The name “Kangaroo” for a Vodkatini certainly adds a touch of intrigue and whimsy to the cocktail. While the story goes that it was the original name for this drink, let’s dive deeper into the origins and explore why it might be called a Kangaroo cocktail.
1. David A. Embury’s The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks: One of the main pieces of evidence supporting the claim that “Kangaroo” was the original name is the drinks listing in later editions of Embury’s influential cocktail book. In the book, he lists a cocktail named “Kangaroo” which is essentially a Vodkatini. However, it’s worth noting that Embury himself never explicitly states that “Kangaroo” was the original name for the Vodkatini, and it is possible that the name was simply a variation or a nickname used by some bartenders.
2. Australian Influence: The name “Kangaroo” might be related to Australia, as kangaroos are native to the country and are a well-known symbol of its wildlife. It is not uncommon for cocktails to be named after animals or places, such as the Mojito (Cuba) or the Singapore Sling (Singapore). The use of the term “Kangaroo” could have been a nod to Australia or simply a playful and catchy name.
3. Connection to Vodka: Another possibility is that the name “Kangaroo” was chosen because of its association with vodka. Vodka has long been associated with Russia and Eastern Europe, but it has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, including Australia. The use of “Kangaroo” in the name might have been a way to highlight the use of vodka in the cocktail, similar to how the term “Martini” is often used to refer to cocktails made with gin.
4. Bartending Lore: Bartending has a rich history filled with stories and legends, and sometimes the true origins of a cocktail’s name can be elusive. The story of “Kangaroo” being the original name for the Vodkatini might have gained traction through word of mouth and become part of the bartending lore. It’s important to remember that these stories can be subjective and may not always have concrete evidence to support them.
While the evidence from Embury’s book suggests that “Kangaroo” was indeed a name used for a Vodkatini, the true origins and reasons behind the name remain somewhat mysterious. It is possible that the name was chosen for its Australian connotations, its association with vodka, or simply as a catchy and playful moniker. Regardless of its origins, the name “Kangaroo” adds a touch of intrigue and uniqueness to this classic cocktail.