Pre-Code Hollywood

Forbidden Cocktails Arrives May 7!

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Friends,

Forbidden Cocktails — my twelfth cocktail book and second with Turner Classic Movies — is out next month. It received a coveted starred review from Library Journal this week. A starred review means “an exceptional book that is essential for most libraries.”

Here is what LJ has to say:

Darlington (Booze & Vinyl) turns from tunes to films in this book of stylish, fun speakeasy-era cocktails inspired by selected Pre-Code Hollywood productions. Pre-Code Hollywood refers to a short period in the early 1930s, before the adoption and enforcement of a production code; it resulted in many bawdy and brazen films. Darlington has curated a selection of 50 films and paired them with inventive cocktails. Each drink is preceded by information about the film’s plot, production history, and themes. The entries are elegantly designed and punctuated with film stills and posters. Impressively, Darlington includes instances where libations are featured in the film, which directly influence the accompanying recipe. The cocktails feature period-appropriate ingredients and techniques and are accessible and creative for mixologists at varying skill levels. The book concludes with a guide to basic techniques and tools as well as an appendix with cocktail recipes of the era.

VERDICT A unique addition to the bar carts of cinephiles and cocktail enthusiasts alike. Film and cocktail enthusiasts looking for more inspiration may also enjoy Eddie Muller’s Noir Bar: Cocktails Inspired by the World of Film Noir.

UPCOMING

Two book launches for two different publishers this spring means I’ll be on both coasts. Forbidden Cocktails starts in New York and Cowboy Cocktails heads west.

LAUNCH PARTY

If you are in the New York area, we are launching Forbidden Cocktails at Porchlight the night before the official release.

WHERE: Porchlight

WHEN: May 6, 6:30PM

GET TICKETS HERE (available soon).

ORDER BOOK HERE

If you are in the LA area, we are launching Cowboy Cocktails at the Autry Museum of the American West May 16th. Get tickets HERE.

ORDER BOOK HERE (thank you to everyone who has posted a review!)

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More Tour Dates will be posted HERE.

COCKTAIL RECIPE

I created the Platinum Blonde for Jean Harlow in Hell’s Angles (1930). With just a hint of elderflower, it is a perfect way to welcome spring.

Thank you for reading!