Out of the Jar. Artisan Spirits and Liqueurs

Creative handcrafted spirits: This book presents an inspiring overview of the best distilleries around the world.

Distilling spirits is an age-old craft that is currently experiencing a renaissance. Today’s young distillers are striking the right balance between tradition and innovation. They are using premium ingredients to create a wide array of artisanal spirits that offer exceptional taste experiences.

Out of the Jar presents a meticulously curated selection of the best and most unusual spirits from small manufacturers around the world such as whiskey from Japan, pastis from Great Britain, gin from the Black Forest, and rum from California. The book also tells the stories behind some of the featured examples. It introduces personalities who are cultivating rare varieties of fruit, herbs and spices; reviving and reinterpreting high-proof family recipes; or labeling each of their bottles by hand. A compelling overview of today’s crafted spirits and those who make them, Out of the Jar is a guidebook for professionals, gourmets, and all enthusiasts looking to enjoy a distinctive drink.

Gin from Berlin, whiskey from New York’s oldest distillery, herbal liqueurs from the Chiemgau foothills: Out of the Jar features a wide array of spirits from small manufacturers and private distilleries that produce regional products using premium ingredients. The revolution experienced over the last few years in the fields of coffee, bread, and craft beer is influencing the production of spirits too. The discerning connoisseur seeks that special drop made by artisanal manufacturers in limited batches. It is a rebellion against the uniformity of the standard product range, as well as an expression of creativity, innovation, and the joy of a good drink.

Out of the Jar offers a selection of the best and most unusual drinks in this category and tells the stories behind them. It reports on historic family-run distilleries experiencing their revival, young lateral thinkers, and wild adventure-seekers on the hunt for extraordinary raw materials and radical outcomes. The book shows the spectrum of possibilities that can result from experimenting with unusual ingredients. The characteristics of different spirits are explained, and insights into their production are offered along with original recipe ideas. Last but not least, these drinks’ witty labels and imaginative packaging are also explored.

Out of the Jar is a guidebook for professionals, gourmet enthusiasts, and people who are interested in craft spirits and liqueurs. Whether at a bar or at home, these sophisticated drinks demonstrate an advanced appreciation for alcohol’s finest; they can be used to create distinctive cocktails or to enhance your cooking. Here’s to you!

Out of the Jar is edited by Christian Schneider and Dirk Mönkemöller, who also publish the magazine The Weekender, as well as Cathrin Brandes who is making her mark as an expert for new food culture.