The Bloody Mary is a classic brunch cocktail that typically consists of vodka, tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, hot sauce, black pepper, celery salt, and garnishes like celery stalks, olives, or lemon wedges. While vodka is the most common spirit used, there are many other types of alcohol that can be substituted in to create unique and flavorful Bloody Mary variations.
Vodka
Vodka is the traditional and most popular base spirit for Bloody Marys. As a neutral spirit, vodka allows the vegetable flavors of the tomato juice, Worcestershire sauce, and hot sauce to take center stage. Standard vodkas like Smirnoff, Absolut, and Tito’s work well, but potato vodkas like Ketel One and Luksusowa add extra creaminess. Flavored vodkas like citrus, pepper, and celery can also complement the seasoning mix. Vodka is a solid all-purpose choice that most Bloody Mary drinkers expect.
Gin
Gin makes an excellent alternative to vodka in Bloody Marys, adding herbal and botanical notes. The juniper and citrus backbone enhance the spices and tangy flavors already present. Standard London dry gins like Tanqueray, Beefeater, or Bombay work well, as do new western gins with prominent citrus, like Aviation and Bluecoat. For a savory umami twist, try Plymouth gin with its earthy base of root botanicals.
Tequila
Tequila may not seem an obvious choice, but its vegetal peppery bite makes it a natural fit for spicy Bloody Marys. Blanco tequilas like Espolon, Olmeca Altos, or Mi Campo work best to highlight the agave flavor. For smoky spice, use a reposado like Cazadores, Arette, or Partida. Skip the overpowering flavor of añejos and sip them neat instead. To accent the tequila, rim the glass with chili-lime salt rather than the usual celery salt.
Rum
Light and crisp rum varieties mesh seamlessly into Bloody Marys, while darker, aged rums can overpower. Look for clean, unaged rums like Cruzan, Flor de Caña extra dry, or Denizen white rum. Aged rums to try are Plantation 3 Stars with its mild vanilla oakiness or El Dorado 3 Year with subtle molasses notes. For an island vibe, garnish your rum Bloody Mary with wedges of grilled pineapple.
Mezcal
Smoky mezcal makes a wonderfully intense, savory Bloody Mary. The charred agave flavor pairs perfectly with tomatoes and hot sauce. For mixing, avoid extremely peaty styles and opt for a lighter mezcal like Del Maguey Vida, Alipús San Juan, or Mezcal el Silencio. Garnish with slices of grilled orange or grapefruit to complement the fruit undertones. A pinch of Mexican spices like ancho chile powder, cumin, and oregano rim the glass beautifully.
Whiskey
Bourbon whiskey is a bold option for Bloody Marys, adding oak and caramel richness. Look for sweet, smooth bourbons like Maker’s Mark, Angel’s Envy, or Wild Turkey 101. Rye whiskey also works nicely – the spicy bite of brands like Old Overholt, Wild Turkey 101 Rye, or Old Forester Rye accents the Bloody Mary mix flawlessly. Irish whiskey like Jameson, Bushmills, or Tullamore D.E.W. adds subtle grain sweetness.
Irish Cream Liqueurs
For a dessert-inspired Bloody Mary, Irish cream liquors add rich sweetness and creamy texture. Baileys Original Irish Cream is the classic choice, though brands like Carolans, Saint Brendan’s, and Brady’s Cream all work well. Add chocolate or coffee liqueurs too if desired. Rim the glass with chocolate powder, chocolate shavings, or chocolate syrup for a sweet indulgent treat.
Conclusion
While vodka is the expected base spirit, there are many creative alcohol options for making unique Bloody Mary cocktails. Gin, rum, tequila, mezcal, whiskey, and Irish cream liqueurs all add their own complementary flavors and character. Just adjust the rim, garnish, and seasoning mix to match whichever spirit you choose. So next time you make Bloody Marys, consider venturing beyond basic vodka for a delicious brunch drink that stands out.