The History of the Bloody Mary Cocktail

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The Bloody Mary cocktail has undergone something of a revival of late. Touted as the ultimate hangover cure, this classic concoction is infamous for its potent mix of flavors and its ability to mask the taste of alcohol, thanks to its rich tomato juice base. However, the tantalizing taste and refreshing quality can sometimes trick drinkers into consuming more than they realize, often leading to unintended levels of inebriation. Before you know it, you are drunker than you intended to be, possibly requiring another Bloody Mary to cure the ensuing hangover!

TL;DR

• The Bloody Mary's origins are disputed, with multiple bartenders claiming its invention.
• The cocktail's name may reference Queen Mary I or a Chicago barmaid named Mary.
• Its versatility and customization keep it popular, often featuring elaborate garnishes.
• Global variations like Canada's Caesar and Mexico's Michelada add regional flair.

Who Created the Bloody Mary?

The origin of the Bloody Mary cocktail is shrouded in mystery and multiple claims. The most likely creator is bartender Fernand Petiot, who initially claimed to have invented the drink in 1921 while working at the famed New York Bar in Paris, which later became the Harry's New York Bar. Petiot's original version of the drink was a simple mix of equal parts tomato juice and vodka.

However, Petiot's story evolved over time. After moving to New York to work at the 21 Club in the mid-1930s, Petiot insisted that he had perfected the drink in 1934 after hearing that another bartender, George Jessel, had also laid claim to it. Jessel, a regular at the 21 Club, had supposedly created the drink in 1939. In response, Petiot conceded that Jessel might have mixed tomato juice and vodka first but asserted that he was the one who added layers of flavor such as black pepper, cayenne pepper, lemon juice, and ice, thus elevating the cocktail to what we now recognize as a Bloody Mary.

Adding to the confusion, Henry Zbikiewicz, another bartender at the 21 Club, also claimed to have invented the Bloody Mary during the 1930s. With multiple bartenders asserting their versions of the story, the true origin is clouded, making it an intriguing topic for cocktail enthusiasts to ponder.

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Bloody Mary

Recipe card

4.75 / 5

Lowball / rocks glass

Microbadges

IBA Official Drink

Cocktail Of The Day

Invented

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(1920)

Base ingredient

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Vodka

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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

Love it or hate it, the Bloody Mary is a staple of any good cocktail bar.

Ingredients

Vodka

Lemon Juice

Pepper

Tabasco Sauce

Tomato Juice

Worcestershire Sauce

Salt

Method

How to make a Bloody Mary

Serves 1 · Takes 3 minutes

In a mixing glass with ice add all the ingredients

Stir gently to mix before pouring into a lowball glass

Garnish with a stick of celery and serve

Makers mode

View the full recipe

What's In A Name?

The history of the drink’s name is just as convoluted as its creation. Some historians suggest it was named after Queen Mary I of England, also known as "Bloody Mary," renowned for her persecution of Protestants. The moniker could have been a dark joke reflecting Europe’s turbulent times.

Another popular theory is more personal. It involves a barmaid named Mary who worked at the Bucket of Blood nightclub in Chicago. According to this version, the cocktail was named in her honor after she made a lasting impression on a patron.

Interestingly, when Petiot first served the drink, it was actually called a "Red Snapper," a name that still lingers in some establishments. Keep an eye out for this alias the next time you crave your tomato juice fix!

If you lean towards the Jessel version of the story, the naming has a different origin. According to this account, Jessel and his friends were experimenters, always on the lookout for potent hangover cures. One fateful morning, a friend handed Jessel a new spirit, vodka. In an effort to mask an unfavorable scent, Jessel mixed in tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and lemon juice. The drink proved effective, and the group enjoyed several rounds before being joined by their friend, Mary Brown Warburton. Taking one sip, she accidentally spilled the drink on her white dress, earning her the nickname "Bloody Mary" and consequently lending the drink its name.

The Evolution and Popularity of the Bloody Mary

The Bloody Mary has transcended its murky origins to become one of the most iconic cocktails in the world. Its ability to be personalized has played a significant role in its enduring popularity. Nowadays, bartenders and enthusiasts alike add ingredients such as bacon, shrimp, pickles, olives, cheese, and even sliders to garnish the drink, pushing the boundaries of its creative potential.

Part of its allure lies in its versatility. Whether you enjoy it as a hearty brunch accompaniment or a late-night reviver, the Bloody Mary has positioned itself as a timeless classic. The combination of savory, spicy, and tangy elements makes it a flavor powerhouse and a satisfying experience that aligns well with many food pairings.

Global Variations of the Bloody Mary

As the Bloody Mary gained global popularity, various regions began to adapt the drink to suit local tastes and available ingredients, contributing to its rich, multifaceted character. For instance:

• Canada: The Caesar, similar to a Bloody Mary but made with Clamato (a blend of clam and tomato juice) instead of pure tomato juice, is extremely popular.
• Mexico: The Michelada incorporates beer with tomato juice, lime, various sauces, spices, and peppers, offering a refreshing alternative.
• Japan: Some Japanese variations involve the addition of wasabi for an extra kick and a uniquely Eastern twist.

Health Benefits

Though primarily enjoyed for its rich taste and hangover-curing capabilities, the Bloody Mary contains ingredients that provide some health benefits. Tomato juice is rich in antioxidants, vitamins C and A, and lycopene, which has been linked to numerous health benefits, including reduced risk of chronic diseases. Adding horseradish, lemon juice, and various spices can also offer additional nutrients and anti-inflammatory properties.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Bloody Mary cocktail is a storied drink with a fascinating history, multiple origin claims, and a name that invites as much speculation as the drink itself provides satisfaction. Whether you favor Petiot’s refined creation or lean towards Jessel’s experimental beginnings, the Bloody Mary remains an iconic libation suited to diverse palates and occasions.

So the next time you sip this classic cocktail, take a moment to appreciate its rich history and the many hands that have shaped it into the beloved drink it is today. Cheers to the versatile and ever-intriguing Bloody Mary!