Modern Classics: Vieux Carré

The Vieux Carré originated in New Orleans back in the 1930s and is named after what’s now known as the French Quarter. A Vieux Carré is a spirit-forward cocktail that is sweeter and has more of a floral note than an Old Fashioned or Manhattan since most of this drink is made up of sweet liquors. Give this cocktail a try if you want a boozy, but well-balanced drink!

Vieux Carré Recipe (1 serving)

• 1 oz. rye whiskey
• 1 oz. cognac
• 1 oz. sweet vermouth (recommend Carpano’s Antica Formula brand, which also makes a great Manhattan)
• 1 tsp. Benedictine (the brand I use is technically a mix of Benedictine and Brandy, which still works)
• 1 dash Peychaud’s bitters
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• Lemon peel or cherry for garnish

Equipment

• Mixing glass (either a stainless steel shaker container or a glass coffee french press container)
• Jigger
• Teaspoon measure
• Bar spoon
• Hawthorne strainer
• Coupe glass, stored in the freezer

Directions

1. Add all of the liquid into the mixing glass
2. Add 3-4 handfuls of ice and stir with a bar spoon for at least 20 seconds
3. Use the Hawthorn strainer to strain the drink into the coupe glass
4. To garnish, cut a slice of lemon peel and twist into a swirl and drop into the drink

Cheers!