The Origins of the Bloody Mary (2014)

The Bloody Mary cocktail, celebrating its 80th anniversary, has a rich history tied to Prohibition and the Russian Revolution. Its origins are often debated, but it is widely accepted that it was created at Harry's New York Bar in Paris by bartender Ferdinand "Pete" Petiot. The bar, opened in 1911, became a haven for Americans during Prohibition. Petiot experimented with vodka, which was introduced to him by Russian émigrés, and combined it with canned tomato juice, leading to the creation of the drink initially known as the "Bucket of Blood." The cocktail gained popularity in the U.S. after Petiot moved to the King Cole Bar in New York in 1933, where it was renamed the "Red Snapper." The name "Bloody Mary" is believed to have emerged later, possibly linked to Mary I of England or a friend of entertainer George Jessel. Ernest Hemingway also claimed to have introduced the drink to Hong Kong in 1941. The King Cole Bar continues to serve the Red Snapper, which has a specific recipe involving vodka, tomato juice, and various seasonings. The cocktail's legacy endures as a popular choice for brunch and hangover cures.

- The Bloody Mary was created by Ferdinand "Pete" Petiot at Harry's New York Bar in Paris.

- The drink's original name was "Bucket of Blood" before being renamed "Red Snapper."

- The cocktail gained popularity in the U.S. after Prohibition ended in 1933.

- The name "Bloody Mary" may reference Mary I of England or a friend of entertainer George Jessel.

- Ernest Hemingway claimed to have introduced the drink to Hong Kong in 1941.