The name “Sazerac” holds historical significance and is deeply rooted in the origins of the Sazerac Cocktail itself. The Sazerac de Forge et Fils brand was the original spirit used in this iconic cocktail, and it became synonymous with the drink over time.
To understand why it is called a Sazerac, we need to delve into the history of the cocktail and the coffee house where it was first created. In the mid-19th century, there was a popular coffee house located in New Orleans called the Sazerac Coffee House. This establishment was known for serving a variety of drinks, including the Sazerac Cocktail.
The Sazerac Coffee House was owned by a gentleman named Antoine Peychaud, who was a pharmacist by profession. He created a unique cocktail using his own bitters, which he called the Sazerac Cocktail. This concoction quickly gained popularity among locals and became the signature drink of the coffee house.
The Sazerac Coffee House was named after the brand of cognac that Antoine Peychaud used in his cocktail – Sazerac de Forge et Fils. This cognac, produced by the Sazerac Company, was a well-known and respected spirit at the time. As the cocktail gained popularity, it became commonly referred to as the Sazerac, after the coffee house and the brand of cognac that was used in the drink.
Over time, the Sazerac Cocktail evolved and its ingredients changed. Due to factors such as the phylloxera epidemic and the decline of cognac popularity in the United States, rye whiskey replaced the original cognac as the base spirit in the cocktail. However, the name “Sazerac” remained, paying homage to its origins and the brand that was initially used.
The Sazerac Cocktail has become an iconic symbol of New Orleans and its rich cocktail culture. It represents a blend of history, tradition, and innovation. The name “Sazerac” carries with it the legacy of the original coffee house and the brand of cognac that played a vital role in its creation.
The Sazerac Cocktail is called a Sazerac because it was originally made with Sazerac de Forge et Fils cognac at the Sazerac Coffee House in New Orleans. The name has stuck over time, even as the cocktail's recipe has evolved. It serves as a testament to the roots and history of this beloved drink.