Sazerac

Sazerac is a bold, smooth cocktail recipe with deep spice, gentle sweetness, and a clean finish. This classic drink feels rich and elegant, with a warming sip that lingers in a refined way. If you want to know how to enjoy a timeless favorite, the Sazerac offers a stylish and memorable drinking experience.

Glass

Old Fashioned Glass

Prep Time

5 min

Difficulty

Advanced

Alchol

Ingredients

1

Absinthe rinse (optional)

2

2 oz rye whiskey

3

1 sugar cube

4

3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters

5

1 dash Angostura bitters

6

Garnish: Lemon twist

Steps

1

Step 1

Chill an old fashioned glass, then discard the ice and rinse the glass with absinthe.
2

Step 2

In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, sugar, and Peychaud's bitters.
3

Step 3

Add ice and stir well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
4

Step 4

Strain the mixture into the absinthe rinsed glass.
5

Step 5

Express the oils from a lemon peel over the drink, then garnish with the peel.

Flavor Profile

History

The Sazerac is one of the oldest classic cocktails in the United States and is closely linked to New Orleans. It began in the 1800s, evolving from a brandy drink made with Sazerac de Forge et Fils cognac into the rye whiskey version known today. The Sazerac remains an important part of New Orleans cocktail culture and is often recognized as a symbol of the city’s drinking history.

FAQ

What is a Sazerac cocktail?
A Sazerac is a classic New Orleans cocktail made with rye whiskey or cognac, sugar, Peychaud’s Bitters, and an absinthe rinse. It is known for its bold, aromatic flavor and is often considered one of the oldest American cocktails.
What alcohol is in a Sazerac?
A traditional Sazerac uses rye whiskey, though some older versions use cognac. It also includes a small absinthe rinse, which adds a distinct herbal aroma without making the drink taste strongly like licorice.
Can you make a Sazerac without absinthe?
Yes, but the flavor will be slightly different. If you do not have absinthe, you can use Herbsaint or another anise flavored spirit for a similar effect.
What does a Sazerac taste like?
A Sazerac tastes strong, spirit forward, and slightly spicy, with notes of herbs, citrus, and a touch of sweetness. The bitters and absinthe give it a layered, complex finish.
Is a Sazerac served with ice?
A Sazerac is usually served neat in a chilled glass after being stirred with ice and then strained. It is not typically served over ice, which helps keep the flavor concentrated and smooth.
What is the difference between a Sazerac and an Old Fashioned?
Both are whiskey based cocktails, but a Sazerac uses Peychaud’s Bitters and an absinthe rinse, while an Old Fashioned usually uses Angostura bitters and no absinthe. The Sazerac tends to taste more aromatic and slightly more herbal.