A New Orleans Classic – The Vieux Carre Cocktail

Walter Bergeron created the Vieux Carre cocktail at the Carousel Bar in New Orleans in the 1930’s. The drink takes its name from the City’s French Quarter.

The Carousel Bar is one of the bars that make New Orleans a center for classic cocktails. The bar itself rotates around the bartenders making this one of the world’s legendary drinking spots.

A Manhattan in Disguise

So, looking at the spec for the Vieux Carre you might not immediately recognize it as a kind Manhattan. That is because it is cleverly disguised.

The classic Manhattan ratio is 2-1-2. Two part sprit, one part vermouth and two dashes of bitters. In its simplest form that is three ingredients. The Vieux Carre has 5 ingredients.

So, how does that work? Well, if you look a little closer you will see that the two ounces of spirit is split between Cognac and Bourbon (or Rye). You will split the two dashes of bitters between Angostura and Peychaud’s.

Finally, there is a touch of Benedictine in there. So, we’re extending and sweetening the typical Manhattan just a little.

 Vieux Carre – Flavor Notes

The Vieux Carre cocktail is a bold, complex, spirit-forward drink.  It starts with rye,  Angostura bitters and sweet vermouth, the classic elements of the Manhattan. Cognac, Benedictine, and Peychaud’s bitters add depth and complexity to this classic cocktail.

Benedictine is a sweet, aromatic, herbal liqueur from France. Antoine Peychaud created Peychaud’s bitter in New Orlean’s in the early 1800. They are one of the oldest bitters brands still in existense. They are lighter and sweeter than Angostura with a hint of anise. The Cognac complements the rye while introducing grape and wine notes. This classic cocktail is a unique blend of French and American flavors that reflect the city itself.

Vieux Carre

The Vieux Carre is a classic New Orleans bourbon cocktail.

  • 1 oz VSOP Cognac
  • 1 oz rye whiskey
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 1 tsp Benedictine
  • 1 dash Angostura bitters
  • 1 dash Peychaud’s bitters
  1. In a mixing glass filled with ice add Cognac, rye, vermouth and bitters.
  2. Stir well and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.