The Vodka Martini, which first appeared on American bar menus in the mid-1930s, is known by its alternate name, the Kangaroo. This name originated from Oscar Haimo, who published it in his 1943 book “Cocktail Digest.” At the time, Haimo was the head bartender at the prestigious Pierre Hotel in New York City.
Haimo decided to call the cocktail “the Kangaroo Kicker” due to its potent nature and the strong kick it delivers. This name perfectly captures the essence of the drink, emphasizing its strength and impact on the drinker. Just like a kangaroo's powerful kick, the Kangaroo cocktail packs a punch.
The choice to use the term “kicker” in the name is intriguing. It suggests that this cocktail has the ability to surprise and invigorate the palate with its bold flavors and high alcohol content. Perhaps Haimo wanted to highlight the fact that this drink is not to be taken lightly, and that it possesses the ability to awaken the senses.
The association with the kangaroo, a unique and iconic animal native to Australia, adds a touch of exoticness to the cocktail's name. Kangaroos are known for their agility and strength, and this imagery aligns with the character of the drink. It creates a sense of adventure and excitement, as if the drinker is embarking on a thrilling journey with each sip.
Personal experiences can help us understand the connection between the name and the cocktail. Imagine sitting at a bar, ordering a Kangaroo cocktail, and feeling a surge of anticipation as the bartender prepares your drink. As it is placed before you, the clear liquid shimmers in the glass, and you can almost feel the power emanating from it. The first sip delivers a burst of flavors, leaving you with a tingling sensation and a newfound appreciation for the name “Kangaroo.”
The Vodka Martini's alternative name, the Kangaroo, was coined by Oscar Haimo in his 1943 book “Cocktail Digest.” The name captures the cocktail's strength and impact, likening it to a kangaroo's powerful kick. The association with this iconic Australian animal adds a sense of adventure and excitement to the drink. So, the next time you order a Vodka Martini, remember its alternative name, the Kangaroo, and embrace the thrill it brings.