The Vieux Carré: A Spirited Tribute to New Orleans
Inspired by the vibrant French Quarter of New Orleans, the Vieux Carré cocktail embodies the city’s eclectic spirit with its rich blend of flavors. This sophisticated drink is a masterful combination of diverse elements, much like the Big Easy itself.
A Brief History of Its Ingredients
Bénédictine, a golden liqueur first crafted by Benedictine monks in the 16th century, brings a sweet, aromatic flavor to the mix. Meanwhile, Peychaud’s Bitters, created in New Orleans around 1830 by Haitian apothecary Antoine Amédée Peychaud, add a lighter, sweeter, and more floral aroma than angostura bitters. Both can be found at well-stocked liquor stores.
Crafting the Perfect Vieux Carré
With just eight ingredients and under 5 minutes of preparation time, this easy-to-make cocktail is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 3/4 ounce rye whiskey
- 3/4 ounce Cognac
- 3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
- 1 barspoon (1 teaspoon) Bénédictine liqueur
- 1 dash Peychaud’s Bitters
- 1 dash angostura bitters
- Ice
- Lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions:
- Chill Your Glass: Place a cocktail glass in the freezer to chill.
- Mix and Mingle: In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, Cognac, and vermouth. Add the Bénédictine liqueur and both bitters.
- Add Ice and Stir: Fill the mixing glass halfway with ice and stir with a barspoon until chilled, about 30 seconds.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into the chilled cocktail glass. Rub the lemon twist around the rim of the glass, drop it in the cocktail, and serve.
With its complex flavors and effortless preparation, the Vieux Carré is sure to become your new favorite cocktail. So why not give it a try and experience a taste of New Orleans in every sip?
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