Opening with an impassioned plea to maintain the dignity his trade, Patrick Gavin Duffy presents a representative collection of drinks from his era (1940's-50's). He includes drinks from the prohibition, warning those who would attempt to mix them. The drinks are organized by base liquor, which helps the mixer find a beverage without knowing its name. Because this book is older, some of the recipes call for ingredients no longer available or difficult to find. Also included is a wine guide, though the information may be out of date. Though it was written 50 years ago, Duffy's call to elevate the craft of bartending remains relevant today.