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.
Ingredients
Servings: 8 (makes about 3 cups/720 milliliters)
Directions
Active:
5 mins|
Total: 2 hours 5 mins, including chilling time
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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.
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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.
