Book Review: Spirits Distilled

For generations, consumers didn’t put much thought or concern into the ingredients of food and beverage. It’s only been relatively recently that consumers have taken a real interest in what makes up our culinary experiences. In generations past, imbibers didn’t care to know every minute detail of how their favorite brandy or whiskey was produced. Nat Harry’s Spirits Distilled: A Guide to the Ingredients Behind a Better Bottle is the book that modern consumers want. Harry takes readers on a deep-dive into the plants and fruits that go into our favorite spirits, far deeper than most have ever considered.

Harry breaks down each spirit based on plant, place, and production. When discussing plant, the author speaks to the raw ingredients. This discussion includes a brief history and interesting information regarding fruits and other botanicals. Place involves geography, climate, elevation, etc. How do all of these factors impact the growth of the raw materials? How do the raw materials differ from one place to another? Do the spirits claim terroir? Does a spirit come with a geographical protection, such as bourbon or Cognac? Production discusses any specialized equipment or processes required to create a spirit, such a mandate for a pot still. Spirits Distilled then takes all of these factors and ties them together. Why do some varietals of Cognac grapes require less maturation time than others? How does climate and terrain impact aging conditions? Following the discussion of a spirit, Harry highlights several popular or noteworthy brand representations of the spirit should the reader want to further explore through a purchase. The author also fills these pages with plenty of sidebar factoids and industry lingo explanations.

Spirits Distilled invokes conversation about our spirits that most have never thought to consider. How does climate change impact our favorite spirits? How do we talk about heirloom varieties, hybrids, and GMO?  What does it all mean for drinking? Harry takes this conversation further in also discussing sustainability. Are spirits currently produced in a manner that is feasible for long-term viability regarding social, economic, and environmental responsibility? Harry argues that sustainability should also involve the concept of cultural responsibility, referring to intellectual property rights of the people who have historically made a spirit. In an era of globalization, how does international spirits conglomerate ownership impact the production of a spirit tied to a specific area?

With deeper understanding comes a deeper appreciation for distilled spirits. Spirits Distilled fosters greater knowledge and respect for the libations we enjoy. Nat Harry has succeeded in writing a unique book that needs to exist. Whether you’re an avid enthusiast or someone who works in the spirits or hospitality industry, this is a book that needs to be added to your library. Spirits Distilled is scheduled to be released on October 30, 2024.

A / $35 [BUY IT NOW FROM AMAZON]

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