Sazerac
The Sazerac is a potent and aromatic cocktail that serves as a cornerstone of New Orleans' rich cultural heritage. It is a sophisticated blend of spicy rye whiskey, the unique herbal complexity of Peychaud's Bitters, and a touch of sweetness. Its defining characteristic is the absinthe rinse, which coats the glass to impart a distinct anise aroma without overpowering the drink. Served straight up with the essence of a lemon peel, it is a true connoisseur's choice.
Preparation
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Preparation time
Difficulty
Drink Classification
The Sazerac is categorized as a classic cocktail, celebrated as one of the oldest American cocktails in existence. It is often served as an aperitif due to its strong, spirit-forward nature which stimulates the appetite. Its historical significance places it firmly in the pantheon of timeless drinks.
Serving
This is a strong, spirit-forward cocktail served cold and 'straight up' (without ice) in a chilled Old Fashioned glass that has been rinsed with absinthe.
Serving size
Approximately 90 ml / 3 oz
Alcohol content
Approximately 35-40% ABV
Alcohol strength
Serving temperature
Cold
Glass type
Old Fashioned glass
Glass treatment
Chilled, with an absinthe rinse
Backstory
Often cited as America's first cocktail, the Sazerac originated in mid-1800s New Orleans. Apothecary Antoine Amédée Peychaud created his eponymous bitters and served them in a brandy toddy to his friends. The drink was famously served at the Sazerac Coffee House, which eventually swapped the original cognac for more readily available American rye whiskey. The absinthe rinse was added later, solidifying the iconic recipe we know today.
Origin
New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, circa 1850s.
Sazerac
The drink is consistently known as the Sazerac, named after the Sazerac de Forge et Fils brand of cognac that was its original main ingredient. It is sometimes referred to as the Sazerac Cocktail to be specific. It holds the prestigious title of the official cocktail of New Orleans.
Original name
Sazerac
Alternative name
Sazerac Cocktail
Characteristics overview
The Sazerac has a complex aroma of anise and lemon over spicy rye, with a smooth, spirit-forward texture. The taste is a balanced interplay of bitterness and slight sweetness, leading to a long, warming finish.
Flavor
Spicy, herbal, anise, licorice, slightly sweet, citrusy
Aroma
Anise, lemon zest, whiskey spice, bitters
Taste balance
Bitter, sweet, strong
Aftertaste
Long, warming, herbal, complex
Fizziness
None
Color appearance
Amber, golden-brown, clear
Texture
Smooth, silky, spirit-forward
Seasonality
Warming, suitable year-round
Flavor intensity & Experience
This is a strong, spirit-forward cocktail with pronounced bitterness and herbal notes balanced by a hint of sweetness. It is a potent, non-carbonated drink with a high flavor intensity.
Sweetness
Saltiness
Sourness
Bitterness
Spiciness
Fruitiness
Creaminess
Carbonation
Ingredients
You will need a base of rye whiskey, complemented by the essential Peychaud's Bitters and a sugar cube. A small amount of absinthe is also crucial for rinsing the glass.
- Rye Whiskey60 ml / 2 ozA high-proof, spicy rye whiskey is traditional and recommended.
- Peychaud's Bitters3 dashesThis specific brand of bitters is essential for an authentic Sazerac flavor.
- Sugar Cube1 cubeCan be substituted with 1 teaspoon of simple syrup.
- Absinthe5 ml / 1 teaspoon (for rinse)Used to coat the inside of the glass, then discarded. Herbsaint is a common substitute.
- Lemon Peel1 stripUsed for expressing oils over the drink for aroma.
Ice type
- Cubed ice for stirring
Mixing equipments
This is a stirred cocktail, requiring a mixing glass, bar spoon, and strainer. A jigger is needed for accurate measurements of the spirits.
- Mixing glass for stirring the ingredients.
- Bar spoon for stirring.
- Jigger for measuring liquids.
- Strainer for holding back the ice.
Instructions
The process involves chilling a glass with an absinthe rinse, separately stirring whiskey with muddled sugar and bitters, and then straining the mixture into the prepared glass. The final touch is expressing lemon oil over the drink.
1. Chill an Old Fashioned glass by filling it with ice and water.
2. In a separate mixing glass, place the sugar cube and add the Peychaud's Bitters. Muddle until the sugar is crushed.
3. Add the rye whiskey to the mixing glass.
4. Fill the mixing glass with cubed ice and stir with a bar spoon until well-chilled, approximately 20-30 seconds.
5. Discard the ice and water from the serving glass.
6. Pour the absinthe into the chilled glass, swirl to coat the entire inner surface, and discard the excess liquid.
7. Strain the chilled whiskey mixture from the mixing glass into the prepared, absinthe-rinsed serving glass.
8. Take a fresh lemon peel and squeeze it over the drink's surface to express its fragrant oils.
9. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass and then discard it. Serve immediately.
Garnishing
The sole garnish is a lemon peel, but its role is crucial. The expressed oils provide a bright, citrus aroma that contrasts with the rich cocktail.
- Lemon Peel: Express the oils over the surface of the drink and rub the rim, then discard.
Dietary Information
This cocktail is naturally caffeine-free, dairy-free, and vegan. However, it is not considered gluten-free because the rye whiskey is derived from a gluten-containing grain.
✓ Contains alcohol
✓ Caffeine-free
✓ Dairy-free
✓ Egg-free
✓ Soy-free
✓ Nut-free
✕ Gluten-free
✓ Vegan-friendly
✓ Vegetarian-friendly
Nutrition information
The Sazerac is a low-carbohydrate and low-sugar cocktail. Its calories, averaging around 200 kcal per serving, come almost entirely from the alcohol content.
Calories
Averagely 180-220 kcal / 750-920 kJ
Calories level
Carbohydrates
Averagely 2-4 grams
Carbohydrate level
Sugar
Averagely 2-4 grams
Sugar level
Occasions
The Sazerac is perfect for a sophisticated cocktail hour or as a contemplative after-dinner sipper. Its classic status makes it suitable for special occasions or any moment you want to impress guests with a historic and flavorful drink.
- Cocktail hour
- Sophisticated gatherings
- After-dinner drink
Pairing suggestions
The Sazerac's bold, spirit-forward profile pairs exceptionally well with rich and savory foods. It is a fantastic companion to a plate of oysters, a charcuterie board with cured meats, or strong cheeses. For a delightful dessert pairing, the complex notes of dark chocolate are a perfect match.
- Oysters Rockefeller
- Rich cheeses
- Charcuterie board
- Dark chocolate
The Sazerac: A Taste of New Orleans History
The Sazerac is the quintessential New Orleans cocktail, a liquid testament to the city's rich history and vibrant culture. It is a potent, aromatic drink that masterfully balances spicy rye whiskey with the unique herbal notes of Peychaud's Bitters and a whisper of anise from an absinthe rinse. Served neat in a chilled glass and garnished with only the fragrant essence of a lemon peel, it offers a sophisticated and memorable sipping experience. A true classic, the Sazerac is a must-try for any serious cocktail enthusiast.