January 31 is National Brandy Alexander Day. Isn't it great that cocktails have their own holidays. It gives us yet another reason to imbibe. Personally, I'm waiting on National Cognac Day! But that's another story. The Brandy Alexander is a drink that was created early in the 20th century. Early stories say that it was created in London in 1922, for the Countess of Harewood's wedding. It is based off a Gin based cocktail called the "Alexander"

Now what is a Brandy Alexander you may ask? There are a few variations of this great cocktail but Ill give you the one I learned to make when I first began bartending.

Brandy Alexander
1 1/2oz Brandy
1oz Dark Creme de Cacao
1oz Heavy Cream/Half and Half

Prep:
Mix all ingredients with ice in a shaker or blender. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.


Now, a Brandy Alexander can also be made frozen which Ive found that most people like as well. Blend the ingredients with 2 scoops of ice-cream instead of the cream/Half & Half, and a scoop of crushed ice, and serve in a tall wine glass.

Another variation of a Brandy Alexander is called a Panama, which uses light Creme de Cacao instead of dark.

So now that you know what a Brandy Alexander is (think of it as a milkshake with a kick!) and you know that today is the National day, go have yourself one today!!

 

And with the snowstorm we are expecting here in Chicago, a Alexander would be a great after dinner cocktail for me this evening!!

This article is credit to Mr Mixologist Blogspot