: While the revised edition features beautiful photography, some readers noted the original version had fewer pictures than modern competitors.
: Some find the alphabetical listing of recipes (rather than by style or ingredient) occasionally difficult for browsing. The Craft of the Cocktail: Everything You Need ...
: Unlike basic bar guides, it serves as a "trove of cocktail lore," exploring the history of spirits and bartending techniques, such as the debate between shaking and stirring. : While the revised edition features beautiful photography,
: Critics from Drinkhacker and Liquor.com highlight DeGroff’s "authoritative and welcoming charm," noting that he guides readers like a master entertaining guests from behind the bar. : Critics from Drinkhacker and Liquor
: The book includes 500 recipes, ranging from the classics (Martinis, Manhattans) to DeGroff’s original concoctions featuring fresh juices.
: While many home bartenders love it, some reviewers suggest it may be slightly advanced for absolute beginners compared to theory-heavy books like Cocktail Codex .