Vieux Carré
Walter Bergeron's New Orleans classic blends rye, cognac, sweet vermouth and Bénédictine with dual bitters for a silky, spirit-forward sipper.
30%
ABV
198
Calories
Rocks
Glass
Flavor Journey
Ingredients
Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.
0.8 oz
0.8 oz
0.8 oz
0.3 oz
2 dashes
2 dashes
Method
Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.
Add all ingredients to a mixing glass filled with ice
Stir until well chilled, about 45 seconds
Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice
Garnish with a lemon twist
Glassware
Served over ice in a rocks glass
Garnish
Expressed lemon twist
Master's Tips
Professional insights to elevate your craft
Balance is key with so many ingredients
High-quality cognac elevates this drink
Stir over plenty of ice to avoid dilution shock
Variations & Riffs
Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Vieux Carré.
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.
Rum Vieux Carré
A modern adaptation of the classic New Orleans Vieux Carré, substituting aged rum for cognac to create a warmer, sweeter profile that bridges Caribbean and Crescent City influences.
Other Variations
Rye-Forward
Boosts rye to one ounce and reduces cognac for extra spice.
Changes
History & Heritage
“Hotel Monteleone head bartender Walter Bergeron unveiled the Vieux Carré in 1937, naming it for the French Quarter ("old square"). The equal-parts mix mirrors New Orleans' melting pot of French, American and Caribbean influences and has remained a Carousel Bar staple ever since.”
More to Explore
If you enjoyed this cocktail, these similar creations might capture your interest.
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.
Manhattan
The quintessential whiskey cocktail—rye, vermouth and bitters in perfect harmony—serving as the template for a whole family of spirit-forward drinks.
Rum Vieux Carré
A modern adaptation of the classic New Orleans Vieux Carré, substituting aged rum for cognac to create a warmer, sweeter profile that bridges Caribbean and Crescent City influences.