The world of bartending reaches new heights with the release of The Cocktail Balance 2.0, the latest book by Stanislav Harcinik. This 290-page sequel dives deep into the craft, blending practical knowledge, theoretical insights, and creative inspiration for bartenders of all levels.
Divided into three sections—Theoretical, Practical, and Inspirational—the book delivers an in-depth guide to every aspect of modern bartending.
A Deep Dive Into The Cocktail Balance 2.0
Theoretical Mastery
Harcinik shares expert insights gained from years behind the bar, from fostering creativity to precise cocktail cost calculations. Chapters emphasize the guest experience, touching on topics like hospitality, design, neurogastronomy, and even the bartender’s charisma.
Practical Innovation
This section highlights essential and advanced techniques, exploring carbonation science, ingredient infusion methods, and the art of enzyme clarification. The “Basics and Beyond” chapter covers ingredients such as organic acids, ice, enzymes, and ferments, showcasing innovative ways to transform ordinary components into extraordinary cocktails.
The recipe section is a standout feature, focusing on sustainability and efficiency. Using 15 core ingredients, each with three component recipes and two cocktail recipes, Harcinik demonstrates how to maximize flavor while reducing waste. Examples include utilizing every part of the pumpkin—from flesh to seed oil—and crafting cocktails with stinging nettle, gooseberries, or black rice.
Inspiration from Legends
Twelve Slovak bartending icons, including Zuzana Cerven Kromkova and Adrian Michalcik, share their stories and philosophies, offering readers motivation to elevate their craft. The “Notes” section includes foundational recipes and processes to complement the book’s content.
Visual Excellence
Adrian Chrzan’s striking photographs bring the text to life, showcasing bespoke glasses by Slovak designers and elegant compositions that highlight the beauty of each pour and garnish.
A Passionate Vision
“With The Cocktail Balance 2.0, I delve deeper into the art and science of bartending,” says Harcinik. “This book is a way to share my knowledge and inspire others to build upon it. Together, we can achieve more than any one person alone.”
Where to Find The Cocktail Balance 2.0
The book is available as a hardcover in English on The Cocktail Balance website. A free Slovak ebook version will be distributed to hospitality schools, reflecting Harcinik’s dedication to supporting the local bartending community.
