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3.9 AVERAGE
3.9 AVERAGE
slow-paced
Really enjoyed this book. It was a little slow at times but I think that is because I'm not a drinker. But even though I don't drink, I loved this book and really enjoyed the narrator, Brian O'Neill. If it sounds interesting to you, definitely pick it up. You won't be disappointed.
Tells the story of bourbon and how it came to be an iconic American drink. Tells about the changes over the years. Also interesting how much more Americans used to drink. (who knew some of those Puritans could put away so much?!?)
It was interesting and funny at times. (seems like he might have read a few Mary Roach books) Loved hearing the history and the scandals. Would have liked to see more of maybe a chart of which companies owns which alcohols, and maybe some recommendations for different flavors.
It was interesting and funny at times. (seems like he might have read a few Mary Roach books) Loved hearing the history and the scandals. Would have liked to see more of maybe a chart of which companies owns which alcohols, and maybe some recommendations for different flavors.
This is undoubtedly the best book on Bourbon I’ve ever read. Part commentary, part history, it hits the right balance. I cannot recommend this book highly enough to anyone who loves whiskey and wants to know where it comes from.
If I think a book is worth lower than three stars I won't finish it. This gets three stars because I did finish it -- something I'm not sure the editor can say, as the last third of the book is repetitive, unfocused and riddled with cliches. (Can you compare the history of the bourbon industry to a battle between Jeffersonian and Hamiltonian ideals? Sure, but you don't need to do it over a dozen times.) The last chapters seem to exist just so Mitenbuler can bash new distillers (and new bourbon drinkers) for basically the same behavior that distillers and drinkers have engaged in for the last 200 years. (It's hard not to suspect that the distinction between innovative new techniques and gimmicks is whether the author personally likes the results or not.)
The first two-thirds of the book couldn't also have used some trimming, but at least the story there is told in a more straightforward manner. That is, if you don't get lost in the endless names of distillers, brands and holding companies, and the ever-changing relationships among the three. Mitenbuler has clearly done a ton of research for this book, but not all of that research needs to make it on the page. At about half it's actual length, I'd recommend this to anyone interested in bourbon. At it's current length, it's only for obsessives.
The first two-thirds of the book couldn't also have used some trimming, but at least the story there is told in a more straightforward manner. That is, if you don't get lost in the endless names of distillers, brands and holding companies, and the ever-changing relationships among the three. Mitenbuler has clearly done a ton of research for this book, but not all of that research needs to make it on the page. At about half it's actual length, I'd recommend this to anyone interested in bourbon. At it's current length, it's only for obsessives.
Listened to the audio back on the way to Louisville before going to the Maker's Mark Distillery. An in-depth telling of the history of bourbon, with a number of entertaining stories from the beginning of bourbon to prohibition to modern day. It will give you a deeper appreciation for the spirit and the desire to have a finger right away! It can be a bit dense in parts, and there is definitely some repetition, but overall very enjoyable.
Great historical overview of how the industry has evolved and it's ups and downs for whiskey lovers.
informative
lighthearted
fast-paced
3.5 Stars. Really well documented and interesting overview. I like the chapter breakdowns and the subject matter separations. The overall flow was good, and the "name" dropping was well portioned. I enjoyed it.
Good overall history of whiskey in the United States. Well written and researched. The author has a cute way of comparing history of bourbon with music and modern culture.
Would recommend if the subject interests you at all.
Would recommend if the subject interests you at all.