Sazerac Cocktail

Mix up the perfect classic cocktail with this Sazerac recipe. You will learn how to make a balanced Sazerac Cocktail with the perfect whiskey, bitters, and absinthe with our easy-to-follow recipe. Craft a classic cocktail like a pro and discover the history of this iconic alcoholic drink.

If you haven’t tried a Sazerac Cocktail yet, you’re missing out on a classic that has been enjoyed for over a century. The Sazerac’s origin can be traced back to New Orleans. A simple blend of Rye Whiskey, Absinthe, Bitters, and Simple Syrup. 

Like our Old Fashioned, this Prohibition Cocktail will quickly become a favorite whiskey cocktail that has stood the test of time. 

What is a Sazerac?

To fully appreciate the Sazerac Cocktail, it’s interesting to know a little bit about its history. This classic cocktail has been around for over a century, and its origins can be traced back to New Orleans in the mid-1800s. Originally, the Sazerac was made with cognac as its base but thankfully Rye Whiskey replaced the cognac and we have this amazing cocktail. 

Today, the Sazerac is still just as popular as ever and is known for its complex and nuanced flavor profile. It’s a bit of an acquired taste, but for those who appreciate the art of mixology, the Sazerac is a must-try cocktail. So, now that you know a little bit about the history of the Sazerac, let’s dive into the ingredient that can take your recipe to the next level.

Sazerac Ingredients

While the traditional recipe calls for a sugar cube and Peychaud’s bitters, the addition of absinthe is what sets the Sazerac apart from other whiskey cocktails. 

• Absinthe – Just a mist. 
• Rye Whiskey – The best Rye for a Sazerac is Minor Case or Sazarec Rye. 
• Simple Syrup
• Peychaud’s Bitters

A mist of absinthe is added to the glass to coat the inside before the rest of the ingredients are added. This not only adds a subtle note of anise to the drink but also gives it a unique aroma and a hint of complexity.

But be warned, a little goes a long way. Adding too much absinthe can easily overpower the other flavors in the cocktail. 

How to Make a Sazerac

To incorporate absinthe into your Sazerac cocktail recipe, start by chilling a martini glass in the freezer or with a few cubes of ice. 

In a separate mixing glass, add Rye, Simple Syrup, and Bitters. Add ice to the mixing glass and stir until well chilled. 

Mist the chilled Martini Glass with Absinthe. Strain the contents of the mixing glass into the absinthe-misted glass and garnish with a lemon twist. 

If you do not have a mister you can easily do an Absinthe Rinse of your glass. 

To do an Absinthe Rinse put a small splash of Absinthe in your chilled glass. Swirl the absinthe around coating the sides of the glass.

Next, pour out the excess absinthe. Too much will ruin your Sazerac Drink. 

Now that you know how to make a perfect Sazerac, it’s time to get creative with some variations on the classic recipe.

Variations on the Classic Sazerac

Now that you have the classic Sazerac under your belt, it’s time to experiment with some delicious variations. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

1. Swap out the Rye Whiskey: Instead of using rye whiskey, try using bourbon, cognac, or even a smoky scotch for a more complex flavor.

2. Add a twist of citrus: If you don’t have a lemon try an orange twist. 

3. Sweeten it up: For a sweeter variation, try adding different syrups like honey syrup instead of simple syrup to the cocktail.

4. Swap out Absinthe for Herbsaint. Similar to absinthe, this anise-flavored liqueur has been made in New Orleans since 1934. 

Here is our Recipe for the Best Sazerac Drink