17 Enigmatic Facts About Brandy Flip

The key things to note are using a whole egg (both white and yolk) which gives it a rich, creamy, nog-like texture when shaken, and grating fresh nutmeg over the finished drink. It’s a simple 3-ingredient cocktail but requires vigorous shaking to properly emulsify the egg.

The Brandy Flip is a classic cocktail that has been around since the 16th century. This sweet, creamy drink is made by mixing brandy, sugar, and egg. While simple in ingredients, the Brandy Flip has an air of mystery and intrigue.

Here are 17 enigmatic facts about the history, ingredients, and lore behind the Brandy Flip cocktail:

1. The first known Brandy Flip recipe comes from a 1695 book called The Gentleman’s Companion. This early version was made with brandy, beer, sugar, nutmeg, and eggs. Over time, the recipe evolved to use cream instead of beer.

2. Flips get their name from the “flipping” method used to mix the drink. To make a flip, the bartender pours the ingredients between two vessels to blend them. This process aerates the egg and gives the cocktail its frothy texture.

3. George Washington had a personal recipe for Brandy Flip. His version used rye whiskey instead of brandy. It was one of his favorite drinks and he would often serve it to guests at Mount Vernon.

4. In the 19th century, flips were considered breakfast drinks. The rich combination of booze and eggs resembled eggnog and was thought to be an excellent eye-opener. Brandy Flips were served in taverns in the morning hours.

5. Charles Dickens mentions drinking a Brandy Flip in A Christmas Carol. In one scene, Scrooge’s nephew Fred serves “smoking bishop,” a mulled wine, and hot Brandy Flip at his Christmas party.

6. There was an infamous “Flip Plot” against George I of Great Britain. In 1721, a group of English nobles planned to get the king drunk on spiked Flip drinks as part of a coup attempt. However, the plot was exposed and the conspirators were arrested.

7. To properly “flip” a drink, you need a special flipping mug. These tankard-style cups have two chambers. The bartender pours the ingredients between the chambers to mix and aerate them by flipping the mug upside down.

8. Early flips were cooked over hot pokers to warm them. Hot iron rods were placed in the cups to gently heat the drink. This caramelized the sugar and kept the flips piping hot.

9. In England, Brandy Flips were traditionally served on Boxing Day (December 26th). The rich, creamy cocktail helped revelers recover from their hangovers after Christmas.

10. There are many classic variations on the Brandy Flip. Popular tweaks include adding chocolate or coffee liqueur, using different styles of brandy, or topping with freshly grated nutmeg.

11. You should always use whole eggs when making a Brandy Flip. The egg whites contribute the frothy texture while the yolks provide creaminess and richness. Pre-mixed egg products won’t give the proper texture.

12. Legend has it that the Brandy Flip was one of John F. Kennedy’s favorite drinks. JFK reportedly enjoyed the cocktail so much that he even brought his own brandy with him to drink Flips during state visits.

13. In the early 1900s, flips fell out of fashion as cocktails became more popular. However, the drink saw a revival in the 2000s as speakeasy-style bars brought back classic cocktail recipes.

14. To properly layer a Brandy Flip, pour it gently over the back of a spoon. This ensures the frothy egg foam floats delicately on top rather than mixing in.

15. Traditionally, flips called for freshly grated nutmeg as a garnish. The warm, aromatic spice perfectly complements the rich flavors.

16. In Charles Dickens’ novel Martin Chuzzlewit, the character Mrs. Todgers runs a boarding house famous for its Brandy Flips. Dickens also frequently wrote letters requesting hot Brandy Flips to keep him warm during the winter.

17. Some believe that brandy’s high proof and the egg yolk’s fatty molecules may have a “hug drug” effect, inducing feelings of warmth and comfort when drinking a Brandy Flip. The cocktail’s soothing qualities may explain its popularity in cold weather.

So as you can see, the centuries-old Brandy Flip has a storied history intertwined with famous figures, royal scandals, holiday traditions, and mysterious folklore. This simple but satisfying cocktail continues to captivate and delight drinkers today. The next time you see a Brandy Flip on a menu, order one to experience a bit of liquid history for yourself!

Conclusion

The Brandy Flip’s rich, sweet flavor profile has helped it stand the test of time from its origins in the 1600s to the modern craft cocktail revival. This creamy elixir showcases brandy and egg in a classic combination that has connections to famous figures like George Washington and Charles Dickens.

With its frothy texture and warming qualities, the Brandy Flip remains a quintessential cold-weather sipper. So cozy up with this historic cocktail and discover why it has enthralled so many intriguing people across the centuries. The Brandy Flip’s past is as rich as its taste!