The Sazerac cocktail, a classic New Orleans drink, has an interesting history behind its name. Legend has it that the drink was first concocted by a pharmacist named Antoine Peychaud in the early 19th century. Peychaud, who was originally from Haiti, settled in New Orleans and opened a pharmacy in the French Quarter.
Peychaud had a fondness for French brandy, particularly a brand called Sazerac-de-Forge et fils. It is said that he used this brandy as the base spirit for his new creation, which eventually came to be known as the Sazerac cocktail. The drink gained popularity in the city and became a staple at the Sazerac Coffee House, which opened in the mid-1800s.
The origin of the name itself is a subject of debate and speculation. Some believe that the name “Sazerac” derived from Peychaud's preferred brand of brandy, while others suggest that it may have been derived from the French word “coquetier,” which means egg cup. The story goes that Peychaud first served his creation to his fellow Masons after hours in an egg cup, or coquetier, and that the term eventually evolved into “cocktail.”
The Sazerac cocktail is made by muddling sugar with Peychaud's bitters in a glass, then adding a measure of Sazerac brand rye whiskey (or sometimes cognac) and stirring it with ice. The glass is then rinsed with absinthe, giving the drink its distinctive flavor and aroma. a lemon peel is twisted over the glass and used as a garnish.
The Sazerac cocktail has stood the test of time and remains a beloved classic to this day. Its unique combination of flavors and the ritualistic preparation make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. Whether you prefer the rye whiskey or cognac version, the Sazerac offers a taste of New Orleans history in every sip.
In my own experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of making and enjoying Sazerac cocktails. The process of preparing the drink, from muddling the sugar and bitters to the final garnish, is a true art form. The combination of flavors, with the herbal notes of absinthe and the slight sweetness of the sugar, creates a well-balanced and complex cocktail.
I have also had the opportunity to visit New Orleans and explore the city's rich cocktail culture. The Sazerac is a drink that is deeply intertwined with the history and spirit of the city. It is not only a delicious beverage but also a symbol of the vibrant and diverse culinary traditions that make New Orleans such a unique and fascinating destination.
The Sazerac cocktail is named after Peychaud's preferred brand of brandy, Sazerac-de-Forge et fils. Its exact origins and the etymology of its name may be debated, but there is no denying the enduring popularity and allure of this classic New Orleans drink. Whether you enjoy it for its history, its flavors, or simply the pleasure of sipping on a well-crafted cocktail, the Sazerac is a true gem of the cocktail world.