Classic Vieux Carré Cocktail Recipe

Name: Classic Vieux Carré Cocktail Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Total time: 5 min
Yield: 1 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 30 ml rye whiskey; 30 ml cognac; 30 ml sweet vermouth; 1 dash Peychaud's bitters; 1 dash Angostura bitters; 1 teaspoon Benedictine; lemon twist (for garnish); ice (for mixing)

5 min 1 servings Easy

All Recipes

Discover the rich flavours of a classic Vieux Carré cocktail, a timeless New Orleans beverage that blends whiskey, cognac, and bitters for a sophisticated sip.

Prep

5 min

Total

5 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

The Vieux Carré cocktail is a classic drink that hails from New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant culture and culinary delights. Named after the French Quarter, locally known as the Vieux Carré, this cocktail is a harmonious blend of rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, and bitters. This version stays true to its roots, paying homage to the original recipe invented in the 1930s at the Hotel Monteleone. The Vieux Carré is perfect for those who appreciate complex, spirit-forward cocktails with a balanced profile of sweetness and spice. Whether you're a cocktail aficionado or someone looking to expand your palate, this recipe offers a taste of New Orleans' rich history and tradition.

Instructions

Prepare the glass

Chill a rocks glass by filling it with ice water. Let it sit while you prepare the cocktail.

Pro tip: Chilling the glass helps to keep the cocktail cold longer.

Mix the base spirits

In a mixing glass, combine 30 ml of rye whiskey, 30 ml of cognac, and 30 ml of sweet vermouth.

Pro tip: Use a jigger for precise measurement.

Add bitters and Benedictine

Add 1 dash each of Peychaud's bitters and Angostura bitters, and 1 teaspoon of Benedictine.

Pro tip: Adjust the amount of bitters to suit your taste.

Stir the mixture

Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds until well chilled.

Pro tip: Stirring rather than shaking preserves the clarity of the drink.

Prepare to serve

Discard the ice water from the chilled rocks glass and add fresh ice cubes.

Pro tip: Large ice cubes work best to minimize dilution.

Strain and garnish

Using a strainer, pour the cocktail into the prepared rocks glass. Garnish with a twist of lemon peel.

Pro tip: Express the lemon peel over the drink to release essential oils.

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Tips & Tricks

Use a quality rye whiskey to enhance the spicy notes.
Chill your glassware before serving for a refreshing experience.
Adjust the bitters to suit your personal preference.
Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavour.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Vieux Carré cocktail?

A Vieux Carré cocktail is a classic New Orleans drink made with rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, and bitters.

How many calories are in a Vieux Carré cocktail?

A Vieux Carré cocktail contains approximately 220 calories per serving.

What type of whiskey is used in a Vieux Carré cocktail?

Rye whiskey is traditionally used in a Vieux Carré cocktail for its spicy notes.

Can I make a Vieux Carré cocktail in advance?

Yes, you can mix the ingredients ahead of time and store in the refrigerator for up to a day without ice.

What is the origin of the Vieux Carré cocktail?

The Vieux Carré cocktail was created in the 1930s at the Hotel Monteleone in New Orleans.

Serving Suggestions

Serve your Vieux Carré in a chilled glass, garnished with a twist of lemon peel for an aromatic touch. Pair this cocktail with rich, savoury dishes like charcuterie or cheese boards to complement its robust flavours. Make ahead by preparing the cocktail mixture and storing it in the fridge for up to a day, adding ice just before serving. This allows the flavours to meld, offering an even more sophisticated sip.

Nutrition per serving

220

Calories

Protein

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