The Sazerac and the Old Fashioned are two classic cocktails that have their own unique characteristics and flavors. While they share some similarities in terms of ingredients, they differ in the type of whiskey used and the specific bitters that are incorporated.
1. Whiskey: The main difference between the Sazerac and the Old Fashioned lies in the type of whiskey used. The Old Fashioned traditionally calls for bourbon, which is a type of American whiskey made primarily from corn. On the other hand, the Sazerac is typically made with rye whiskey, which is made from a mash of rye grains. The choice of whiskey greatly impacts the overall flavor profile of the cocktail.
2. Bitters: Another key distinction lies in the choice of bitters. The Old Fashioned typically uses Angostura bitters, which are made from a blend of herbs and spices. Angostura bitters add a complex and aromatic flavor to the cocktail. In contrast, the Sazerac uses Peychaud's Bitters, which were created by a New Orleans pharmacist named Antoine Amédée Peychaud. These bitters have a distinctive flavor profile with hints of anise and are an integral part of the Sazerac's traditional recipe.
3. Preparation: The preparation of these two cocktails also differs. To make an Old Fashioned, you start by muddling a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters in a glass, then adding bourbon and stirring until the sugar is dissolved. A Sazerac, on the other hand, involves a more elaborate process. It begins by rinsing a chilled glass with absinthe, then muddling a sugar cube with Peychaud's Bitters. Rye whiskey is added and the mixture is stirred with ice before being strained into the prepared glass.
4. Origin and history: The Sazerac has a rich history and is considered one of the oldest known cocktails. It originated in the mid-19th century in New Orleans and was originally made with Sazerac de Forge et Fils brandy. Over time, rye whiskey became the preferred base spirit. The Old Fashioned, on the other hand, has its roots in the early 19th century and is often credited as being one of the first cocktails ever created. It was originally made with a combination of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters.
The Sazerac and the Old Fashioned are both classic cocktails that have stood the test of time. While they share some similarities in terms of ingredients, such as sugar and bitters, the choice of whiskey and bitters sets them apart. The Sazerac favors rye whiskey and Peychaud's Bitters, while the Old Fashioned typically uses bourbon and Angostura bitters. The different flavors and preparation methods give each cocktail its own distinct character and appeal.