The Vieux Carré is a complex yet powerful cocktail that blends rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine liqueur, and bitters. This drink has rightfully earned its place among the cocktail greats. Its distinctive character comes from the spiciness of the whiskey, the silky sweetness of the cognac, and the rich depth of the vermouth. The Vieux Carré is an exceptionally sophisticated drink with a perfectly balanced split base. Each spirit contributes equally, letting every flavor stand out on its own while blending beautifully together.
Story
The Vieux Carré was first mixed in the 1930s in New Orleans, at the legendary Carousel Bar & Lounge inside the Hotel Monteleone. Its creator, Walter Bergeron, was the bar’s manager at the time. The cocktail’s name comes from the French Quarter of New Orleans, historically known as Vieux Carré—the “Old Square.” It’s fitting that a city so rich in culture and history gave birth to many classic cocktails, including the iconic Sazerac. Since its creation, the Vieux Carré has remained one of New Orleans’ most celebrated drinks.
Ingredients
1 oz (30 ml) rye whiskey
1 oz (30 ml) cognac
1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
⅓ oz (10 ml) Benedictine liqueur
2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
2 dashes Angostura bitters
How to Make a Vieux Carré Cocktail
You don’t need a shaker for this one. Fill a mixing glass with ice, then add the rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine liqueur, and bitters. Stir well for about 20–30 seconds to chill and blend the drink properly. Strain into a chilled Old Fashioned glass filled with ice cubes.
Serving and Garnish
Traditionally, the Vieux Carré is served in an Old Fashioned glass. For garnish, twist a strip of lemon peel over the drink to release its essential oils, then either rest it on the rim or drop it into the glass. A cocktail cherry on a skewer is also a classic touch.
Calorie Content
A single serving of a Vieux Carré Cocktail contains approximately 180–200 calories—a reflection of its rich, spirit-forward composition.