Sazerac

What is the difference between Old Fashioned and a Sazerac cocktail?

An Old Fashioned uses a broader range of base spirits, mostly bourbon, while a Sazerac strictly calls for rye whiskey. The Old Fashioned incorporates Angostura bitters, whereas a Sazerac features Peychaud’s Bitters, giving each cocktail flavor. An Old Fashioned typically includes a citrus garnish like an orange slice or twist and a cherry, while a Sazerac opts for a lemon twist. Additionally, a Sazerac incorporates an absinthe rinse in the glass, which an Old Fashioned does not. Finally, an Old Fashioned is versatile and can be garnished with various fruits, but a Sazerac sticks to its traditional lemon twist. Both cocktails are stirred, not shaken, but the similarities end there.

Best Rye for the Sazerac drink

Choosing the right rye whiskey can make or break your Sazerac experience. Bulleit Rye is a solid start if you’re new to the game. It’s widely available and offers a balanced mix of spice and sweetness. For those who like a bit more kick, Rittenhouse Rye brings a higher proof to the table without overwhelming the palate. But Sazerac Rye is the way if you want to go all-in on authenticity. It’s named after the cocktail itself, and for good reason. This Rye offers a smooth yet spicy profile that complements the other ingredients perfectly. 

Sazerac on the rocks, or neat?

When it comes to serving a Sazerac, go for neat. That means no ice in the glass when you’re sipping it. The reason is simple: ice dilutes the drink and takes away from the complex flavors that make a Sazerac unique.

Variations

Craving more variety? We’ve handpicked a few of our most favored options:

• De La Louisiane Cocktail: This brings a deep, aromatic allure, mixing whiskey with sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and a touch of absinthe. The Benedictine, with its herbal complexity, melds beautifully with the sweet vermouth, offering a rich, velvety layer to the base spirit. I’m drawn to the herbal and sweet interplay here; it creates a depth that’s both intriguing and satisfying, perfect for savoring on a cool evening.
• Bananarac: This introduces a playful twist by incorporating banana liqueur, adding a whimsical, fruity layer that complements the rye’s spiciness. The banana liqueur’s sweetness contrasts with the traditional ingredients, lending a novel, tropical vibe that’s unexpectedly harmonious. I love how the banana flavor adds a lighthearted, exotic touch, making it a standout choice for those looking to enjoy something uniquely delightful.
• Carthusian Sazerac: The Carthusian Sazerac stands out by featuring Chartreuse, a French liqueur known for its complex flavor profile derived from a mix of 130 herbs, plants, and flowers. The Chartreuse adds an herbal intensity that elevates the classic base, introducing a spectrum of flavors that range from earthy to citrusy. The incorporation of Chartreuse brings a bold, vibrant character to the forefront, creating a compelling experience that’s both aromatic and deeply flavorful.

History and Origins

The Sazerac cocktail has its roots in 19th-century New Orleans, Louisiana. Apothecary owner Antoine Peychaud created the drink, featuring his bitters brand as a medicinal tonic. The cocktail initially used cognac as its base spirit, specifically Sazerac-de-Forge et Fils, which lent the drink its name. Over time, rye whiskey replaced cognac, especially after the phylloxera epidemic devastated French vineyards in the late 1800s.

The Roosevelt Hotel in New Orleans claims to be the birthplace of the modern Sazerac, although this is a subject of debate among cocktail historians. Regardless, the hotel’s Sazerac Bar has become a pilgrimage site for cocktail enthusiasts. In 2008, the Louisiana Legislature declared the Sazerac as New Orleans’ official cocktail, cementing its place in cocktail history.