Classic New Orleans Vieux Carré Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

  • 1 ounce rye whiskey
  • 1 ounce cognac
  • 1 ounce sweet vermouth
  • 1 teaspoon Bénédictine D.O.M
  • 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • 1 cherry for garnish
  • 1 lemon peel for garnish
  • Ice cubes

Steps and instructions

  1. Start by filling a mixing glass with ice.
  2. Add in the rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, and Bénédictine to the glass with ice.
  3. Add the Peychaud’s Bitters and Angostura Bitters into the glass.
  4. Stir the ingredients in the glass until well combined and chilled.
  5. Strain the mixture into a chilled old-fashioned glass filled with ice.
  6. Garnish with a cherry and a lemon peel.
  7. Serve immediately and enjoy your Vieux Carré.

Tools for making

  • Mixing glass - A glass container used for stirring and mixing cocktail ingredients.
  • Old-fashioned glass - A short tumbler used for serving the Vieux Carré cocktail.
  • Bar spoon - A long-handled spoon used for stirring cocktails.
  • Strainer - A tool used to separate ice and other solid ingredients from the liquid when pouring cocktails.
  • Ice cubes - Used to chill the cocktail and keep it cold.
  • Cherry - A garnish that adds a touch of sweetness and aesthetic appeal to the cocktail.
  • Lemon peel - A twist of lemon peel used as a garnish to enhance the aroma and visual presentation of the cocktail.

Recipe variations

  • Use different types of whiskey such as bourbon or Canadian whisky.
  • Experiment with different types of vermouth, such as dry vermouth or a combination of sweet and dry vermouth.
  • Try different brands or flavors of bitters to add a unique twist to the drink.
  • Adjust the amount of Bénédictine according to personal taste preferences.
  • Consider adding a splash of absinthe for an extra herbal note.
  • Garnish with different fruits or herbs, such as orange peel or a sprig of fresh mint.
  • For a lighter version, use sparkling water or club soda to top off the drink.
  • Add a dash of maple syrup or honey for a touch of sweetness.

Recipe overview

The Vieux Carré is a classic cocktail that hails from the vibrant city of New Orleans. Named after the French term for the city's French Quarter, this drink is as rich and diverse as the area it's named after. Renowned for its layers of complexity, Vieux Carré is a potent mix of rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth and a hint of Bénédictine D.O.M. The cocktail is further enhanced with the addition of two kinds of bitters - Peychaud’s and Angostura. Finished off with a cherry and lemon peel garnish, this cocktail is a journey of flavors. This recipe will guide you through preparing this sophisticated cocktail to perfection. Don't be daunted by its complexity, though! The steps are straightforward, and the result is a beautifully balanced, smooth and strong cocktail. Enjoy the process and the delicious end result.

Common questions

  1. Can I substitute the rye whiskey with another type of whiskey? Absolutely! If you prefer a different type of whiskey, such as bourbon or Canadian whiskey, feel free to substitute it for the rye whiskey in this recipe.
  2. Is there a non-alcoholic version of Vieux Carré? Yes, you can make a non-alcoholic version of Vieux Carré by replacing the whiskey and cognac with non-alcoholic alternatives, such as non-alcoholic whiskey or bourbon substitutes.
  3. What is the purpose of the Bénédictine in this recipe? Bénédictine is a herbal liqueur that adds a unique and complex flavor to the Vieux Carré cocktail. It brings a subtle sweetness and herbal notes to balance out the other ingredients.
  4. Can I make Vieux Carré without the bitters? While the bitters contribute to the distinct flavor profile of Vieux Carré, you can omit them if you don't have them on hand. However, keep in mind that the taste may differ slightly.
  5. Can I use a different garnish instead of a cherry and lemon peel? Certainly! Though traditionally garnished with a cherry and lemon peel, you can get creative and use other garnishes like orange peel or a cocktail umbrella to add a personal touch.
  6. Can I make a larger batch of Vieux Carré? Absolutely! Simply multiply the ingredient quantities by the number of servings you wish to make. Keep in mind that you may need a larger mixing glass or pitcher to accommodate the increased volume.

Serving dishes and utensils

Origin stories

In the heart of the French Quarter of New Orleans, there's a charming hotel named the Monteleone. This isn't any ordinary hotel, it's been a beacon of Southern hospitality since 1886. In its famous Carousel Bar, which literally rotates as you sip your drink, a bartender by the name of Walter Bergeron created the Vieux Carré cocktail in the 1930s. The cocktail's name translates as "old square," which is a historic term for the French Quarter itself. The drink is a delightful blend of local and international spirits, embodying the cultural melting pot that is New Orleans. Each sip is like a walk down the cobblestone streets of the Quarter, a smooth blend of the old world charm and new world audacity that defines the Big Easy.

Disclaimer: This recipe was not created by humans and we cannot ensure that it will turn out as expected. We do not guarantee or take any liability for the accuracy of this recipe (including steps, ingredients, nutritional information, and all sections on this page). You should check to make sure you are not allergic to any ingredients and take safety precautions while making this. The images on this page are generated by AI and may not accurately represent the result of making this recipe.