Driven by a modest courage and an immoderate love of alcohol, a solo female traveler criss-crosses half the globe to complete her atlas of regional wines, beers, cocktails, and liquors.

In every part of the world there is that preferred alcoholic beverage without which a meal would not be complete. But what is the origin of each of these regional favorites? Was it a new varietal bred in a vineyard? Or was it found in a long-forgotten bottle in a musty cellar? With author and veteran drinker Lily Huang as their guide, readers will sample alcoholic offerings from around the world, learning the history and stories behind each of these prized libations. From Latin American countries like Argentina, Chile, and Mexico, to the less-travelled Baltic states, Lily will stop at nothing to uncover the origins of specialty alcohols – even if it means travelling to the North Pole!

Along the way Lily tells the story of how the love of a harsh local firewater took root in a war-ravaged nation, why warming medicinal liqueurs are so common in the north, and how cool, refreshing cocktails came to be associated with tourist destinations in the tropics. Her research into the origins of these regional specialties is complemented by keen observations of daily life and local customs. For readers inspired to sample these rare draughts for themselves, essential travel information is provided. 

Through flowing prose, scenic photography, and attractive layouts, readers follow the course of Lily’s pilgrimage of the spirits, partaking in each raised glass along the way. Whether the destination is a bustling metropolis, or a lone shack in the middle of the desert, you can be sure Lily Huang will leave no stone unturned in her pursuit of a storied tipple!