Mix Up a Classic New Orleans Sazerac

Mix Up a Classic New Orleans Sazerac


Imagine you’re walking down a moon-lit alley and see a black door with a slider window at eye level (are you picturing a New Orleans speakeasy?) You give the password, walk in, and order a Sazerac, one of the modern world’s oldest cocktails and a staple in New Orleans. In fact, in 2008 the state legislature voted the Sazerac as its official cocktail. While it’s a close relative of the Old Fashioned, the Sazerac trademark is an absinthe “rinse” of the glass, and of course, rye whiskey. Introduce your girlfriends to this classic cocktail while you plan your next girls weekend in the Big Easy! 


Ingredients for one cocktail | Multiply by degree of thirst and divide by number of girlfriends!


¼ ounce absinthe, or similar anise-flavored liqueur like ricard or pernod

2 ounces rye whiskey (can substitute brandy)

¼ ounce simple syrup

4 dashes peychaud’s bitters

Lemon (for garnish)


Step 1

Pour absinthe into chilled rocks glass. Swirl to coat interior, then discard excess.


Step 2

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine whiskey, simple syrup and bitters. Stir until well chilled, 30–40 seconds. Strain into absinthe-rinsed glass without ice. 


Step 3

Garnish with lemon twist and serve neat.


For a perfect pairing, enjoy with our New Orleans Jambalaya.


Recipe source: https://www.winemag.com/recipe/how-to-make-a-classic-sazerac/


Photo source: Unsplash

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