The cocktail hour has long been a cherished tradition of the South, a relaxing way to wind down and enjoy the conversation of friends and family, maybe with a tasty little appetizer to nibble on, too. But why stop at the cocktail hour, when you can make it an all-out party?

In Denise Gee's bow to classic Southern cocktails, you'll find the favorites, old and new. Don't wait for the Kentucky Derby to enjoy a Classic Mint Julep, or for Mardi Gras to down a Hurricane. Start the New Year with a French 75, or celebrate summer with a 'Bama Breeze. A section on Bar Necessities will give you a hand stocking your bar, creating garnishes, and serving in the proper glass, and a short list of classic toasts will get the evening started, Southern-style.

Size/Weight

• Hardcover: 120 pages
• Dimensions: 6.38 x 1 x 8.25 inches