It’s that time of year again, when the cold starts to break and warmer weather gradually begins to grace us with its presence.As the seasons change, we often seek out and welcome food and drink that reflects our surroundings.When things start to heat up, our desire for beverages that quench our thirst and cool us off grows exponentially with the increase in temperature.In a world filled with slushies and punches, there is one classic cocktail that has been helping us usher in Spring and Summer for centuries: Sangria
COCKTAIL: Vieux Carré
Full Ingredients list
- .75oz Lustau Brandy Solera Gran Reserva
- .75oz Lustau Vermut Rojo
- .75oz High West Double Rye Whiskey
- 1 Barspoon Benedictine
- 1 Dash Peychaud’s Bitters
- 1 Dash Angostura Bitters
- Garnish: Maraschino Cherry or and orange peel.
Recipe author: Steven Dragun
WHO INVENTED THE VIEUX CARRÉ?
The Vieux Carre was created in 1938 by Walter Bergeron, the head bartender at what is now known as the Carousel Bar at the Monteleone Hotel in New Orleans, Louisiana.
WHAT IS THE BEST TYPE OF RYE WHISKEY FOR A VIEUX CARRÉ?
Any type of American rye whiskey will work well in a Vieux Carre, so feel free to use your favorite rye or experiment with several types until you find the perfect fit.
WHY BRANDY DE JEREZ IS A GREAT OPTION FOR A VIEUX CARRE?
Brandy de Jerez is different from other brandies because it has its own singular personality which result from its high-quality wine base, the genuine sherry casks and the way the spirit is aged: The “solera y criaderas” dynamic system. These three factors make a perfectly balanced drink, with a great potential to be mixed in many different cocktails.
We have the perfect blog post if you are interested in learning more about Brandy de Jerez, styles and applications. Check this out!
In this case, we are calling for Lustau Brandy de Jerez Solera Gran Reserva, which is aged in oloroso sherry casks, providing nougat notes to this Vieux Carre together with a great length and depth of textures.
WHY LUSTAU VERMUT ROJO IS THE BEST RED VERMOUTH TO USE IN A VIEUX CARRÉ COCKTAIL
Lustau Vermut Rojo is a wonderful choice for the Vieux Carre due to the amontillado sherry used to create this vermouth. The slight oxidative notes from Lustau Vermut Rojo add a bold character that compliments the whiskey and brandy.
HOW TO PREPARE A VIEUX CARRÉ COCKTAIL WITH VERMOUTH IN 4 EASY STEPS
1.Add all ingredients to a mixing glass.
2.Add ice and stir for 30 seconds.
3.Strain into a chilled rock glass with a large ice cube.
4.Garnish with a maraschino cherry or an orange peel for a citrusy touch.
FAQ
What is the meaning of Vieux Carré?
The name Vieux Carre translates to Old Square, in honor of the French Quarter neighborhood in New Orleans.
What’s the difference between Vieux Carré and The Manhattan?
The Vieux Carre uses both Rye Whiskey and Cognac, instead of only whiskey. Additionally, the Vieux Carre is more herbaceous due to the addition of Benedictine and Peychaud’s Bitters.
