In the heart of New Orleans, a city steeped in history and known for its vibrant culture, there exists a cocktail that encapsulates the essence of this iconic place. The Sazerac, widely regarded as America’s first true cocktail, is a delightful mix of rye whiskey, absinthe, and a touch of enchantment. Its history is as rich and captivating as the city that gave it life.
Created in 1838 at the Sazerac Coffee House, this legendary cocktail has stood the test of time as a great American classic.
Ingredients:
2 oz rye whiskey
1 sugar cube
3 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
Absinthe rinse
Lemon peel, for garnish
Instructions:
- Begin by chilling an Old Fashioned glass by filling it with ice and setting it aside.
- In a separate glass, muddle the sugar cube with the Peychaud’s bitters until it’s well-dissolved.
- Add the rye whiskey to the sugar and bitters mixture and stir gently.
- Discard the ice from the chilled Old Fashioned glass and rinse it with a small amount of absinthe, swirling it around to coat the interior, and then pouring out the excess.
- Strain the rye whiskey mixture into the absinthe-rinsed glass.
- Hold the lemon peel over the drink and giving it a firm twist to release the citrus oils. Run the peel around the rim of the glass and drop it into the cocktail.
- Enjoy the Sazerac cocktail and savor the timeless flavors and history it holds.
