National Brandy Alexander Day

Sophisticated individual sipping on a creamy cocktail, feeling like a 1920s socialite, surrounded by elegant art deco decor.. — National brandy alexander day illustration

Ah, National Brandy Alexander Day, a day dedicated to indulging in the creamy, dreamy goodness of this classic cocktail. It's like sipping on a little piece of heaven while feeling like a sophisticated 1920s socialite. So, get ready to raise a toast to this sumptuous beverage!

When is Brandy Alexander Day?

It's national brandy alexander day on the 31st January.

The Birth of a Legendary Drink

Let's take a step back and explore the history of the Brandy Alexander. This delectable cocktail was first concocted during the Prohibition era in the early 20th century. Legend has it that it was created at a quaint bar in New York City. While the Prohibition made alcohol illegal, sneaky bartenders and mixologists found ways to blend spirits with other ingredients to create hidden gems like the Brandy Alexander.

Originally made with gin, the Brandy Alexander later evolved to its current form, which includes brandy, crème de cacao, and heavy cream. It's essentially a dessert in a glass, providing a delightful combination of rich flavors and smooth textures.

A Toast to the Internet Influence

As we dive into the online realm, we find that National Brandy Alexander Day has gained quite the following. With over 56 mentions detected online, it seems people just can't resist sharing their love for this creamy delight. The peak of Brandy Alexander chatter seems to have occurred on January 31, 2016, when enthusiasts from around the world let loose their admiration for this heavenly libation.

History behind the term 'Brandy Alexander'

1922

Introduction of the Alexander cocktail

The first mention of the Alexander cocktail appears in Hugo Ensslin's 1922 book 'Recipes for Mixed Drinks'. The Alexander cocktail was a creamy and frothy beverage made with gin, cream, and crème de cacao. It gained popularity during the early 20th century as a sophisticated and indulgent drink.

1922

Birth of the Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander is believed to have been created in 1922. The exact origin is unclear, but it is commonly associated with the Rector's restaurant in New York City. It was named after the famous Russian tsar, Alexander II. This delicious cocktail is made with equal parts brandy, cream, and crème de cacao, a chocolate-flavored liqueur. It gained popularity in the Prohibition era as a way to mask the taste of poor quality homemade spirits.

early 20th century

Introduction of Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander, a classic cocktail made with brandy, cream, and creme de cacao, was first introduced in the early 20th century. The exact origin of the drink is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the United States. The cocktail gained popularity during the Prohibition era when people sought out creative ways to mask the flavors of bootlegged liquors.

1922

Birth of the Alexander cocktail

The origins of the term 'Brandy Alexander' can be traced back to the invention of the Alexander cocktail in 1922. The original Alexander cocktail was made with gin, sweet cream, and crème de cacao. It was named after the Russian tsar Alexander II.

1922

Origin of the Name

The term 'Brandy Alexander' is believed to have been coined in 1922 in honor of the marriage between Princess Mary of England and Viscount Lascelles. The wedding was widely celebrated, and many cocktails were created to commemorate the occasion. It is said that a bartender named Troy Alexander created the Brandy Alexander specifically for the wedding, and it quickly gained popularity as a sophisticated and elegant drink.

1930

Brandy substitution

In the early 1930s, there were variations of the Alexander cocktail using different base spirits. Brandy began to be substituted for gin, leading to the creation of the Brandy Alexander. The smooth and lush flavors of brandy brought a new dimension to the already popular cocktail.

1930

The Golden Age of Cocktails

During the 1930s, cocktails reached their peak in popularity, and the Brandy Alexander was no exception. It became a staple in upscale bars and social gatherings. The smooth and creamy taste of the cocktail made it a favorite among many patrons looking for a sophisticated and indulgent drink. It was often served as a dessert cocktail, enjoyed after a meal or during special occasions.

1930s

Introduction of brandy

In the 1930s, the original Alexander cocktail began to be made with brandy instead of gin. This variation gained popularity and eventually became known as the Brandy Alexander.

1940s

Hollywood's Favorite Libation

In the 1940s, the Brandy Alexander became a beloved drink in Hollywood. It was frequently mentioned in movies and associated with glamorous stars of the time, such as Grace Kelly and Frank Sinatra. The cocktail's rich and elegant image made it a symbol of old Hollywood glamour. Its popularity continued to grow, solidifying its position as a classic cocktail.

1930s

Rise of the Brandy Alexander as a Popular Drink

During the 1930s, the Brandy Alexander became a popular drink among the upper class and was often associated with luxury and indulgence. It was commonly served as a dessert cocktail, enjoyed after a fine meal. The rich and creamy texture, combined with the subtle flavors of brandy and creme de cacao, made it a favorite among those with a refined palate.

1934

Rise in popularity

The Brandy Alexander gained significant popularity during the 1930s. It became a symbol of elegance and was often associated with high-class establishments and social gatherings. Its sweet and creamy taste appealed to a wide range of drinkers, making it a beloved choice for dessert cocktails.

1948

Mention in a popular song

The term 'Brandy Alexander' gained further recognition in 1948 when it was mentioned in a popular song. The song, titled 'Brandy Alexander' and written by Nat Simon and Bernie Wayne, was recorded by various artists and contributed to the drink's popularity.

1950s

Cultural references in popular media

The Brandy Alexander solidified its place in popular culture during the 1950s. It was frequently mentioned in literature, movies, and songs, further enhancing its reputation as a sophisticated and luxurious cocktail. Notably, the cocktail was referenced in the 1959 film 'Butterfield 8', starring Elizabeth Taylor.

1970s

Rise of the International Bartenders Association

The International Bartenders Association (IBA) was founded in 1951, but it wasn't until the 1970s that the Brandy Alexander gained recognition as an official IBA cocktail. The IBA is responsible for promoting the art of cocktail making and establishing standards for internationally recognized cocktails. The inclusion of the Brandy Alexander in their list of official cocktails further contributed to its enduring popularity and status as a classic drink.

1950s-1960s

Pop Culture References

In the 1950s and 1960s, the Brandy Alexander gained further popularity and became a staple in pop culture. It was frequently mentioned in books, movies, and songs, cementing its status as a timeless classic. One of the most noteworthy references is in the song 'Brandy (You're a Fine Girl)' by Looking Glass, released in 1972, which indirectly pays homage to the cocktail.

1952

Fame in Hollywood

The Brandy Alexander skyrocketed to fame in Hollywood during the 1950s. It became a drink associated with glamour and celebrities, often featured in films and enjoyed by movie stars. This contributed to its image as a sophisticated and luxurious cocktail.

1970s

Association with holidays

The Brandy Alexander gained a special association with holidays, particularly Christmas and New Year's Eve. Its rich and creamy nature made it a favorite choice for festive celebrations, and it became a staple in many holiday traditions and gatherings.

Present Day

Continued Popularity and Variations

Today, the Brandy Alexander remains a popular cocktail enjoyed worldwide. It has become a staple in cocktail bars and is often featured on menus alongside other classic drinks. Several variations of the original recipe have emerged over the years, with additions like nutmeg, cinnamon, or flavored liqueurs. The Brandy Alexander's timeless appeal and delicious taste ensure it will continue to be cherished by cocktail enthusiasts for years to come.

1970s

Decline in popularity

The 1970s marked a decline in the popularity of the Brandy Alexander. The rise of disco culture and changing drinking preferences shifted the focus towards lighter and more refreshing cocktails. However, the Brandy Alexander still remains a classic and beloved cocktail for those who appreciate its rich and creamy flavors.

Present Day

Continued Popularity and Variations

The Brandy Alexander continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world. It has endured as a beloved classic due to its smooth and mellow taste. Over the years, variations of the original recipe have emerged, featuring different spirits or flavorings. Despite these variations, the essence of the Brandy Alexander remains intact, providing a decadent and delightful experience for those who indulge.

Present

Modern variations

In the present day, the term 'Brandy Alexander' continues to be used to refer to the classic cocktail made with brandy, crème de cacao, and sweet cream. However, there have been numerous variations and adaptations of the drink over the years, incorporating different liqueurs and flavors to give it a modern twist.

Present day

Modern variations and enduring popularity

The Brandy Alexander continues to be a beloved cocktail around the world. Bartenders have created modern variations by adding unique ingredients such as nutmeg, cinnamon, or chocolate shavings to enhance the flavor profile. Despite these adaptations, the classic recipe and allure of the Brandy Alexander remain timeless.

Today

National Brandy Alexander Day

To celebrate the enduring popularity of the Brandy Alexander, National Brandy Alexander Day is observed on January 31st each year. It is a day dedicated to enjoying this classic cocktail and recognizing its contribution to cocktail culture.