Unraveling the Mystique - The Storied History and Origins of the Alexander Cocktail
Which cocktail was invented to cure hangover?
MOREThe world's weirdest cocktail is the "Hangover Helper," which is made with vodka Red Bull chocolate milk and Pepto-Bismol. This concoction was invented by a bartender in New York City who was trying to help a hungover customer. The drink is said to be effective but it is not for everyone.
The Birth of Alexander (Early 20th Century)
Cocktails were popular in American drinking culture in the early twentieth century as a continuation from the previous century. But, by then Prohibition loomed on the horizon, sparking a surge of barroom innovation, which brought about sea change to American cocktail culture. New cocktail recipes arose as skilled bartenders created beverages to mask the harsh flavours of bathtub gin and other questionable libations.
The Alexander is thought to have debuted during this innovative age. Although the most credible origin places it origin in London, in 1922 by Harry McElhone, at Ciro's Club in honor of a famous bride, there are other claims too, and it becomes difficult to pinpoint the precise origin, however, early recipes and references prove its existence as early as 1915. The cocktail is said to be named after Alexander II of Russia, however historical evidence linking him to the drink is limited.Regardless of the name it wore, the Alexander made its mark throughout the Prohibition era. The creamy combination created a tantalising appearance of richness, a temporary respite from the terrible regulations of the day. For a brief minute, it felt as if one was sipping on sin itself.
Alexander Goes Hollywood (Golden Age of Cinema).
When Prohibition ended in 1933, the Alexander was ready for its close-up. During the Golden Age of cinema, Hollywood actors immediately adopted the cocktail as a symbol of old-world refinement.
In the 1930s and 40s, classic movies featured glamorous leads sipping Alexanders beside art deco furnishings and shimmering poolside. A far cry from smoky speakeasies, the Alexander now conjured images of Gatsby-esque grandeur and luxury. For a generation that survived the Great Depression and World Wars, this cocktail offered a taste of aspiration.Evolution and Variations (Mid-20th Century to Present)
In the post-war era, tastes continued to evolve. By the 1950s, the Alexander fell out of favor as drinks became lighter and brighter. Nonetheless, it remained a staple recipe for any well-versed bartender.
The decades that followed saw a flowering of Alexander variations. Contemporary twists range from swapping gin for bourbon to abandoning dairy for vegan coconut cream. Purists may protest, but these innovative riffs have exposed the Alexander to new generations of drinkers.
Alexander's Resurgence (Contemporary Era)
In recent decades, a cocktail renaissance has shone the spotlight back on timeless recipes like the Alexander. Amateur mixologists and craft bartenders alike have embraced vintage cocktails as a historical pursuit - studying the stories behind each spirit and bottle.
For many bars today, the Alexander stands proudly on the menu alongside modern creations. Its enduring allure reminds us that tastes of the past can still inspire and satisfy modern palates.The Alexander has played memorable supporting roles across the decades - fueling jazz-filled nights, impressing Hollywood royalty, and satisfying neighborhood regulars. This silky cocktail continues to fascinate as a liquid window into eras past.
So next time you seek a touch of classic refinement, consider the Alexander's seductive invitation. Shake up the past by giving this vintage cocktail a stir.Alexander Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
1 oz gin/cognac ( based on whether you are going for the earliest recorded recipe that called for Gin or the later classic recipe that incorporated Cognac )1 oz creme de cacao
1 oz heavy cream
Instructions: Add ingredients to cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until chilled and frothy. Strain into chilled coupe glass. Garnish with grated nutmeg or cocoa powder. Enjoy your delicious journey through cocktail history!
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