Vieux Carré
A classic New Orleans nightcap served up, blending the spice of Willett rye with the herbal silkiness of Bénédictine.
Ingredients
- 1 oz Rye whiskey — Willett Family Estate 4-Year recommended
- 1 oz Cognac
- 1 oz Sweet vermouth
- 1 barspoon Bénédictine
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 dashes Peychaud's bitters
Story
To finish the night, I asked for a grounding nightcap — back to whiskey. The home bar was out of large ice rocks, so we couldn’t go to a Monte Carlo or another Old Fashioned variant. You suggested serving the Vieux Carré up rather than on the rocks, keeping the concentration and velvety texture without the rapid dilution of small cubes. It also let us reuse the Willett rye and Bénédictine from earlier in the evening.
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with plenty of ice.
- Stir for ~30 seconds until very well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora.
Notes
- Traditionally served on the rocks; the up preparation makes it more elegant and concentrated.
- High-proof Willett rye balances the richness of the cognac and Bénédictine — a softer rye can leave it cloying.