I first met Noah Rothbaum at this year’s Tales of the Cocktail, and it was immediately clear I was in the presence of whiskey royalty. His deep well of knowledge, disarming humility, and easy storytelling made an impression long before a single bottle was opened. So when I heard he was launching The Whiskey Bible, I knew it wasn’t going to be just another book release—it was going to be an event for whiskey lovers.
The launch took place at Dear Irving on Broadway, a richly appointed cocktail lounge in Manhattan that feels like a time capsule of elegance, tucked just above the city’s The setting could not have been more fitting. Intimate without being stuffy, opulent without pretension—exactly the kind of place where whiskey history should be honored and reimagined.
Noah, already a celebrated drinks journalist and James Beard Award-winning author, introduced The Whiskey Bible not just as a guide, but as an invitation into his research and passion. This 600+ page opus covers the spirit from every possible angle—global origins, distillation techniques, cultural impact, cocktail applications, and even a bit of myth-busting for good measure. It’s not just comprehensive—it’s personal, accessible, and genuinely fun to read.
At the event, guests were treated to pours from different whiskey-producing regions, each introduced with a quick story or fascinating tidbit from The Whiskey Bible. Rothbaum’s passion served as an open door, welcoming everyone to find their place in the whiskey world—regardless of how much they knew going in. Adding a personal touch to the evening, his family was there by his side, a powerful reminder that behind every great storyteller is a circle of support.
What makes The Whiskey Bible stand apart from other whiskey books is its dual mission: to educate and to celebrate. You’ll learn the difference between a pot still and a column still and pick up fascinating details about American rye’s near-extinction and revival. But you’ll also find a whiskey cocktail recipe for nearly every mood, and meet the fascinating figures—many unsung—who shaped whiskey’s global legacy, from enslaved distillers to pioneering women and immigrant entrepreneurs.
The highlight of the night wasn’t just the whiskey or the venue—it was the spirit of so much storytelling. The Whiskey Bible isn’t just for collectors or connoisseurs; it’s for anyone who’s ever wondered what exactly is in their glass—and how it got there. Adding to the magic of the evening was the rare opportunity to see so many spirits greats come out in celebration—from writers at The New York Times and Esquire to industry legends, all raising a glass to Noah. Their presence underscored just how deeply respected and widely admired he is across the worlds of journalism, mixology, and beyond.
For anyone looking to deepen their appreciation of whiskey, or simply explore its world with a guide who’s equal parts scholar and enthusiast, The Whiskey Bible is essential reading.
