If you’re just getting into mixing drinks, picking the right guide makes a big difference. We spent some time with Hamlyn All Colour Cookery: 200 Classic Cocktails and honestly, it’s a solid choice for anyone wanting to master timeless drinks.
The book hits a sweet spot between being compact and offering a wide range of recipes. It’s easy to use, whether you’re at home or heading to a friend’s place.
What really pops are the clear recipes and those vibrant photos—they make trying something new a lot less intimidating. We liked that it keeps things straightforward and doesn’t drown you in details.
On the flip side, some ingredient lists are a bit plain if you’re after trendy or unique cocktails. For classics, though, it’s practical and dependable.
Overview of Hamlyn All Colour Cookery: 200 Classic Cocktails
This cocktail guide is easy to use and packed with reliable recipes. There’s a wide variety of well-known drinks, so it works for both newbies and folks who’ve already played bartender a bit.
Each recipe is clear, which means less guessing when you’re mixing classic cocktails. The colorful photos are a nice touch and actually help you picture what you’re aiming for.
Still, some recipes could use a bit more on technique or possible substitutions. The layout is simple, though sometimes you’ll be flipping pages to find what you want.
The range is impressive—200 cocktails, from the famous to the not-so-obvious. If you’re looking to build a broad home menu without stress, this book makes it easy.
Pros and cons:
- + Clear instructions, great photos
- + Wide variety of drinks
- – Lacks some technique tips
- – Recipe order is not very intuitive
Key Features
We wanted something that actually helps us mix drinks, not just a pretty cover. This book stands out with its focus on classic recipes, so you can rely on it whether you’re hosting or just experimenting at home.
Extensive Cocktail Selection
You get a wide range of classic cocktails here, from the familiar to the “wait, what’s that?” The recipes are varied but not overwhelming, which is a relief.
With about 200 recipes, there’s a thoughtful mix—everyday favorites and a few curveballs for when you want to try something new. The selection feels curated, not just tossed together.
Full-Color Illustrations
The photos are genuinely helpful. Each drink has a colorful shot that makes it easy to see what you’re aiming for.
If you’re the type who likes your drinks to look as good as they taste, these pictures help. The book feels lively but not cluttered.
Compact and Travel-Friendly Design
The size is a win. It slips into a kitchen drawer or bag without fuss, so you can bring it along to a friend’s place or even on a trip.
It’s light, not bulky, and the paperback format means you won’t worry about damaging it. That’s a plus if you’re clumsy like me.
Beginner-Friendly Instructions
The instructions are straightforward. We liked the step-by-step vibe—it doesn’t assume you’re clueless, but it also doesn’t throw jargon at you.
Measurements and mixing tips are easy to follow. If you’re new, you won’t feel lost.
Pros and Cons
We wanted a cocktail book that’s actually useful, not just eye candy. Here’s what we noticed after flipping through and testing a few recipes.
Pros
- Easy to follow recipes: Instructions are simple, so both beginners and those with some experience can jump in.
- Compact size: Fits in a drawer or bag—handy for parties or travel.
- Wide variety: With 200 recipes, you get a solid base to try lots of flavors.
- Visual aid: Color photos for every cocktail make it more engaging and easier to use.
- Well organized: Drinks are sorted logically, so you’re not hunting for what you want.
Cons
- Limited modern drinks: Focus is on classics, so don’t expect a bunch of trendy new recipes.
- Basic ingredient lists: Some recipes stick to common ingredients, which might disappoint if you’re after something exotic.
- No detailed background: There’s not much history or storytelling, which some folks might miss.
- Not for large groups: The compact size means not much room for notes or heavy customization.
Customer Reviews
We checked out what other folks had to say. Most found the book reliable and easy to use.
People liked the wide range of classic drinks—enough variety without feeling swamped. The small size made it convenient to carry, which was a win for anyone who likes to mix on the go.
Some wished it went deeper into advanced bartending or had more modern options. But the clear layout and practical recipes made it a favorite for beginners and casual cocktail fans.
Here’s what stood out:
- Easy to follow: Straightforward instructions get mentioned a lot.
- Travel-friendly size: Handy for parties or travel.
- Great variety: Plenty of classics to keep most people happy.
Ideal For Gift Giving
If you’re looking for a gift for someone who likes mixing drinks, this cocktail book is a safe bet. The compact size makes it easy to wrap up or tuck into a bag, adding to its gift appeal.
The variety means it works for beginners and more seasoned mixers. The layout won’t overwhelm the recipient, and the clear instructions make it genuinely useful.
It’s not bulky, so it’s handy for trips or home bars. The one catch? It sticks mostly to traditional cocktails, so it might not wow someone who’s after wild, trendy drinks.
Still, the straightforward approach makes it a dependable gift. The content feels thoughtful without being flashy.
We’d definitely recommend it as a present for anyone who likes to experiment behind the bar.
Frequently Asked Questions
We spent some time with the cocktail book to answer a few things people usually ask before buying. Here’s what we found.
What are some popular recipes from the All Colour Cookery book?
You’ll find classic drinks like mojitos, martinis, and old fashioneds. There’s a good mix of well-known favorites and a few less common picks. Recipes are easy to follow and use ingredients you can actually find.
Where can I purchase a copy of the All Colour Cookery book?
It’s on Amazon and sometimes in physical bookstores, usually in the cooking or beverage section. Prices are reasonable compared to other cocktail books.
Is it possible to find a free PDF download of All Colour Cookery?
No official free PDF versions are out there. The book is copyrighted, so free downloads you see might be sketchy or unsafe. Best to buy a legit copy if you want it.
What are reader’s reviews on the All Colour Cookery book?
Most readers like the clear layout and practical recipes. Some mention it’s a handy size for travel or quick reference. A few wish there was more history or extra tips, but overall, people find it useful for making cocktails.
Does All Colour Cookery come with any special edition versions?
Not really—there aren’t any well-known special or deluxe editions. The standard version has all 200 cocktail recipes, and that’s about it. No extras like online codes or companion apps.
How can I access All Colour Cookery recipes online for quick reference?
There’s no official website or online database where you can just browse all the recipes. Still, you’ll sometimes find folks posting their favorite drinks on forums or sharing them on social media.
If you’re after quick access, honestly, having the physical book nearby is hard to beat. You could also try using a bookmark app to save the recipes you like best.
