Vieux Carré

The Vieux Carré is at once boozy, sweet, bitter, and smooth—in other words, it’s New Orleans in a glass. The drink features several strong ingredients. In most cases, rye or cognac could carry a cocktail on their own, but the Vieux Carré calls for both in a split-base technique that allows each component to shine. The rye provides muscular spice, while the cognac lends softer notes of fruit and florals. Sweet vermouth adds rich botanicals, while Bénédictine brings its distinct flavors of herbs, spices, and honey. Finally, the bitters add structure and seasoning. Each element has a role to play; when combined, the ingredients meld seamlessly.

• 1.25 oz rye
• 1.25 oz cognac
• 1 oz sweet vermouth
• 1 bar spoon Benedictine
• 1 dash Angostura
• 1 dash Peychaud’s
• Stirred, strained, and garnished with a lemon twist