The Bloody Mary cocktail is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world and a pioneer among savory drinks. This distinctive and spicy mix combines vodka and tomato juice, elevated with a blend of flavorful seasonings. Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, and celery salt give it its unmistakable character. A true classic, the Bloody Mary is often enjoyed at breakfast or brunch and is famously praised for its hangover-relieving properties.
Story
Several legends surround the origins of the Bloody Mary. One of the most widely accepted stories credits Fernand Petiot, a French bartender at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris, with creating it in the 1920s. The drink gained popularity during Prohibition, when many Americans traveled to Europe in search of alcohol. Another theory links its name to Queen Mary I of England—nicknamed “Bloody Mary”—known for her brutal persecution of Protestants. Over time, the recipe has evolved into countless variations, sparking ongoing debate about what constitutes the perfect Bloody Mary.
Ingredients
1 ½ oz (45 ml) vodka
3 oz (90 ml) tomato juice
½ oz (15 ml) freshly squeezed lemon juice
2–3 drops Worcestershire sauce
2–3 drops Tabasco sauce
A pinch of salt
A pinch of freshly ground black pepper
Celery salt (optional)
Smoked paprika (optional)
How to Make a Bloody Mary Cocktail
Rub a lemon wedge around the rim of the glass and dip it into celery salt to coat the edge. Fill the glass with ice and set it aside. In the other half of a shaker, squeeze in the lemon juice and drop in the squeezed lemon wedge. Add the vodka, tomato juice, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, Tabasco, salt, and pepper. Shake well to blend the flavors thoroughly. Strain into the prepared highball or long drink glass filled with fresh ice.
Serving and Garnish
Bloody Marys are traditionally served in highball glasses. Garnish with a celery stalk or a wedge of lemon or lime. For a bolder presentation, add a skewer with an olive or a gherkin. A sprig of parsley can be a nice finishing touch.
Calorie Content
A single serving of a Bloody Mary cocktail contains approximately 120 calories. The calorie count mostly depends on the amount of vodka and tomato juice used.