Alexander

The story

The Alexander cocktail is believed to have originated in the early 20th century, with some attributing its creation to the 1910s. It gained popularity during Prohibition in the United States, as its creamy texture and sweet flavor masked the taste of lower-quality spirits. The drink has remained a classic, often enjoyed as a dessert cocktail due to its rich ingredients.

How it tastes

The Alexander offers a creamy, sweet flavor profile with notes of chocolate from the white crème de cacao and a hint of spice from the nutmeg garnish. It is typically served as a dessert cocktail, ideal for after-dinner enjoyment.

Getting it right

The key to a successful Alexander lies in the shaking technique. Shaking vigorously with ice ensures proper dilution and chilling, creating a smooth texture. Straining into a chilled cocktail glass is essential to maintain the drink's creamy consistency without ice shards.

Variations

• Brandy Alexander — This variation substitutes gin with brandy, offering a richer and more complex flavor.
• Chocolate Alexander — In this version, dark crème de cacao replaces white, resulting in a deeper chocolate flavor.

Substitutions

• Light cream — Half-and-half or heavy cream can be used as alternatives, though they will alter the drink's richness.
• White crème de cacao — If unavailable, a chocolate liqueur can be used, but it may change the drink's sweetness.

Questions

Can I make an Alexander without gin?

Yes, you can substitute gin with brandy or vodka for different flavor profiles.

What glass should I use for an Alexander?

The Alexander is traditionally served in a cocktail glass, but you can use any similar glass.

Is the Alexander a strong cocktail?

With an ABV of around 8%, the Alexander is moderate in strength, making it suitable for sipping.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026