
Is This The Ultimate Cocktail Book? Feat: Michael & Zara Madrusan | Bartender at Large ep 492
From Bartender at Large by Bartender at Large Network
April 6, 2026 · 32 min
About this episode
Michael and Zara Madrusan discuss their new cocktail book and its significance in the bartending world.
Join us for a conversation with Michael and Zara Madrusan, the bartending power couple behind one of the most comprehensive new cocktail books in years: The Madrusan Cocktail Companion. Drawing from their own extensive library of drink books dating back to 1862, they have crafted a spectacular compendium that traces the stories behind the cocktail canon alongside every imaginable twist on classics like the Martini. From Sours, Bucks, and Flips to aperitivo-style drinks and non-alcoholic options, they share how the book emphasizes readily available products and minimal preparation without sacrificing sophistication. With stunning photography, imperial and metric measurements, and a gorgeous hardback package complete with dual ribbons and sprayed edges, this is a book built to be used and admired. Tune in for an inspiring look at how these two turned their love of cocktails research into the definitive guide for today's craft bartender. Buy the Madrusan Cocktail Companion here: https://www.quarto.com/books/9781761500442/the-madrusan-cocktail-companion Sign up for Giffard West Cup 2026 U.S. Cocktail Competition here: https://bit.ly/GWC_ErickC WATCH OUR VIDEOS ON YOUTUBE…
People in this episode
Host: Bartender at Large Network
Guests: Michael Madrusan, Zara Madrusan
Topics covered
- cocktails
- bartending
- cocktail books
- drink recipes
- craft bartending
Keywords
- cocktail book
- Madrusan Cocktail Companion
- cocktail recipes
- bartending tips
- drink history
Mentioned in this episode
Books & works: The Madrusan Cocktail Companion
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