The Brandy Alexander
Travel Distilled tells the story of the Brandy Alexander from its origins in the early 20th century to its 1970s revival & its appearance in films, books, & TV.
A History of the Brandy Alexander Cocktail
The Brandy Alexander is a classic cocktail that exudes elegance and indulgence. Its creamy, dessert-like quality has made it a favorite for decades, often associated with celebrations and sophistication. The drink’s origins are somewhat debated, but its history is intertwined with the evolution of cocktail culture in the early 20th century.
Origins and Evolution of the Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander is believed to have emerged in the early 1900s, during the golden age of cocktails. One popular theory traces its creation to the 1920s, when it was allegedly invented at the London hotel bar of the same name.
Another story credits its invention to Troy Alexander, a bartender at Rector’s, a New York City restaurant, in the early 20th century. According to this tale, Alexander created the drink as a promotional item for a dinner celebrating Phoebe Snow, a fictional character used in advertising for the Delaware, Lackawanna, and Western Railroad. The cocktail was designed to be a white drink, matching the character’s signature white attire.
The Brandy Alexander is a variation of the Alexander cocktail, which originally featured gin, crème de cacao, and cream. Over time, brandy replaced gin as the base spirit, giving the drink a richer, more decadent flavor profile. The substitution proved to be a hit, and the Brandy Alexander became a staple of mid-20th-century cocktail culture, often served at dinner parties and holiday gatherings.
Cultural Significance of the Brandy Alexander
The Brandy Alexander gained further popularity in the 1970s, when it became a symbol of indulgence and luxury. Its creamy texture and sweet flavor made it a popular after-dinner drink, often enjoyed as a dessert substitute. The cocktail also appeared in popular culture, including films and literature, cementing its status as a timeless classic.
The Brandy Alexander, with its luxurious and indulgent reputation, has made several notable appearances in films and literature over the years. Its association with sophistication and celebration has made it a fitting choice for scenes that evoke glamour, nostalgia, or even a touch of decadence. Here are some key examples of where the Brandy Alexander has been featured:
In Film
“Days of Wine and Roses” (1962)
This classic film, which explores the devastating effects of alcoholism, features the Brandy Alexander as one of the drinks that symbolize the characters’ descent into addiction. The cocktail’s creamy, dessert-like quality contrasts starkly with the darker themes of the story, highlighting its role as a gateway to more destructive drinking habits.
“Boogie Nights” (1997)
Set in the 1970s and 1980s, this film captures the hedonistic lifestyle of the era, and the Brandy Alexander is mentioned as a drink enjoyed by characters during a party scene. Its inclusion reflects the cocktail’s popularity during the disco era, when sweet, creamy drinks were in vogue.
In Literature
“Valley of the Dolls” by Jacqueline Susann (1966)
This iconic novel, which explores the lives of women in the entertainment industry, features the Brandy Alexander as a drink of choice for its characters. The cocktail’s creamy, luxurious nature mirrors the glamorous yet ultimately hollow lifestyles of the protagonists.
In Television
“Mad Men” (2007–2015)
This critically acclaimed series, set in the 1960s, frequently features mid-century cocktails, and the Brandy Alexander is occasionally referenced or implied. The show’s attention to detail in portraying the drinking culture of the era makes it a fitting context for the cocktail’s inclusion.
“Sex and the City” (1998–2004)
In one episode, the character Samantha Jones orders a Brandy Alexander, highlighting its status as a drink associated with indulgence and luxury. The cocktail’s appearance underscores the show’s themes of modern femininity and the enjoyment of life’s finer things.
Despite its decline in popularity during the late 20th century, the Brandy Alexander has experienced a resurgence in recent years, thanks to the revival of classic cocktails and the growing interest in retro drinks. Modern mixologists have embraced the drink, often experimenting with variations that incorporate different spirits or flavors.
Two Recipes for the Brandy Alexander
Classic Brandy Alexander Recipe
This is the traditional recipe that has delighted drinkers for decades.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ oz (45 ml) brandy
– 1 oz (30 ml) dark crème de cacao
– 1 oz (30 ml) heavy cream
– Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the brandy, crème de cacao, and heavy cream.
3. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
Vegan Brandy Alexander Cocktail Recipe
For those who prefer a dairy-free version, this recipe substitutes coconut cream for heavy cream.
Ingredients:
– 1 ½ oz (45 ml) brandy
– 1 oz (30 ml) dark crème de cacao
– 1 oz (30 ml) coconut cream (well-stirred)
– Freshly grated nutmeg (for garnish)
– Ice
Instructions:
1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add the brandy, crème de cacao, and coconut cream.
3. Shake vigorously until well-chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of freshly grated nutmeg.
Conclusion
The Brandy Alexander is a cocktail that has stood the test of time, evolving from its early 20th-century origins to become a beloved classic. Its rich, creamy texture and balanced sweetness make it a perfect choice for those seeking a luxurious and indulgent drink. Whether enjoyed in its traditional form or with a modern twist, the Brandy Alexander continues to captivate cocktail enthusiasts around the world.
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