The History of the Alexander

Jump to the Alexander recipe

The Alexander, a classic dessert cocktail, has a rich history and distinct place in the world of mixology. This cocktail follows a simple yet versatile formula of equal parts base spirit, liqueur, and a dairy-based mixer, making it a favorite starting point for both novice and experienced bartenders.

TL;DR

• The Alexander cocktail was created by Troy Alexander in New York City and inspired by a character promoting clean coal.
• The recipe first appeared in Hugo Ensslin's 1915 book, marking its timeless appeal.
• The Brandy Alexander, a smoother variant, became more popular and has debated origins.
• Pop culture and numerous delightful variations keep the Alexander cocktail a beloved classic.

Origin and Creation

The original Alexander cocktail is believed to have been created by Troy Alexander at Rector's, a famous restaurant in New York City. The inspiration behind the drink was the fictional character Phoebe Snow, a beautiful woman depicted in a white dress, hat, and gloves to promote clean-burning coal on the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad. In honor of this elegant character, Alexander created a white cocktail, which he fittingly named after himself.

First Mention in Literature

The Alexander cocktail was first documented in Hugo Ensslin's 1915 book, “Recipes for Mixed Drinks.” This publication is a significant milestone in cocktail history, capturing the recipe for future generations of cocktail enthusiasts and mixologists.

The Evolution: From Gin to Brandy

Around 1922, another exciting development in the Alexander's history occurred. The marriage of Princess Mary and Viscount Lascelles in London is widely believed to have inspired a notable variation: the Brandy Alexander. This version substituted gin with brandy, resulting in a cocktail that is smoother, sweeter, and often considered tastier. The Brandy Alexander quickly gained popularity and in many circles, it has overshadowed the original gin-based version.

Debated Origins

The origin of the Brandy Alexander is subject to debate. While some stories link it to Princess Mary’s marriage, other theories propose different roots. For example, some believe the Brandy Alexander was an independent creation, unrelated to the original Alexander. There are even claims that it was named after prominent figures such as the Russian Tsar Alexander II or opera critic Alexander Dragon. Despite these conflicting stories, what remains undisputed is the Brandy Alexander’s lasting impact on mixology culture.

Pop Culture Impact

The Alexander and its variations have made numerous appearances in popular culture, contributing to their enduring legacy. One iconic moment was in the “Mary Tyler Moore Show,” where the character Mary Richards ordered a Brandy Alexander during a job interview. This popular show, regarded as one of the best television programs ever produced, played a significant role in boosting the cocktail’s profile. Additionally, legendary musicians like Ringo Starr and John Lennon were known fans of the Alexander, with Lennon famously referring to it as his milkshake.

Variations and Innovations

While the original Alexander and the Brandy Alexander remain classics, mixologists have created several delightful variations, each bringing a unique twist to the formula:

• Brandy Alexander: The most popular version, using brandy instead of gin for a smoother and sweeter taste.
• Coffee Alexander: This variation substitutes gin with coffee liqueur, adding a rich, robust coffee flavor.
• Blue Alexander: In this version, blue curaçao replaces crème de cacao, giving the cocktail a striking blue color and a citrusy twist.
• Ice Cream Alexander: To add even more decadence, some bartenders replace cream with ice cream, transforming the cocktail into a milkshake-like dessert drink.
• Milk Substitutions: Where cream is often too rich for some, milk can be used as a lighter alternative, still maintaining the creamy texture of the cocktail.

The Recipe

No matter the variation, the Alexander follows an easy-to-remember formula:

Ingredients:

• 1 part base spirit (gin, brandy, or an alternative)
• 1 part chocolate liqueur (such as crème de cacao)
• 1 part dairy-based mixer (cream, milk, or ice cream)

Shake the ingredients with ice, strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with grated nutmeg or chocolate shavings for a final touch.

Conclusion

The Alexander cocktail, with its intriguing history and versatile recipe, remains a beloved choice for dessert cocktail enthusiasts. From the original gin-based creation to the smoother Brandy Alexander and countless innovative variations, this cocktail continues to delight and inspire. Its appearances in popular culture and the unwavering affection from celebrities only add to its charm and mystique. Whether enjoyed as a sophisticated evening drink or a decadent after-dinner treat, the Alexander is a timeless classic in the world of cocktails.