Vicki’s Favorite Mardi Gras Cocktail: The Vieux Carré

While Vicki and her longer termed team are off enjoying some overdue and well deserved time away in the tropics, I wanted to continue the cadence with Vicki’s blogs.  Couldn’t think of a better and more timely blog during Mardi Gras, than to talk about Vicki’s favorite Mardi Gras cocktail.  If you know Vicki, you know she has great taste. So, it’s no surprise that her favorite Mardi Gras cocktail is the Vieux Carré—a drink as rich in history as it is in flavor.

A Classic from the French Quarter

The Vieux Carré, which means “Old Square” in French, was first created in the 1930s at the Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone. Its name is a tribute to New Orleans’ historic heart, the French Quarter. The drink, much like the city it represents, is smooth yet strong, and complex yet balanced. It perfectly captures the French, American, and Caribbean influences that have shaped New Orleans.

Breaking Down the Ingredients

Like a well-crafted dish, the Vieux Carré is all about balance. Each ingredient plays its part, none overpowering the other:

• Rye Whiskey – Brings a spicy warmth and structure.
• Cognac – Smooth, rich, and slightly fruity, it rounds out the rye’s bite.
• Sweet Vermouth – Adds a touch of sweetness and herbal depth.
• Bénédictine – A French herbal liqueur that ties everything together with honeyed spice.
• Peychaud’s & Angostura Bitters – These two bitters add complexity, with Peychaud’s lending a hint of anise and florals, while Angostura provides a warming spice.

How to Make It

If you want to toast to Mardi Gras the way Vicki would, here’s how to mix up a perfect Vieux Carré:

• ¾ oz Rye Whiskey
• ¾ oz Cognac
• ¾ oz Sweet Vermouth
• ¼ oz Bénédictine
• 2 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
• 2 dashes Angostura Bitters

Stir with ice and strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a lemon twist.

A Drink That Suits the Occasion

The Vieux Carré is a cocktail meant for slow sipping, much like how Mardi Gras itself is best enjoyed—taking in the moment, savoring the experience. It’s no wonder Vicki always comes back to this one.

So while she and the team are off recharging, I’ll raise a glass of Vieux Carré in their honor. If you’re looking for a drink that captures the essence of New Orleans, you won’t find a better one than this.

Cheers to you Vic!  I will certainly enjoy one of two of these while you are on vacation!

Darrel