John Lennon’s Favorite 3-Ingredient Cocktail: The Retro Classic Brandy Alexander

Few artists have managed to create music as timeless as John Lennon and his fellow Beatles. Did you know that the song “Yesterday” remains the most-covered song in music history? It’s no surprise that Lennon’s timeless style extended to his drink preferences. However, the cocktail now regarded as his signature wasn’t discovered until well into his solo career. This simple yet sophisticated drink, layered with depth and flavor from just three ingredients, has a fascinating story behind it.

The Story Behind John Lennon’s Favorite Cocktail

The tale of Lennon’s beloved Brandy Alexander unfolds during a tumultuous period known as the “Lost Weekend.” This era was marked by Lennon’s split from both the Beatles and Yoko Ono, filled with personal upheavals and numerous public incidents. One notable event forever changed Lennon’s cocktail preferences.

At a Smothers Brothers concert at the Troubadour nightclub in Hollywood, Lennon’s taste for cocktails took a definitive turn. His friend and fellow musician Harry Nilsson introduced him to the Brandy Alexander. Lennon thought the cocktail tasted like “milkshakes.” Unaware of its potency, Lennon may have overindulged, resulting in his ejection from the show. Reflecting on this notorious night on “The Old Grey Whistle Test,” Lennon admitted, “I got drunk and shouted,” adding, “It was the first night I had drank Brandy Alexanders, which is brandy and milk, folks.”

Despite the overindulgence and the subsequent antics, Lennon’s fondness for Brandy Alexanders endured, cementing the drink’s place in rock and roll history.

What Is a Brandy Alexander?

While Lennon’s description of the drink as “brandy and milk” isn’t entirely accurate, it does capture its creamy essence. A classic Brandy Alexander combines brandy or cognac, heavy cream, and crème de cacao. These ingredients are shaken until smooth and silky and served in a stylish martini glass. The cocktail’s creamy texture and chocolatey undertones make it a sophisticated after-dinner treat—think of it as the espresso martini of its day.

Some variations include ice cream or whipped cream to make the drink extra indulgent. However, the simple three-ingredient version remains perfectly decadent as is, making it a must-know recipe for any cocktail enthusiast.

The Popularity of the Brandy Alexander

The Brandy Alexander was a hit long before John Lennon’s endorsement. The cocktail first gained popularity during the 1920s, an era of extravagant and sophisticated dining. The earlier version, known simply as the Alexander, used gin instead of brandy. The brandy variation found a broader audience, allegedly becoming a favorite of F. Scott Fitzgerald during the Roaring Twenties. It was a fashionable choice at upscale bars and a staple in the speakeasies of the Prohibition era.

Lennon’s celebrity status brought the Brandy Alexander back into the public eye, but its charm and simple elegance ensure it will never go out of style—much like Lennon’s musical legacy.

How to Make John Lennon’s Favorite Cocktail

Ready to try this legendary drink? Here’s how to make a Brandy Alexander:

1. Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
2. Add 1/2 ounce crème de cacao, 1/2 ounce brandy or cognac, and 1/2 ounce heavy cream per serving.
3. Cover and shake until the outside of the shaker has frosted.
4. Strain into a chilled martini glass.
5. Optional: sprinkle with nutmeg to garnish.

Enjoy this classic cocktail that has earned its place in rock and roll history!

This simple and sophisticated drink not only delighted John Lennon but also continues to be a favorite for many. Try it at your next gathering and raise a glass to the legendary Beatle himself.