The Sazerac is a classic whiskey cocktail, perfect for those seeking a sophisticated and flavorful libation with a touch of New Orleans charm.
A timeless whiskey cocktail, the Sazerac has a wonderfully rich history. In the early 1800s, the Sazerac cocktail took shape in New Orleans, Louisiana. The cocktail’s history intertwines with Antoine Amédée Peychaud, a local apothecary, who created the original recipe using his own bitters. Peychaud’s bitters was intended as a medicinal tonic. While using it to treat various ailments, he discovered how well the flavour mixed with different spirits. Infused with warm notes of herbs, spices, and a hint of anise, these aromatic bitters add depth and complexity to drinks.
Over time, the Sazerac evolved, transitioning from its initial form with cognac to instead incorporate rye whiskey. The outbreak of the Phylloxera aphid in the late 19th century greatly impacted grapevines, leading to a decline in grape production, including those used for cognac production. A lack of cognac on the market meant that an alternative was necessary for our beloved cocktail! And so the modern version was born.
There are many variations of this recipe online. Some use cognac, as they did historically, a combination of cognac and rye or just rye. Adding a small amount of cognac to your Sazerac can be a little nod to the cocktail’s original recipe. It also provides another subtle layer of complexity and can enhance the flavour profile. In my recipe below, I’m going to use rye whiskey alone. But each to their own!
Watch the video here. If you make this one, don’t forget to tag me on TikTok or Instagram! I love to see it.
Sazerac
Ingredients
- 45 mL rye whiskey
- 12.5 mL rich simple syrup or 1 sugar cube
- 3 shakes Peychaud’s bitters
- Absinthe to rinse
- Lemon zest
Instructions
- In a cocktail mixing glass add rye whiskey, cognac, simple syrup and Peychauds Bitters.
- Add ice and stir for 20-30 seconds to chill. Rinse a chilled rocks glass with absinthe.
- Strain your cocktail in and run the lemon zest along the rim of the glass. You can throw away the lemon zest or use it as a garnish.
Notes
- A rich simple syrup is 2 parts sugar to 1 part water.
Looking for more whiskey cocktails? Try a New York Sour or Hunter cocktail.
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