A true New Orleans classic, the Vieux Carré is a smooth, spirit-forward cocktail with rich, layered flavors. It’s a perfect balance of rye whiskey, cognac, and sweet vermouth, rounded out with herbal Bénédictine and two types of bitters. Whether you’re a longtime fan or making it for the first time, this is one drink that always impresses.
Vieux Carré
Ingredients
You’ll need:
- 0.75 oz (22ml) rye whiskey
- 0.75 oz (22ml) cognac
- 0.75 oz (22ml) sweet vermouth
- 0.25 oz (7ml) Bénédictine
- 1 dash Peychaud’s bitters
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- Lemon peel, for garnish
- Ice, for stirring and serving
Glass: A rocks glass (or Old-Fashioned glass) is the traditional choice, letting you fully enjoy the cocktail’s deep color and aroma.
How to Make It
- Fill a mixing glass with ice, then add the rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and both bitters.
- Stir for about 30 seconds, or until the outside of the glass feels cold.
- Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Take a lemon peel, twist it over the drink to release its oils, then drop it in as a garnish.
That’s it! A smooth, complex cocktail with just the right amount of spice, sweetness, and herbal depth.
Tips for the Best Vieux Carré
- Use quality spirits. Since this is a spirit-forward drink, better ingredients make a noticeable difference.
- Chill your glass. A cold glass keeps the drink perfectly chilled longer.
- Don’t rush the stirring. Stirring properly ensures the right dilution—too little and the flavors won’t blend; too much and it gets watery.
Variations & Substitutions
Want to tweak the classic recipe? Try these swaps:
- Bourbon instead of rye – Makes the drink a little sweeter and rounder.
- Dry vermouth instead of sweet – Lightens the drink and reduces sweetness.
- Chartreuse instead of Bénédictine – Adds a different herbal complexity.
For a non-alcoholic version, mix herbal tea, a dash of non-alcoholic bitters, and a splash of lemon juice. Serve it over ice with a twist of lemon for a refreshing, booze-free alternative.
What to Serve with a Vieux Carré
This cocktail pairs beautifully with bold, rich flavors:
- Aged cheeses – Try Gouda or blue cheese for a savory balance.
- Dark chocolate – The bittersweet contrast complements the drink’s herbal notes.
- Grilled meats – The smoky, charred flavors work well with the cocktail’s warmth.
Make-Ahead & Storage
- Batch it! You can mix a larger quantity ahead of time—just leave out the ice until ready to serve. Stir well before pouring.
- Leftovers? Store any extra in a sealed bottle in the fridge for up to 24 hours.
Common Questions
What’s the ideal rye-to-cognac ratio?
Stick with equal parts (0.75 oz each) for the perfect balance.
Can I use just one type of bitters?
You can, but Peychaud’s and Angostura together create the signature Vieux Carré flavor.
How long should I stir the drink?
Around 30 seconds, until the glass feels cold to the touch.
Why use a lemon peel garnish?
It adds a subtle citrus aroma that brightens up the drink.
The Vieux Carré isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a taste of New Orleans history in a glass. Whether you stick to the classic or try a variation, it’s one of those drinks that always feels special. Cheers!
