By: Jenny Castro
Los Angeles, CA (The Hollywood Times) 07-27-26
Originally released a decade ago, sibling duo Andre and Tenaya Darlington have revamped their book, “The New Cocktail Hour“, which features 250 vintage and modern cocktail recipes, along with seasonal ideas and tips for crafting your own drinks at home.
Discussing the expanded edition, cocktail expert Andre Darlington reflected on how much the cocktail landscape has changed over the past 10 years.
“It’s the 10-year anniversary of our first book together, which is kind of wild,” he said. Adding, “A lot has changed because 10 years ago was a very different era for cocktails. Back then, it was hard to find ingredients, and people didn’t have as much knowledge about which brands were the best. So, in the first version of the book, we basically recommended specific brands for every single ingredient. In this version, we have added a lot more content.” The expanded book builds on the original making it an inviting resource for both beginners and experienced cocktailers. In this updated edition, cocktail fans and readers will be delighted to take in new content such as new recipes, and a wealth of new ingredient recommendations that coincide and reflect with today’s evolving cocktail culture. “It’s also a very DIY book,” Darlington added. Further stating, “You’ll learn how to make your own bitters, orange shrub, cinnamon syrup, and just about anything else you might want for cocktails. The recipes are all in there. Making these ingredients yourself is also less expensive, they’re fresher, and they simply taste better.”
Elaborating further, Darlington explains why he believes the updated edition makes the perfect gift for both aspiring and seasoned cocktail enthusiasts.
“I think the book is fascinating for people who are just getting into cocktails because it gives them all the foundations they need. But it’s also valuable for people who already own a lot of cocktail books. It tells the story in a very specific way that I think sets it apart. A lot of modern cocktail books are really just a collection of beautiful pictures and recipes. This book is different because it provides the context, techniques, and stories behind the drinks, helping readers understand not just how to make a cocktail, but why it works.”
Beyond the recipes, readers will also enjoy the historical context behind many beloved cocktails, gaining insight into their origins, cultural significance, and enduring appeal. The book explores how cocktails evolved through pivotal moments in history including; World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the Prohibition era, the post-Prohibition years, and beyond, offering readers a deeper appreciation of the drinks and the eras that helped shape them.
Available now with Hachette Book Group here.
Amazon link.
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