Brandy Alexander

There’s one drink that stands out for its rich, creamy taste and elegant appearance: the Brandy Alexander. This cocktail mixes the warmth of brandy with the smooth sweetness of cream and a hint of chocolate from the cacao, creating a luxurious treat that’s perfect for ending your day or celebrating special moments.

Tasting Notes

The Brandy Alexander is a delightful blend of flavors. Each sip brings a creamy texture that coats your mouth, followed by the warm, robust notes of brandy. The chocolate adds a sweet, luxurious depth, making this drink feel like a dessert in a glass. It’s balanced, not too sweet, and has a gentle kick from the alcohol that warms you up from the inside.

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 oz Brandy
• 1 oz Dark crème de cacao
• 1 oz Heavy cream
• Grated nutmeg (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Fill a shaker with ice cubes.
2. Pour the brandy, dark crème de cacao, and heavy cream into the shaker.
3. Shake well until the outside of the shaker feels cold.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a sprinkle of grated nutmeg.

Pro Tips

• For the best flavor, use fresh heavy cream.
• Adjust the amount of crème de cacao based on how sweet you like your drink.
• Chill your cocktail glass before serving to keep your drink cold longer.
• A light dusting of nutmeg adds the perfect finish, enhancing the drink’s aroma and flavor.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

The quality of brandy you choose can make a big difference. Here are a few recommendations:

• For a Luxurious Taste: Hennessy or Rémy Martin offer depth and smoothness.
• On a Budget: E&J or Christian Brothers provide great value without compromising too much on flavor.
• For a Unique Twist: Try an Armagnac for a slightly different profile that’s still delicious.

Similar Cocktails

If you love the Brandy Alexander, here are five similar cocktails to explore:

1. White Russian – Swap the brandy for vodka and omit the crème de cacao for a coffee-flavored creaminess.
2. Mudslide – A more indulgent, ice cream-like version with vodka, coffee liqueur, and Bailey’s Irish Cream.
3. Chocolate Martini – For chocolate lovers, this vodka-based cocktail doubles down on the chocolate.
4. Golden Cadillac – A similar creamy texture but with Galliano and white crème de cacao for a unique flavor.
5. Grasshopper – Swap the brandy for green crème de menthe for a minty, chocolate treat.

History

The Brandy Alexander has a rich history, tracing back to the early 20th century. It’s believed to have evolved from an earlier cocktail called the Alexander, which used gin instead of brandy. The switch to brandy made the drink smoother and richer, and it quickly became a favorite in sophisticated bars and clubs around the world. It’s even said to have been a favorite of John Lennon.