The Alabama Slammer is a 70s Southern creation, perfect for summer entertaining. Thought to have been invented at the Univeristy of Alabama as a shot (hence the name ‘slammer’), it eventually evolved into the tall and fruity cocktail that we’ve come to love today.
Alabama Slammer Cocktail
PREP TIME 5 min
QUICK TIPS
INSTRUCTIONS
01
1.
Add the bourbon, sloe gin, amaretto, and orange juice to an ice-filled cocktail shaker
02
2.
Shake until frosty (about 30 seconds)
03
3.
Strain into a highball glass over fresh ice
04
4.
Garnish and serve
Where did the name come from?
The Alabama Slammer is as fun and vibrant as its name suggests! While the exact origin story is a bit hazy, it’s believed that this cocktail was born in the 1970s on the college football scene in the American South, particularly popular among Alabama Crimson Tide fans.
The name “Slammer” hints at its easy-drinking, party-friendly nature—perfect for celebrations, tailgating, or just enjoying a relaxed evening with friends. The drink’s blend of whiskey, sloe gin, amaretto, and orange juice creates a smooth yet punchy concoction that’s just as colourful as it is delicious.
Also see: 13 Best Amaretto Cocktails to Enjoy This Festive Season
Can I substitute sloe gin in an Alabama Slammer?
Absolutely, substitutions are a great way to put your own twist on the classic Alabama Slammer! While sloe gin adds a unique berry-like sweetness, you can explore other options like Bulldog Gin for a different flavour profile.
Bulldog Gin, with its bold botanical notes, can give the drink a slightly more robust and complex taste, balancing out the sweetness of the whiskey and amaretto. Just remember, substituting sloe gin will change the drink’s character, but experimenting is part of the fun in cocktail making!
Read next: 22 Zesty Orange Juice Cocktails For Every Occasion and Season
More drinks to try if you love an Alabama Slammer
If you enjoy the fruity and smooth blend of an Alabama Slammer, you’ll likely love these other cocktails:
- Harvey Wallbanger. A mix of vodka, Galliano, and orange juice, offering a citrusy kick with a herbal twist.
- Sex on the Beach. A crowd-pleaser with vodka, peach schnapps, cranberry juice, and orange juice, perfect for summer sipping.
- Tequila Sunrise. Featuring tequila, orange juice, and grenadine, this drink is as stunning to look at as it is to drink.
- Mai Tai. A tropical treat combining rum, lime juice, orgeat syrup, and orange liqueur, ideal for those who love a tiki vibe.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
An Alabama Slammer is traditionally made with whiskey, sloe gin, amaretto, and orange juice. The combination results in a sweet, fruity cocktail with a smooth finish. It’s a perfect blend for those who enjoy a refreshing drink with a bit of a kick.
In bartending lingo, a "slammer" typically refers to a shot or drink that's consumed quickly, often in a fun and lively manner. The term can also refer to cocktails that are potent or have a strong impact, hence the idea of being "slammed." The Alabama Slammer, while not necessarily a shot, carries the connotation of being a bold and enjoyable drink, ideal for lively gatherings.
No, amaretto is not a brandy. Amaretto is an almond-flavoured liqueur that originates from Italy. It's made from apricot kernels, almonds, or a combination of both, which gives it a distinct nutty flavour. While it shares some similarities with brandy in terms of sweetness and complexity, amaretto is typically lower in alcohol content and has a unique taste profile that sets it apart.
