Donna Sanders is the Assoc. Producer, Food Editor, and official photographer for the network TV, YouTube and National Ag In The Classroom show Where The Food Comes From. Her work can be seen on the WTFCF website and in periodicals throughout the U.S. Prior to joining WTFCF, Donna was a career nurse and nursing instructor in Tampa, Fl. In her free time she enjoys a good book, cooking, and her five grandchildren
Heat domes, microbursts, and record temperatures have been a part of the summer of 2026 worldwide. Living in the Tampa Bay Area we experienced it all and frankly I can’t wait for it to be over! Talk about the dog days of summer. But what does this have to do with a cookbook review? It’s simply a total juxtaposition to the apres-ski (uh, after skiing, which I know is hard to even think about right now) state-of-mind.
Gibbs Smith Books’ new Alpine Cocktails will transport you from the dog days of summer right to the chilly and cold weather that some of us may be looking forward to. With 75 cocktails, mocktails, spritzes, and hot beverages I am sure there is something to tantalize the tastebuds from the pickiest to the most adventurous person on your guest list. And don’t worry about over-doing it — there are also recipes for some amazing dishes to enjoy with or after your cocktails.
Author: Allyson Reedy
As author Allyson Reedy states, “Apres-ski is a state of mind. A cozy… wintry state of mind.” Sounds pretty good. In her introduction Allyson creates visions of snow-capped mountains, crackling fires, and friends coming together. And to her point a great cocktail in hand brings it all together. I can totally envision sitting curled up by a fire beside my honey with a glass or copper mug in hand featuring one of these amazing recipes.
Allyson has gathered recipes from highly qualified mixologists and bartenders across the United States, Canada, Brazil, and Switzerland. A true testament to how important a good beverage is.
Image: Chip Carter
Many recipes call for different types of syrups. But no worries the cookbook has you covered. Instructions are provided for 11 different syrups all made from a simple syrup base and even more within the ingredient list for certain drinks.
The Tipsy Carrot – Image: Greg McBoat
But be careful some may get a bit intense! The Tipsy Carrot is deemed a margarita mountain-style. Made with tequila, fresh carrot juice and chili syrup – using jalapeno peppers and Fresno Chile – sounds intriguing for those who like it spicy.
Matcha Mint Garden & Tonic – Image: Greg McBoat
Need to feel your drink is healthy? Look no further than the Matcha Mint Garden & Tonic. Intrigued? This recipe calls for unsweetened matcha powder – a green tea loaded with antioxidants – and green juice. But fear not. The disclaimer according to Alpine Cocktails is, “the simple mint syrup and gin makes it delicious.” Personally, I am not that brave.
As with any quality cookbook, Allyson supplies an equipment list with a brief description. But the bonus is in the recipe where it lets you know which glass or mug is best for your beverage of choice. I do like that – glassware can get a bit confusing.
The recipes are simple and most call for five ingredients and a shaker. Ingredients can be found at the grocery or liquor store, but for the more exotic you may have to search specialty stores or shop online.
One of many recipes I plan on trying is the Winter Sangria. Let’s face it, Florida hardly ever gets cold but the thought of a chilled sangria featuring wonderful autumn flavors – brandy, oranges, apples, and cinnamon – is very appealing.
Another recipe I kept going back to is Kado. I can’t quite figure out if should be categorized as a drink or dessert. Aged rum, hazelnut liqueur, coffee liqueur and espresso set the stage for a great martini. Add cocoa bitters, simple syrup, and vanilla ice cream and you may have just gone to heaven. You decide!
Alpine Cocktails has a surprise ending with their section titled Lodge Nibbles. It starts out with a recipe for pancakes. I can’t think of a better way to start any day.
Baked Brie, Bacon-wrapped Dates, and my personal favorite Roasted Curry Cauliflower round out the appetizer section. And who doesn’t like French Onion Soup! I was surprised to see how much simpler this recipe is compared mine.
Let’s face it, after a day of your favorite winter sport – or not – a hearty dinner is more than called for. The recipes for Mushroom Sauce and Pan-Seared Steaks had my mouth watering! And I am sure no one could resist Hot Cocoa Mug Cake to end a spectacular meal.
The hard cover cookbook is small – a mere 5.25 inches by 8.5 inches – making it a perfect fit in any bar setup. And the high-quality paper with gorgeous photos by Greg McBoat kept me saying, “Wait a minute let’s try this one!”
Whether you are looking for an alcoholic beverage – made with your favorite liquor – or non-alcoholic drink Alpine Cocktails has you covered. I can’t help but think what a great Christmas present this will make for the mixologist in your life!
