The first time I heard of a Brandy Alexander was a few years back while watching Days of Wine and Roses, starring Jack Lemmon and Lee Remick. The film is a sad tale of a couples descent into alcoholism. When the two meet in the beginning of the movie, Jack Lemmon buys Lee Remick her first drink, a Brandy Alexander. She admits that the drink “made me feel good” and is quick to order another. From there it is a downward spiral as their lives and addictions get more and more out of control.
Now if that isn’t inspiring enough to try a new drink, I certainly don’t know what is!
The Brandy Alexander is a take on the traditional Alexander (which is made with gin), and became popular during the 1920’s. It is said to be the preferred drink of John Lennon during his “lost weekend”, an 18 month period when he was separated from Yoko, and went on a binge drinking spree.
This classy drink really is not just for alcoholics and binge drinkers. It is a creamy and slightly sweet cocktail that is perfect for after dinner. It goes well with desserts, or can be made into a dessert by using vanilla ice cream instead of milk, and blending. It’s flavor is somewhat like that of Egg Nog, which makes this an excellent winter time drink.
To make the Brandy Alexander fill a cocktail shaker with ice. Fill with 1 1/2 ounce Brandy, 1/2 ounce Dark Creme De Cacao, and 2-3 ounces milk or cream. Shake and strain into a chilled martini glass. Sprinkle nutmeg on top. The drink is traditionally made with more milk than alcohol, but I like to use a little bit less milk so I can taste the Brandy a bit more.
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Peggasus says:
I remember my dad making this drink for my mother and aunt back in the 60s, except he did it in a blender. He would make this one or the ‘Grasshopper,’ which was made with green creme de minthe. Totally ‘ladies’ drinks.
I also made this when I was a bartender with ice cream instead of milk. Old ladies still liked it then, too.
Now I’m an old lady; perhaps I should give it a try again.
Tnks fr th mrmrs.
January 7th, 2008 at 11:32 am