Alexander (cocktail)

Alexander Cocktail

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Alexander

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Type	Mixed drink
Base spirit
Served	Straight up; without ice
Standard garnish	Nutmeg
Standard drinkware	Cocktail
Commonly used ingredients	* 1 part Gin 1 part Light cream 1 part White crème de cacao
Preparation	Shake all ingredients with ice and strain contents into a cocktail glass. Sprinkle nutmeg on top and serve.
Commonly served
Notes

The Alexander is a classic cocktail that has been a staple in the world of mixology for many years. Known for its smooth, creamy texture and rich flavor, the Alexander cocktail is a blend of gin, light cream, and white crème de cacao, shaken with ice and traditionally garnished with a sprinkle of nutmeg. This drink is served straight up, without ice, in a cocktail glass.

History

The origins of the Alexander cocktail are somewhat murky, with several theories existing about its creation. One popular belief is that it was first concocted in the early 20th century, possibly around the 1910s or 1920s, during a period when the art of cocktail making was flourishing in the United States. The drink is sometimes associated with the prohibition era, where it might have been appreciated for its ability to mask the taste of poorly made or illicit spirits.

Variations

Over the years, the Alexander cocktail has inspired a number of variations, the most famous of which is the Brandy Alexander, which substitutes gin with brandy. Other variations might use different types of alcohol, such as vodka or rum, but the classic combination of cream and crème de cacao remains a constant.

Preparation

The preparation of an Alexander cocktail involves shaking the gin, light cream, and white crème de cacao with ice, then straining the mixture into a cocktail glass. The final touch is a sprinkle of nutmeg on top, which adds a distinctive aroma and flavor that complements the creamy sweetness of the drink.

In Popular Culture

The Alexander and its variations, especially the Brandy Alexander, have made appearances in various forms of popular culture, including literature and film, often symbolizing sophistication and decadence.

See Also

• Cocktail
• Gin
• Brandy Alexander
• Mixology

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