Vieux Carré
A true New Orleans classic, the Vieux Carré (pronounced "voo ka-ray") is a sophisticated, spirit-forward cocktail with incredible depth. Named after the city's French Quarter, it's a complex and layered blend of rye whiskey, Cognac, sweet vermouth, and herbal liqueurs.
Ingredients
- ¾ oz Rye Whiskey
- ¾ oz Cognac
- ¾ oz Sweet Vermouth
- 1 bar spoon Bénédictine D.O.M.
- 2 dashes Peychaud's Bitters
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Garnish: Lemon Twist or a Cherry
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: Add all ingredients—rye whiskey, Cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and both bitters—to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir Until Chilled: Stir with a bar spoon for about 20-30 seconds until the drink is perfectly chilled and diluted.
- Strain and Serve: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over a single large ice cube.
- Garnish: Express the oils from a lemon peel over the surface of the drink and drop it in, or garnish with a quality cocktail cherry.
Pro Tips for Perfection
Don't Skip the Bénédictine: The small amount of Bénédictine D.O.M. is crucial. This sweet, herbal French liqueur adds a unique layer of complexity with notes of honey and spice that ties all the other ingredients together.
Two Bitters Are Better Than One: A true Vieux Carré uses both Peychaud's and Angostura bitters. The Peychaud's provides bright, floral, anise notes, while the Angostura adds a grounding, spicy depth. Together, they create an aromatic complexity that is essential to the drink.