Paul Kushner
If you are a fan of whiskey cocktails, you may have heard of the Sazerac. This classic cocktail is a variation of a cognac or whiskey cocktail that originated in New Orleans in the 19th century. The Sazerac is named after the Sazerac de Forge et Fils brand of cognac brandy that was originally used to make the drink. The Sazerac has a rich history and is considered by many to be the oldest known American cocktail.
It has been a favorite of whiskey lovers for over a century and continues to be a popular choice at bars and restaurants around the world. Whether you are a seasoned whiskey drinker or just looking to try something new, the Sazerac is a must-try cocktail that is sure to impress.
History
The Sazerac cocktail boasts a captivating history that traces its origins back to the mid-1800s in New Orleans, Louisiana. Initially, it was crafted using cognac, absinthe, sugar, and Peychaud’s bitters, taking its name from the renowned Sazerac Coffee House nestled in the city’s French Quarter. During the Civil War, the scarcity of cognac prompted a shift to rye whiskey in the recipe, shaping the Sazerac as we now recognize it. This contemporary version retained its allure and was officially designated as the cocktail of New Orleans in 2008, often earning the moniker “Old-Fashioned of New Orleans.”
Founded by Thomas H. Handy in 1869, the Sazerac Company took its name from Handy’s acquisition of the Sazerac Coffee House. Over time, it expanded its portfolio, evolving into one of the globe’s largest spirits enterprises. In 2019, the Sazerac Company inaugurated the Sazerac House in the heart of the French Quarter—a museum and interactive space commemorating the Sazerac cocktail’s history and the company that birthed it. With exhibitions, tastings, and a gift shop, the Sazerac House offers an immersive exploration of this iconic cocktail’s enthralling journey.
In sum, the Sazerac cocktail’s captivating narrative intricately weaves through New Orleans’ tapestry and the Sazerac Company’s legacy, whether savored in a bar or discovered at the Sazerac House, this classic libation is guaranteed to leave a lasting impression.
How to Make It
Sazerac
If you want to make a delicious Sazerac cocktail, you'll need a few key ingredients and some basic knowledge of how to mix them together.
Here's how you can make your own Sazerac cocktail at home:
Ingredients
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- 1/4 oz absinthe or anise liqueur (to rinse)
- 1 sugar cube
- Garnish with a lemon twist
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Gather your ingredients and pre-chill your glass by filling it with ice
- In a separate mixing glass, soak the sugar cube with bitters and then muddle to crush it
- Add the rye whiskey to the mixture and stir
- Empty the ice from your glass and then choose between anise or absinthe for rinsing
- Pour a small amount of your chosen liqueur into the glass
- Gently swirl and discard the excess
- Add the whiskey mixture to the glass you rinsed
- Express the lemon twist to release the fragrant oils and essence
- Discard the twist or add it as a garnish to the rim
- Serve, sip, and enjoy
Notes
If you prefer a sweeter cocktail, you can add a small amount of simple syrup or demerara syrup to the mixing glass before adding the whiskey.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of whiskey, such as bourbon or single malts, and different types of bitters, such as aromatic bitters, to create your own unique twist on the classic Sazerac recipe
Variations
If you’re a fan of the Sazerac cocktail, you’ll be happy to know that there are several variations to try. Here are a few to consider:
Rye or Bourbon
The classic Sazerac recipe calls for rye whiskey, but some people prefer the sweetness of bourbon instead. Feel free to experiment with both and see which you prefer.
Herbsaint
Absinthe can be hard to find, so some people use Herbsaint or another anise-flavored liquor as a substitute. While not exactly the same, it still adds that distinctive anise flavor to the cocktail.
Creole bitters
While the original recipe calls for Peychaud’s bitters, you can also try using Creole bitters for a slightly different flavor profile. These bitters are made with a blend of herbs and spices, including anise and cloves.
Trademarked Sazerac
If you want to stick to the original recipe but with a twist, try using the trademarked Sazerac Rye whiskey. This whiskey is made specifically for the Sazerac cocktail and has a slightly different flavor profile than other rye whiskeys.
Sazerac Manhattan
If you’re a fan of the Manhattan cocktail, try adding a Sazerac twist. Use rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, but add a rinse of absinthe to the glass before pouring in the cocktail.
Sazerac party punch
If you’re hosting a party and want to serve a large batch of Sazerac cocktails, try making a punch version. Mix together rye whiskey, simple syrup, bitters, and a splash of absinthe. Serve over ice with a lemon twist. Overall, the Sazerac cocktail is a versatile drink that can be customized to your liking. Whether you prefer rye or bourbon, absinthe or pastis, there’s a Sazerac variation out there for you to try.
What alcohol is typically used in a Sazerac cocktail?
The traditional Sazerac cocktail is made with rye whiskey, but some variations use cognac or brandy.
What are the ingredients in a Sazerac cocktail besides Peychaud’s bitters?
In addition to Peychaud’s bitters, a Sazerac cocktail typically includes absinthe or Herbsaint, sugar, and a lemon peel.
What is the difference between an Old Fashioned and a Sazerac cocktail?
While both cocktails are made with sugar, bitters, and whiskey, the Sazerac uses absinthe or Herbsaint and a lemon peel, while the Old Fashioned uses orange and cherry garnishes.
What does a Sazerac cocktail taste like?
A Sazerac cocktail has a complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel, spice, and herbs. The absinthe or Herbsaint adds a subtle anise flavor.
What is the history behind the Sazerac cocktail?
The Sazerac cocktail originated in New Orleans in the mid-1800s and was originally made with cognac. It later evolved to include rye whiskey and became one of the city’s most popular cocktails.
What type of liquor is used in a Sazerac rye cocktail?
As the name suggests, a Sazerac rye cocktail is made with rye whiskey instead of cognac or brandy. This gives the cocktail a spicier flavor profile than the original version.
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