Step into the golden age of cocktail culture with the Vieux Carré, a drink as intricate and storied as the French Quarter itself. Created at the whimsical Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone—where the revolving bar lets the room spin as slowly as the stories flow—this cocktail captures the heart and history of New Orleans.
Why You’ll Love the Vieux Carré
With its seamless blend of rye, Cognac, sweet vermouth, and the subtle herbal complexity of Bénédictine, the Vieux Carré is the definition of a spirit-forward classic. The dual bitters—Angostura and Peychaud’s—echo the city’s bold flavors and multicultural soul. This is a cocktail for savoring, whether you’re relaxing at home, hosting fellow cocktail lovers, or dreaming of French Quarter nights.
🍸 Vieux Carré Cocktail Recipe
Servings: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Ingredients
- 1 oz rye whiskey
- 1 oz Cognac
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- ½ tsp Bénédictine
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
- Ice
Instructions
- Fill a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Add the rye, Cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, Angostura bitters, and Peychaud’s bitters.
- Shake vigorously until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled Martini or old-fashioned glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist or cherry if desired.
Pro Tip: For a more classic approach, stir all ingredients with ice instead of shaking for a perfectly clear and silky-smooth cocktail.
Flavor Notes & Personalization
- Spirit Harmony: The rye whiskey brings spice, while Cognac lends a mellow richness.
- Balance & Depth: Sweet vermouth and Bénédictine add herbal, honeyed undertones; bitters tie all the flavors together elegantly.
- Custom Twist: Try a higher-proof rye, swap in a different amaro for complexity, or finish with a smoky rinse for a modern touch.
The Spirit of New Orleans
Pour a Vieux Carré when you want a drink that tells a story—of jazz age legends, laid-back Southern charm, and the legendary bars of New Orleans. Whether you’re crafting it for yourself or sharing the ritual with friends, this cocktail offers a timeless taste of the Crescent City’s vibrant cocktail scene. Cheers to slow spins, good company, and unforgettable sips!