Democracy Dies in Darknessclock2 hours 5 minscourseBeverageStart CookingComment on this storyAdd to your saved recipesBy M. Carrie Allan

One of the best classic cocktails to come out of New Orleans, the boozy, complex Vieux Carré gets a batched treatment in J.M. Hirsch’s book “Freezer Door Cocktails.” The drink’s high alcohol content means it won’t freeze in a standard household freezer but will instead take on a silky, syrupy texture, ready for unexpected company or whenever you crave a drink on demand.

Make ahead: Chill the bottled cocktail in the freezer for at least a few hours before serving.

Storage: Store in the freezer for up to 6 months.

Adapted from “Freezer Door Cocktails” by J.M. Hirsch (Voracious, 2024).

Story continues below advertisement

Advertisement

Ingredients

measuring cup

Servings: 8 (makes about 3 cups/720 milliliters)

Directions

Time Icon Active: 5 mins| Total: 2 hours 5 mins, including chilling time

  • Step 1

    In a bottle that holds at least 750 milliliters, combine the rye, vermouth, cognac, Benedictine, water, and Angostura and Peychaud’s bitters. Seal the bottle, shake to combine, then transfer to the freezer and chill completely, at least 2 hours.

  • Step 2

    To serve, add a large ice cube to each of the rocks glasses you plan to use, and pour the drink over it. Using your fingers, twist a lemon peel, if using, over each drink (this releases its flavorful oils), drop the peel into the glass and serve.

    • Story continues below advertisement

    Advertisement

    Nutritional Facts

    Per serving (generous 1/3 cup/90 milliliters)

    • Calories

      194

    • Fat

      0 g

    • Saturated Fat

      0 g

    • Carbohydrates

      10 g

    • Sodium

      2 mg

    • Cholesterol

      0 mg

    • Protein

      0 g

    • Fiber

      0 g

    • Sugar

      9 g

    This analysis is an estimate based on available ingredients and this preparation. It should not substitute for a dietitian’s or nutritionist’s advice.

    Adapted from “Freezer Door Cocktails” by J.M. Hirsch (Voracious, 2024).

    Tested by M. Carrie Allan.

    Published June 12, 2024

    Related Recipes

    ncG1vNJzZmivp6x7uK3SoaCnn6Sku7G70q1lnKedZL%2Bmr8ipnKxnkpbBpLTEnWSvoZWqxW6vwKupZpufmLi1rcilZg%3D%3D