Alice Lascelles: The Martini

Few drinks have inspired quite so many opinions—or looked quite so good while doing it.

In The Martini, Alice Lascelles explores the history, rituals, personalities, and endless variations behind one of the world’s most enduring cocktails. From gin versus vodka and shaken versus stirred to the proper proportions, garnishes, glassware, and recipes, it’s an elegant education in the finer points of a deceptively simple drink.

Equal parts history, handbook, and celebration, it’s essential reading for anyone who believes a well-made martini is one of life’s great small pleasures.