Paul Kushner
With each and every taste, the Sazerac is more than just a beverage; it is a trip through history from beginning to end. Over the course of my career as a bartender, I have created a great number of cocktails; and, the Sazerac is one of the drinks that stands out to me. It stands out because of its unique mix of tastes and interesting history. This drink, the Sazerac, will surprise you with its deep roots and rich taste, no matter how experienced you are with cocktails or how new you are to them.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
Sazerac has a lot of different tastes. First, there is a strong rye whiskey base. Next, there is a hint of herbal sweetness from the absinthe and the spicy warmth of Peychaud’s Bitters. The result is a drink that is complex, smells good, and has a smooth end. Its perfect mix of sweetness and spice makes it unique, with a taste that’s both energizing and comforting.
Equipment and Glassware
Three things are needed to make the perfect Sazerac:
Ingredients
- 2 oz. Rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
- A splash of absinthe
- Lemon peel for garnish
Instructions
- Start by chilling an old-fashioned glass.
- In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with Peychaud’s Bitters.
- Add rye whiskey and fill the mixing glass with ice.
- Stir well until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Rinse the chilled glass with absinthe, discarding the excess.
- Strain the whiskey mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
Pro Tips
Use a cold glass and a real sugar cube for the most genuine experience. If you want to get the most out of the drink, don’t forget to rinse the glass with absinthe. The texture will be smoother if you stir the liquid instead of shaking it. Lastly, squeezing the lemon peel over the drink gives it a fresh citrus smell that goes well with everything else.
When to Serve
Anytime is a good time to have a Sazerac, but it really shines after dinner. It’s a great way to start a chat or relax at night because of its complex flavor profile. Serve it when you want to show off your style or have a classy moment by yourself.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
Your Sazerac cocktail will taste better if you use the right types of liquor. You should use Sazerac Rye or Rittenhouse as your base because they have the right amount of spice and sweetness. Peychaud’s Bitters is a must-have because of its genuine, spicy-sweet taste. Lucid or Pernod are great for adding the green notes that absinthe needs without making the drink too strong. When mixed together, these ingredients make the Sazerac’s signature, strongly scented taste.
Similar Cocktails
- Old Fashioned: A classic cocktail that shares the Sazerac’s base of whiskey and bitters.
- Manhattan: Another whiskey-based favorite, but with sweet vermouth and a cherry garnish.
- Vieux Carré: A New Orleans classic with rye, Cognac, sweet vermouth, and Benedictine.
- Whiskey Sour: For those who enjoy the citrusy edge in their cocktails.
- Mint Julep: A refreshing choice with a minty kick, perfect for warmer weather.
History
One of the oldest drinks in America, the Sazerac has roots in New Orleans dating back to the 1800s. Originally made with Cognac and then rye whiskey, it has changed over time while staying true to its roots. There is a story behind the Sazerac, and every sip brings the spirit of New Orleans to life.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Rye whiskey
- 1 pc sugar cube
- 2 dashes Peychaud's Bitters
- A splash of absinthe
- Lemon peel for garnish
Instructions
- Start by chilling an old-fashioned glass.
- In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with Peychaud's Bitters.
- Add rye whiskey and fill the mixing glass with ice.
- Stir well until the mixture is well-chilled.
- Rinse the chilled glass with absinthe, discarding the excess.
- Strain the whiskey mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.
