Cocktails & Literature

At just 38 years of age, Emanuele Balestra is already considered to be one of the profession’s finest talents – a reputation which is well deserved. Having worked at the Trump Tower in Chicago and the Mamounia in Marrakech, the Majestic’s head barman is in a class of his own, as demonstrated by his first book, Majestic Cocktails. Published by Les Editions du 30 Décembre, the book provides an insight into the special methods and exclusive approach of this Italian mixologist. 

Balestra’s special trademark is his subtle blend of alcohol and plants. As a result, his creations take unusual twists and turns before they are poured into a cocktail glass. They pay a visit to the organic garden tended by the barman close to the hotel swimming pool, to the bee hives that he has set up on the roof of this 5-star hotel, and to the cabinets of an artisanal herbalist where he often purchases ingredients, before finally reaching the small laboratory in which this alchemist transforms fruits, flowers and herbs into jellies, scented ice cubes, flavoured water and home-made bitters.

It is these magical potions which Emanuele Balestra describes in his book, highlighting recipes and cocktail-making methods so that readers and fans alike can follow in his footsteps.

The 100 pages of Majestic Cocktails also include around thirty original cocktails. Some of these are described as “bartisserie” cocktails, a new word invented by our barman to describe the art of reproducing the delicious flavours of favourite desserts such as tiramisù, Paris-Brest and Crêpe Suzette in a glass. But most of the recipes chosen by the author revisit the classic, timeless drinks of his craft, such as the Dry Martini, Caipiroska, Negroni, Margarita and Manhattan. To each of these traditional recipes he adds a personal touch, bringing a fresh flavour and new identity to cocktails through his use of natural scents and aromas, including lemons from Menton, May rose, fennel flowers, rosemary, lavender and sage. Among his most original creations is a beetroot soda which, when mixed with gin, succeeded in pleasing the demanding palate of Pierre Gagnaire, one of the world’s best chefs.

However, Majestic Cocktails is much more than a simple recipe book. The author talks about his own life, from his childhood on the shores of Lake Maggiore to his travels around the world. In a lively, engaging style, he also retraces the origins of the great cocktails which have inspired his own creations. And, finally, he introduces us to his favourite plants in brief descriptions which provide a fascinating mix of botanical and medicinal insights. With or without a cocktail in your hand, this new book is a refreshing and highly enjoyable read.

Majestic Cocktails by Emanuele Balestra — Published on 15 December 2017 and available in bookshops and online — Les Editions du 30 Décembre — Price: €24.90.