CHAMPAGNE MAGNUM OPUS by world-renowned expert Richard Juhlin, a work of art published by Rizzoli, a grand and luxurious compendium on the most elegant beverage by world. Juhlin takes readers on a journey through the history of bubbly, the leading winemakers of Champagne, and the art of tasting. Superbly photographed by Pål Allan, this book depicts breathtaking landscapes in Champagne, historic photographs from the most prestigious and longstanding caveau, as well as other images capturing the Champagne lifestyle. This grand and luxe very large format volume is the ultimate book about Champagne, indispensable and entertaining. $85 and well worth it. And better than a magnum of Krug because you can savor it over and over.

PAULINE BOTY, British Pop Art’s Sole Sister by Marc Kristal is a tribute to a founding members of the British Pop Art movement and one of its very few women.

Having been largely forgotten after her death, her reputation has been growing steadily since the rediscovery and exhibition of her works in the early 1990s. As well as cropping up regularly in various books, documentaries and newspaper articles since then, she features as a central character in Ali Smith’s novel Autumn (2016) and one of her works sold for $1.4m at auction in June 2022.

Outspoken, provocative and charismatic, she refused to accept the oppositions between sexual and serious, celebration and critique, high and low culture. Observer and participant, feminist and hedonist, subject and object, Boty’s ‘double vision’ was decades ahead of its time, and prefigured a diversity of artists—everyone from Cindy Sherman to Madonna.

After seeing her work at an auction in 2013, Mr. Kristal has spent almost ten years researching her life, interviewing the people who knew her and delving into archives and libraries.  This is the definitive biography of her life and work, appealing to both those interested in art but in this creative period of British culture. Published by Frances Lincoln. https://www.amazon.com/exec/obidos/ASIN/0711287546/creativepubco-20

A PASSION FOR WHISKY, How the tiny island of Islay creates malts that captivate the world by Ian Wisniewski is engaging essential reading for fans of Islay whisky. The author, a well-known expert, explores the unique combination of tradition, innovation, climate and location that combine to create such superlative Scotch whisky. Published by Mitchell Beazley, an imprint of Octopus Publishing.

FROM THE HILL BY THE SEA, a cookbook memoir by Nova Scotia Chef Seadon Shouse is an entertaining discovery of culinary delights, an exploration of new techniques, sustainable recipes and foraging sure to inspire. This is a book that encourages one to step out of their comfort zone into a new realm of wilder possibilities, sure to appeal to readers eager to cook new fresh dishes. Published by Halifax.

HOW TO MAKE BETTER COCKTAILS is a valuable book for anyone wanting to improve their drink-making skills. Full of techniques, professional tips, recipes and free of the nonsense of complex drinks, this is an esssential primer for those who want to understand the “how” and “why” behind better cocktails. Authors Sebastian Hamilton-Mudge, Natalia Garcia Bourke and Andy Shannon are respected experts whose lessons are sure to make us better drinkers with more creative drinks on hand. A veritable bible for bartenders looking to hone their skills. Published by Mitchell Beazley.

THE FACULTY LOUNGE, A Cocktail Guide for Academics by Philipp Stelzel offers both tasty drink recipes but a satirical take on academia. Totally tongue in cheek, we chuckled with Stelzel’s light-hearted, amusing commentary on all facets of academic life together with his love of a good cocktail. Published by Indiana University Press.

CHEER, A Liquid Gold Holiday Drinking Guide by Mike Wolf is sure to raise your holiday spirits, a most complete cocktail book with over 125 recipes to delight drink enthusiasts of all kinds throughout the busiest entertainment seasons of the year. Published by Turner Publishing, this invaluable guide is a must-have resource and quintessential companion for cheerful refreshments.