The History of the Bloody Mary Cocktail
The Bloody Mary cocktail has undergone something of a revival of late. Touted as the ultimate hangov...
Bloody MaryCocktail recipe
Cocktail recipe
Rating
4.75 / 5
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The Bloody Mary is the definitive savoury vodka cocktail, built for slow sipping and bold flavours. Its origins are famously...
... more
The Bloody Mary is the definitive savoury vodka cocktail, built for slow sipping and bold flavours. Its origins are famously debated: you’ll hear stories placing it in early 20th‑century Paris bars and others tying it to New York, with the name itself often linked (loosely and variously) to “Bloody Mary” folklore and famous Marys of history. What’s clear is that it becomes a brunch icon, prized for turning a simple spirit base into something that feels more like a seasoned, spiked refresher than a typical mixed drink.
Expect tomato juice to bring a rich, rounded body that vodka quietly lifts without stealing the spotlight. Lemon juice cuts through with bright acidity, while Worcestershire sauce adds a deep, savoury edge that makes the tomato taste fuller. Tabasco brings a sharp, lingering heat, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper tightens everything up, pushing the drink firmly into zesty, umami territory.
You’ll reach for this in a lowball/rocks glass when you want something bracing and substantial—especially at brunch, as a hair‑of‑the‑dog, or any time you’re craving savoury over sweet. It suits drinkers who like spice, seasoning, and a cocktail that feels more like a snackable, sippable pick‑me‑up.
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Invented
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(1920)
Base ingredient
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Vodka
Calories
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125 calories
Garnish
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Celery
Alcohol content
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12% | 1.8 units of alcohol *
Details
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Easy
Classic
Stirred
Lowball / rocks glass
Ingredients
oz
ml
cl
Serves:
-
+
Cocktail Colin says:
5/5
Vodka sits clean behind thick tomato juice, sharpened by lemon juice, while Worcestershire sauce and Tabasco sauce add tangy depth and heat, and salt and pepper tighten everything into a savory, mouthwatering sip. It works because the citrus lift and spice cut through the tomato’s richness without burying the vodka, ideal for drinkers who crave bold, savory cocktails and don’t mind a peppery kick.
Method
How to make a Bloody Mary
Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes
- Vodka 45ml, Lemon juice 15ml, Tomato juice 90ml, Pepper Sprinkle, Tabasco Sauce Dash, Worcestershire sauce 2 dashes, Salt Sprinkle
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- In a mixing glass with ice add all the ingredients
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- Stir gently to mix before pouring into a lowball glass
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- Garnish with a stick of celery and serve
Power tips
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Find out more- Consider using a freshly grated horseradish instead of pepper for an extra kick and unique depth of flavor.
- Experiment with adding a splash of pickle or olive brine for a savory twist on the classic Bloody Mary profile.
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FAQ's
What is the origin of the Bloody Mary?
The Bloody Mary's origin is somewhat contested, but one popular story attributes its invention to Fernand Petiot, a bartender at Harry's New York Bar in Paris during the 1920s. The cocktail gained popularity in the United States in the 1930s, especially at the St. Regis Hotel in New York City.
Can I adjust the spice level in a Bloody Mary?
Absolutely. The spice level of a Bloody Mary can be tailored to individual taste preferences. Adjusting the amount of Tabasco sauce and pepper will make the drink spicier or milder according to your liking.
Is there a non-alcoholic version of a Bloody Mary?
Yes, the non-alcoholic version of a Bloody Mary is often called a Virgin Mary. It contains all the ingredients of a traditional Bloody Mary except for the vodka. Some might add additional lemon juice or a splash of pickle juice to enhance the flavor in absence of the vodka.
What are some common garnishes for a Bloody Mary?
Common garnishes for a Bloody Mary include celery sticks, lemon or lime wedges, olives, pickles, and sometimes even prawns or bacon strips. These garnishes not only add to the visual appeal but also enhance the overall flavor and experience of the drink.
Why is it called a Bloody Mary?
The name 'Bloody Mary' is thought to be associated with several historical figures, but the most common association is with Queen Mary I of England, who was nicknamed 'Bloody Mary' for her persecution of Protestants. The drink's red color contributed to the name, making the connection to 'blood' more visually apparent.
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* US units estimated based on the standard alcohol content of the ingredients used and the proportions in the recipe. Please drink responsibly.
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