Cognac Sazerac
The original incarnation of what is arguably America's first cocktail, a cornerstone of classic mixology born in the spirited heart of 19th-century New Orleans.
37%
ABV
medium
Difficulty
Old Fashioned
Glass
Flavor Profile
Flavor Journey
History & Heritage
“The Sazerac's genesis is deeply intertwined with the history of New Orleans. The original recipe, served at the Sazerac Coffee House in the mid-1850s, featured Sazerac de Forge et Fils cognac and Peychaud's Bitters. The switch to rye whiskey happened in the late 19th century due to the phylloxera epidemic in France.”
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Chill an Old Fashioned glass by filling it with ice.
In a separate mixing glass, combine the cognac, simple syrup, and Peychaud's Bitters.
Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for 20-30 seconds.
Discard the ice from the chilled Old Fashioned glass.
Add the absinthe to the chilled glass, swirling it to coat the entire interior surface. Discard the excess absinthe.
Strain the contents of the mixing glass into the absinthe-rinsed glass.
Express the oils of a lemon peel over the drink, rub the peel around the rim, and discard.
Glassware
Served in a chilled Old Fashioned glass
Garnish
Expressed over the drink and discarded
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Proper chilling of the glass and the mixture is paramount as the drink is served without ice.
The absinthe is an aromatic accent, not a primary ingredient; a rinse is all that is required.
Express the lemon peel over the drink to release its oils, but do not drop it into the glass.
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Cognac Sazerac.
Rye Sazerac
The most common version of the drink today, using rye whiskey as the base spirit for a spicier, more assertive character.
Changes
Split-Base Sazerac
A popular modern variation that uses both cognac and rye whiskey to capture the best of both worlds.
Changes
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
Sazerac
Rye, sugar, Peychaud's bitters, and an absinthe rinse compose this potent, aromatic New Orleans standard.
French 125
Cognac‑based French 75—cognac, lemon, and sugar topped with brut Champagne for a richer sparkle.
Bourbon Vieux Carré
A timeless New Orleans classic that beautifully encapsulates the city's multicultural heritage. This sophisticated cocktail masterfully blends American rye whiskey, French cognac and Bénédictine, Italian sweet vermouth, and Creole bitters for a harmonious and richly layered experience.