on its energy or opt engage in a more extensive tarot reading to decide your libation, this tarot-inspired cocktail companion offers a whimsical and spiritually enriching experience. It’s a celebration of intuition, a delightful homage to the mystical, and a unique way to commune with your spirit guides by raising a glass in their honor White Wine: The Comprehensive Guide to the 50 Essential Varieties & Styles by Mike Desimone, Jeff Jenssen, and Rob Mondavi Jr. White Wine: The Comprehensive Guide to the 50 Essential Varieties & Styles by Mike Desimone, Jeff Jenssen, and Rob Mondavi Jr. is an essential compendium for wine enthusiasts, offering an in-depth exploration of the world’s most significant white wine varieties and styles. From Albariño to Viognier, Bordeaux to Vinho Verde, this comprehensive guide takes readers on a flavorful tour of over fifty grape varieties and blends, providing insights into their origins, characteristics, and ideal pairings. Through engaging facts, expert contributions, and stunning photography, the book paints a vivid picture of the global white wine landscape. A convenient checklist and over 200 captivating photographs help readers to track their tasting adventures, making it the perfect resource to assist in appreciating and savoring the diverse and delightful world of white wines. Wine Club: A Month-by-Month Guide to Learning About Wine With Friends by Maureen Christian Petrosky Maureen Christian Petrosky’s Wine Club: A Month-by-Month Guide to Learning About Wine With Friends represents the ultimate guide to creating a fun and educational wine club with your friends. This sassy and informative handbook offers a foolproof month-by-month plan to make the world of wine accessible and enjoyable. Each chapter focuses on a different grape variety, from still to sparkling, delicate whites to rich reds, providing a structured yet relaxed approach to wine exploration. Beyond the tasting, there are easy entertaining tips, taste-testing advice, and intriguing wine facts. Petrosky also shares expert recommendations for budget-friendly wines, insights into building a personal wine stash, delectable recipes for wine and food pairings, and the latest in wine gadgets. Moreover, the book demystifies wine terminology, ensuring that even wine novices feel confident when selecting and serving wine.