The History of the Grasshopper Cocktail

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Have you ever come across a cocktail as bright and glowing as the green, green Grasshopper? Made up of crème de cacao, crème de menthe, and good, old-fashioned cream, this is a frothy, delightful blend that is sweet, minty, and oh-so delicious!

TL;DR

• The Grasshopper is a sweet, minty cocktail made of crème de cacao, crème de menthe, and cream.
• Created in the 1910s by New Orleans bartender Philibert Guichet, it gained popularity quickly.
• It remains a classic at Tujague's, one of New Orleans' oldest Creole restaurants.
• Variations like the Grasshopper Shake and Frozen Grasshopper add fun twists to the traditional recipe.

Who Invented the Grasshopper?

The Grasshopper cocktail dates back to the 1910s, with its creation often attributed to Philibert Guichet, a professional bartender from New Orleans. Legend has it that Guichet crafted this vibrant drink for a cocktail competition held in New York City. As the story goes, the concoction secured second place in the competition, but it won first place in the hearts of many for its unique blend of flavors and striking green hue.

Guichet had recently acquired Tujague's, one of the oldest Creole restaurants in New Orleans, from the original owners. By introducing the Grasshopper and serving it at his bar, Guichet managed to elevate the establishment's status and attract a new wave of patrons. The name "Grasshopper" was inspired by the drink's vivid green color, reminiscent of the insect itself.

The cocktail quickly gained popularity due to its unique ingredients. Crème de menthe and crème de cacao were not commonly found in home liquor cabinets at the time, making the Grasshopper an exotic and indulgent treat for many. Patrons would visit Tujague's specifically for their Grasshopper fix and leave feeling pleasantly satisfied, but not overly intoxicated.

Tujague's remains a historic landmark in New Orleans, and the Grasshopper has been a staple on its cocktail menu ever since its inception. The drink's enduring popularity can be attributed to its nostalgic appeal, as it evokes memories of the past and connections to previous generations who may have enjoyed the very same cocktail.

Variations of this Cocktail

While the Grasshopper's classic recipe is undeniably delightful, there have been some creative variations over the years. These adaptations enhance the drink's versatility and allow for a touch of personal flair.

• Grasshopper Shake: For a truly decadent treat, especially on a hot day, some mixologists recommend swapping the cream for vanilla ice cream. This transforms the traditional cocktail into a luscious, boozy milkshake that is sure to satisfy your sweet tooth.
• Brandy Float: If you're looking for a bit more punch, consider adding a float of brandy. This addition not only increases the alcohol content but also adds a sophisticated, fruity undertone that complements the sweetness of the original ingredients.
• Frozen Grasshopper: Blend the traditional ingredients with ice to create a frozen version of the cocktail. This refreshing take is perfect for summertime sipping.
• Mint-Chocolate Swirl: Add a drizzle of chocolate syrup to the inside of your glass before pouring in the Grasshopper mix. This adds a visually appealing element and a rich chocolatey flavor with each sip.

The Grasshopper really is the perfect after-dinner cocktail, satisfying that need for something sweet and delicious while giving the traditional milkshake a more mature touch. Whether you stick with the original recipe or experiment with one of these variations, the Grasshopper is sure to delight and impress.

Conclusion

The Grasshopper cocktail is more than just a delightful drink; it's a piece of cocktail history that has stood the test of time. From its humble beginnings in New Orleans to its place on modern cocktail menus, the Grasshopper continues to charm and refresh with its unique blend of minty, creamy goodness.

Next time you're in the mood for a sweet treat with a hint of nostalgia, give the Grasshopper a try. Whether you enjoy it in its classic form or with a creative twist, this iconic cocktail is sure to leave a lasting impression.