A writer specializing in spirits in general and whiskey in particular, Mitenbuler has contributed to publications including The Atlantic, Slate, Saveur, and Whiskey Advocate. In his first book, he traces bourbon’s uniquely American history, outlining its place in frontier culture, its role in the politics and economics of the Gilded Age, its fall from popularity, and its recent resurgence. His narrative is itself a spirited look at bourbon’s makers, purveyors, and consumers.