Introduction
The Vieux Carré Cocktail is a distinguished member of the cocktail canon, hailing from the vibrant heart of New Orleans. Named after the French Quarter—"Vieux Carré" means "Old Square"—this drink is a celebration of the city's rich cultural tapestry. With a harmonious blend of rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, and a medley of bitters, it's a cocktail that captures the essence of its birthplace: bold, complex, and undeniably charming.
Invented by Walter Bergeron in the 1930s at the Hotel Monteleone's Carousel Bar, the Vieux Carré is a testament to New Orleans' love affair with spirits and flavors. It's a drink that has stood the test of time, offering a taste of history with every sip. The cocktail's balanced yet robust profile makes it a favorite among those who appreciate the art of mixology.
A fun piece of trivia: the Vieux Carré is one of the few cocktails that prominently features both Peychaud’s and Angostura bitters, adding layers of aromatic complexity that are quintessentially New Orleans. Whether you're a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Vieux Carré is sure to delight your senses.
Ingredients
Creating the Vieux Carré requires a selection of quality ingredients that bring out its unique character. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 oz Rye Whiskey: Opt for a rye whiskey with a strong, spicy profile to complement the other flavors.
- 1 oz Cognac: Choose a smooth, rich cognac to add depth and warmth to the cocktail.
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth: Sweet vermouth provides a touch of sweetness and herbal notes—choose one with a good balance.
- 0.5 tsp Bénédictine: Bénédictine adds a hint of herbal sweetness, rounding out the drink's complexity.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters: Angostura bitters bring a spicy, aromatic element to the mix.
- 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters: Peychaud’s bitters offer a floral, anise-like note that enhances the cocktail's depth.
- 1 Lemon Twist: A lemon twist adds a refreshing citrus aroma and visual appeal.
Instructions
Crafting the Vieux Carré is straightforward with the right technique. Follow these steps to mix a perfect cocktail:
- Shake in an iced cocktail shaker.
- Strain onto fresh ice in a rocks glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
Tips
- Chill your glass before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer.
- Use large ice cubes for less dilution and a slower melt, preserving the drink's integrity.
- Adjust the bitters to suit your taste—more Peychaud’s for a floral note, or extra Angostura for spice.
- Experiment with different brands of rye whiskey and cognac to find your preferred balance.
Conclusion
The Vieux Carré Cocktail is a masterpiece of mixology, embodying the spirit and flavor of New Orleans in every sip. Its blend of rye whiskey, cognac, and bitters creates a symphony of taste that is both complex and inviting. Whether you're enjoying a quiet evening at home or hosting a lively gathering, the Vieux Carré is sure to impress.
Why not take your cocktail exploration further? With the BarBot app, you can dive into a world of flavors, logging your experiences, experimenting with variations, and discovering new favorites. Capture photos of your creations, rate different spirits, and keep notes on your mixology adventures. Download the app today and elevate your cocktail journey with every pour. Cheers to new discoveries!
Vieux Carré Cocktail recipe adapted from Vintage Spirits and Forgotten Cocktails by Ted Haigh.
