Collection: Black-Owned Cocktail Books & Bar Guides
This collection highlights Black-owned books that belong behind the bar, in the kitchen, and on your shelf. From cocktail recipe books and bartender guides to spirits education, history, and culture, these are the reads I keep coming back to.
Whether you’re learning how to build better drinks, understand the stories behind the bottle, or just looking for something dope to add to your collection, this is a solid place to start.
Every book here is UrFriendCharles approved — focused on craft, culture, and real perspective.
If you’re serious about leveling up your home bar, your hosting game, or just learning more about the industry, these are worth your time.
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Love & Whiskey: The Remarkable True Story of Jack Daniel, His Master Distiller Nearest Green, and the Improbable Rise of Uncle Nearest - Hardcover
Regular price $28.00Regular priceUnit price / perSale price $28.00INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER
Uncover the hidden history behind America's most iconic whiskey. In this gripping true story, New York Times bestselling author and entrepreneur Fawn Weaver reveals the extraordinary legacy of Nearest Green—the enslaved African American master distiller who taught Jack Daniel how to make whiskey and became the first Master Distiller at Jack Daniel Distillery.
Set against the backdrop of Lynchburg, Tennessee, this narrative weaves together historical investigation, personal discovery, and a modern-day quest for justice. Through extensive research, interviews with Green's descendants, and newly uncovered documents, Weaver illuminates not only the remarkable friendship between Green and Daniel but also Daniel's lifelong dedication to preserving his mentor's legacy—and how that story was nearly lost to time.
More than a history book, Love & Whiskey chronicles Weaver's mission to honor Nearest Green by founding Uncle Nearest Premium Whiskey, now the fastest-growing Black-owned spirit brand of all time and the fastest-growing bourbon in U.S. history. This is a powerful story of friendship, resilience, entrepreneurship, and the importance of giving credit where it's long overdue—a tale of how one woman's determination brought a forgotten hero's name back to the forefront of American whiskey culture.
Details:
- 376 pages of history, discovery, and inspiration
- Hardcover edition
- Dimensions: 9.2 x 6.4 x 1.4 inches
- Published: June 18, 2024
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Juke Joints, Jazz Clubs, and Juice: A Cocktail Recipe Book: Cocktails from Two Centuries of African American Cookbooks - Hardcover
Regular price $30.00Regular priceUnit price / perSale price $30.00JAMES BEARD AWARD NOMINEE • IACP AWARD FINALIST
A BEST COOKBOOK OF THE YEAR: The Boston Globe, Los Angeles Times, Food Network, Good Housekeeping, Garden & Gun, Epicurious, Vice, Library JournalDiscover the untold history of Black mixology and its profound influence on American cocktail culture through 70 rediscovered, modernized, and celebrated recipes. From the 2025 James Beard Lifetime Achievement Award winner and author of the acclaimed Jubilee, this beautifully illustrated book spotlights the creativity, hospitality, and excellence of Black drinking culture across two centuries.
Journey from traditional classics like the Absinthe Frappe and Clover Leaf Cocktail to modern favorites including the Jerk-Spiced Bloody Mary and Gin and Juice 3.0. Tipton-Martin shines a light on underheralded early-twentieth-century icons like Tom Bullock (the first Black author to publish a cocktail manual), Julian Anderson, and Atholene Peyton, alongside modern superstars such as Snoop Dogg and T-Pain.
Drawing on her personal collection of over 300 African American cookbooks, rare texts, and extensive research dating back to 1827, Tipton-Martin reveals how these drinks evolved and shares the compelling stories of how Black mixology came to be—a culmination of generations of practice, skill, intelligence, and taste. Each recipe includes an informative headnote that places the beverage in its cultural and historical context, making this essential reading for cocktail enthusiasts and history lovers alike.
Details:
- 256 beautifully illustrated pages
- 70 cocktail recipes with historical context
- Hardcover edition
- Dimensions: 9.1 x 7.1 x 1 inches
- Published: November 14, 2023
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The Barrister's Book of Old Fashioneds & Other Cocktails - Hardcover
Regular price $47.50Regular priceUnit price / perSale price $47.50Step into the world of bourbon and whiskey with this beautifully crafted cocktail guide that blends mixology with rich historical storytelling. Written by licensed attorney and executive bourbon steward Brandi Lowery, this book is perfect for cocktail enthusiasts of all skill levels—no professional bartending experience required.
Discover classic and creative old-fashioned recipes alongside fascinating "Bourbon & Bits," a collection of interesting facts and lesser-known information about bourbon's rich history. Whether you're unwinding after a long day or hosting the perfect party, these approachable recipes and captivating stories will elevate your home bar experience.
With stunning pigment-rich pages and an elegant hardcover design, this book doubles as both a practical cocktail guide and a gorgeous coffee table statement piece. Cheers to great drinks and even better conversation!
Details:
- 134 pages of recipes, history, and bourbon knowledge
- Hardcover with vibrant, high-quality design
- Dimensions: 8.5 x 8.5 x 0.5 inches
- Published: February 10, 2023