Vieux Carré

Vieux Carré

The Vieux Carré cocktail is a classic and sophisticated drink that has been enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts for decades. It is a complex and balanced drink that is made with a combination of cognac, rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters. The Vieux Carré, French for “Old Square”, is named after the French Quarter in New Orleans, Louisiana, where it was first created.

The origins of the Vieux Carré can be traced back to the 1930s, at the iconic Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans. The hotel’s head bartender, Walter Bergeron, is credited with creating the cocktail. The drink was first served at the hotel’s revolving Carousel Bar, which is still in operation today.

Directions

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice
2. Add 30ml/1oz of Cognac
3. Add 30ml/1oz of Rye Whiskey
4. Add 30ml/1oz of Sweet Vermouth
5. Add 8ml/.25oz of Benedictine
6. Add 2 Dashes of Peychaud’s Bitters
7. Add 2 Dashes of Aromatic Bitters
8. Shake well and strain into a chilled old fashioned glass.
9. Garnish with a lemon Twist

The Vieux Carré is typically served in an Old Fashioned glass, and it is garnished with a lemon twist, which adds a refreshing aroma to the drink.

The Vieux Carré is a complex and balanced drink that is perfect for those who appreciate a sophisticated and elegant cocktail. The cognac adds a smooth, rich flavor and a complex aroma, while the rye whiskey adds a spicy and robust flavor. The sweet vermouth adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of herbaceousness, while the Benedictine adds a subtle sweetness and a hint of honey. The Peychaud’s bitters and Angostura bitters add a subtle bitterness and a touch of complexity to the drink.

The Vieux Carré is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed at any time of the day or night. It is perfect for sipping before dinner, as an aperitif or after dinner as a digestif. It is also a great choice for special occasions such as weddings, parties, and other celebrations.

So, the next time you find yourself in the vibrant streets of New Orleans, be sure to raise a glass to the city’s rich heritage with a Vieux Carré in hand. For in that moment, you’ll not only be savoring a cocktail but experiencing a taste of the timeless elegance that defines the soul of the French Quarter. Cheers to the Vieux Carré – a true classic in every sense of the word.