As you begin formulating your Christmas list…here’s an idea for the whiskey drinker on your list.
Firestone and Robertson Distilling Company (F&R) announced today the publication of Shots Of Knowledge: The Science Of Whiskey. The book is co-authored by Rob Arnold, who is head distiller at F&R, and Texas Christian University Professor, Eric Simanek.
The coffee table book, published by TCU Press, is an in-depth guide into the entire world of whiskey – from its complex creation, to its chemistry and history.
“Shots of Knowledge is a great read because Rob and Eric have done an incredible job in making some very complex topics understandable for all,” said Leonard Firestone, co-founder of Firestone & Robertson Distilling Co. “Rob is a unique young talent because his scientific acumen is so complete and he can apply that knowledge to our whiskey production day in and day out. He is doing some very innovative things for our distillery, and we are proud to have him on our team.”
Rob Arnold, is the Head Distiller at F&R and was hired in 2011. Arnold is the co-author of Shots of Knowledge: The Science of Whiskey, which is a whiskey manual, organized into 58 essays accompanied by beautiful photos and illustrations.
“Firestone and Robertson’s unique research and development relationship with TCU inspired me to team up with Eric on this project,” said Arnold. “We’re so happy with the final product and we hope that whiskey enthusiasts as well as those just curious might enjoy the incredible visuals and easy to read narrative.”
The book explores whiskey production through the lens of science, history and engineering. The essays are divided into three sections: From Sunshine to Sugar, From Wee Beasties to White Dogs, and From Barrel to Brain.
Each essay illuminates the scientific complexities of whiskey production as well as the nuanced influences that contribute to each whiskey’s provenance.
“We knew Rob would be an excellent addition to the team given his passion for whiskey making coupled with his strong academic credentials in microbiology, biochemistry and plant genetics,” said Troy Robertson, co-founder of Firestone & Robertson Distilling. “In his time here, he’s applied sound science with terrific artistic instincts to create exceptional whiskies.”
Shots Of Knowledge: The Science of Whiskey is now available for purchase at the F&R’s distillery and web site (www.frdistilling.com) as well as on Amazon.com and in select bookstores nationwide.