Hangman's blood

Hangman's Blood is a potent cocktail that originated in the United Kingdom. It is known for its unique combination of various spirits and its high alcohol content. The cocktail was first mentioned in the 1929 novel The Gun Seller by Richard Hughes, where it is described as a drink that could "knock out an elephant".

Ingredients

Hangman's Blood is made up of several different types of alcohol, including gin, whiskey, rum, port, and brandy. It also includes a small amount of stout and champagne. The exact proportions can vary, but a typical recipe might include equal parts of each spirit, topped off with the stout and champagne.

Preparation

To prepare Hangman's Blood, the spirits are typically combined in a large glass, followed by the stout and champagne. The drink is then stirred gently to combine. Despite its high alcohol content, Hangman's Blood is often described as having a surprisingly smooth and complex flavor.

History

The origins of Hangman's Blood are somewhat murky, but it is generally believed to have been created in the United Kingdom in the early 20th century. It was first mentioned in literature in Richard Hughes' 1929 novel The Gun Seller, where it is described as a favorite drink of the protagonist.

Cultural Significance

Hangman's Blood has a certain notoriety due to its high alcohol content and its appearance in The Gun Seller. It is often associated with the roaring twenties and the prohibition era in the United States, although it is not clear whether it was actually consumed during this time.

See Also

• List of cocktails
• Cocktail culture
• Prohibition in the United States