The History of the Mary Pickford Cocktail

Jump to the Mary Pickford recipe

A very fancy cocktail with an extremely glamorous namesake, the Mary Pickford cocktail was created during the era of Prohibition and is saved for only the classiest of establishments.

TL;DR

• Mary Pickford was a Hollywood superstar and trailblazer in the entertainment industry.
• The cocktail was likely created at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba during her visit in the early 1920s.
• The true inventor of the cocktail is disputed, with both Fred Kaufman and Eddie Wolke as contenders.
• Modern variations adjust rum quantities and use fresh ingredients for a personalized twist.

Who was Mary Pickford?

Born in Canada in 1893 as Gladys Mary Smith, Mary Pickford emerged as one of the very first Hollywood superstars. With a sparkling career in silent movies, she attained the status of America's sweetheart, earning the title of the highest-paid woman in the United States at her peak. Over her career, she starred in an impressive total of 194 films. Beyond acting, Pickford was a producer and co-founder of both the United Artists studio and the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. Her significant contributions to the entertainment industry undoubtedly made her a fitting inspiration for a cocktail named in her honor.

Who created the classic cocktail?

The delightful blend of pineapple juice, white rum, grenadine, and maraschino cherry juice was thought to have been concocted at the Hotel Nacional de Cuba. The story goes that Mary Pickford visited Havana with her husband, Douglas Fairbanks, and their friend Charlie Chaplin while they were filming a movie locally. Taking a break from their busy schedules, they enjoyed the freedom to drink alcohol publicly in Cuba, which was not restricted by the Prohibition laws that were in place in the United States at the time. The incident likely occurred in the early 1920s, and it was during this visit that Pickford was first introduced to the cocktail that would eventually bear her name.

Fred Kaufman or Eddie Wolke?

Despite the captivating tale, the actual creator of the Mary Pickford cocktail remains a topic of debate. Both Fred Kaufman and Eddie Wolke, two bartenders from that time, have laid claim to inventing the drink. Who truly conceived the idea remains a mystery lost to history.

From Rum to Pages: The Cocktail’s Journey

The Mary Pickford cocktail made its first appearance in print in 1928 in Basil Woon's book, When It’s Cocktail Time in Cuba. The drink gained further recognition when it was included in the iconic Savoy Cocktail Book in 1930, where it was suggested that the addition of maraschino cherry liqueur could enhance its depth of flavor.

A potent mix

The original recipe listed equal parts of rum and pineapple juice, creating a drink that was deceptively smooth and sweet. Modern variations often emphasize more rum, resulting in a stronger, more potent finish. The sweetness of the pineapple juice can easily mask the alcohol, making it a delightful yet potentially dangerous drink to enjoy. This is one cocktail to sip slowly, as its potent kick can sneak up unexpectedly.

Variations on the Mary Pickford Cocktail

The Mary Pickford cocktail has evolved over time, and there is room for variation within the recipe. Whether inspired by the original drink or modern takes, today's mixologists often put their own spin on it. If you find yourself not particularly fond of cherry liqueur, you can omit it without compromising the cocktail too significantly, although this will highlight the pineapple juice's flavor more prominently. Another way to personalize the drink is by adjusting the ratio of rum to juice, tailoring the balance to suit your palate perfectly.

Experimenting with Ingredients

• Rum Variations: While white rum is traditional, experimenting with different types of rum, such as aged rum, can add nuanced flavors to the cocktail.
• Grenadine Alternatives: Some prefer to use homemade grenadine made from pomegranate juice for a fresher taste.
• Fresh Pineapple Juice: Freshly squeezed pineapple juice can elevate the cocktail, providing a vibrant and authentic pineapple flavor.

In the world of cocktails, the Mary Pickford stands out as a glamorous homage to its namesake. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with your own variations, it remains a delightful piece of cocktail history. So next time you find yourself in a classy establishment, why not order a Mary Pickford and toast to the golden age of Hollywood?