Sazerac Cocktail Recipe

The Sazerac is a classic New Orleans cocktail that combines rye whiskey, absinthe, Peychaud's bitters, and simple syrup for a complex and flavorful drink. Here's what you'll need to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1.5 - 2 ounces rye whiskey (choose a good quality rye for the best flavor)
• Absinthe rinse (optional): ¼ ounce or less absinthe
• 3 dashes Peychaud's bitters
• ½ ounce simple syrup
• Lemon peel, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill an old-fashioned glass with ice. Let it sit for a minute or two to ensure a frosty glass.
2. If you'd like to include the absinthe rinse, add a small amount (¼ ounce or less) to the chilled glass. Swirl it to coat the entire inner surface, then discard the absinthe.
3. In your mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, Peychaud's bitters, and simple syrup. Add ice and stir well for about 15-20 seconds. This chills the drink and dilutes it slightly.
4. Discard the ice from the old-fashioned glass (if you used absinthe rinse) and strain the cocktail mixture into the chilled glass.
5. Take a lemon peel and express the oils from it over the drink by squeezing the peel briefly over the glass and releasing the oils.
6. Add the lemon peel to the rim of the glass for garnish.

Tips:

• Use high-quality ingredients for the best flavor, especially the rye whiskey.
• Don't over-dilute the drink. The Sazerac is meant to be potent and flavorful.
• If you don't have Peychaud's bitters, you can substitute with Angostura bitters, but the flavor profile will be slightly different.
• For a sweeter Sazerac, you can adjust the amount of simple syrup to your taste.
• Be careful with absinthe. Due to its high alcohol content and thujone levels, some countries and regions have restrictions on absinthe. Always check local regulations before using it.

Now you have everything you need to craft this delightful New Orleans classic! Enjoy your Sazerac responsibly.