New York Sazerac 🍸

Ingredients:

2 oz Rye whiskey (a nod to the classic Sazerac)

1/4 oz Absinthe (or absinthe substitute such as Pernod)

1 tsp Simple syrup (or a sugar cube, muddled)

3 dashes Angostura bitters

Lemon peel (for garnish)

Ice cubes

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The Basics: An Overview of the New York Sazerac

The New York Sazerac is a type of spirit-forward cocktail, which means it features a primary spirit as the base, with a minimal amount of dilution. This drink is a great example of a simple yet flavorful concoction that balances complexity and bold flavors, thanks to the rye whiskey, absinthe, bitters, and the twist of citrus from the lemon peel. It's a drink that embodies both refinement and an adventurous spirit, inviting both newcomers and cocktail connoisseurs to indulge in its well-crafted nuances.

What makes this drink a "New York" Sazerac, rather than a traditional Sazerac from New Orleans, is primarily the use of rye whiskey as the base. Rye whiskey is known for its spicy, bold, and sometimes peppery characteristics, which contrast with the smoothness and sweetness of bourbon. Rye whiskey has a long history in New York, particularly during the pre-Prohibition era, and its use in this cocktail offers a nod to New York's own whiskey heritage. The addition of absinthe, bitters, and a lemon twist continues to echo the classic Sazerac but gives it a distinctly local and modern upgrade.

A Closer Look at the Ingredients

The success of any cocktail lies in the quality of its ingredients, and the New York Sazerac is no exception. Each component plays a critical role in shaping the final flavor profile of the drink.

Rye Whiskey:

The base spirit of the New York Sazerac is rye whiskey. Rye is the grain used in the production of this whiskey, giving it a spicier, drier, and more assertive flavor compared to bourbon. Rye whiskey is a perfect fit for the Sazerac's bold nature, providing complexity that shines through the other flavors in the drink. Notable rye whiskeys such as Bulleit Rye, Old Forester Rye, or WhistlePig can be used to create a flavorful drink that is both smooth and sharp. The spiciness of rye is balanced by the sweetness of the simple syrup and the herbal complexity of absinthe.

Absinthe:

Absinthe is a crucial ingredient in the traditional Sazerac and remains so in the New York Sazerac. The absinthe rinse imparts a unique herbal and slightly anise-flavored essence to the drink. Originally created as a medicinal elixir in the 18th century, absinthe gained popularity in the late 19th century as a popular aperitif, especially among French artists and writers. The modern absinthe used today provides a distinct licorice-like aroma and flavor that complements the spiciness of the rye whiskey. The small amount of absinthe used in this cocktail is not meant to overpower but instead to lightly coat the inside of the glass, leaving a lingering herbal note that plays well with the other elements.

Simple Syrup (or Sugar Cube):

Simple syrup is a staple in many cocktails, including the New York Sazerac. A mixture of equal parts sugar and water, simple syrup dissolves quickly and provides just enough sweetness to balance the intense flavors of the rye whiskey and the bitterness of the bitters. Traditionally, a sugar cube is muddled in the bottom of the glass to dissolve before the rest of the ingredients are added, but for convenience and precision, simple syrup is commonly used today. The sweetness helps to smooth out the spiciness of the rye and the sharpness of the absinthe, creating a more harmonious flavor.

Angostura Bitters:

Bitters are an essential component in any classic cocktail, and in the case of the New York Sazerac, Angostura bitters are used to add depth and complexity. Originally created in the 19th century as a medicinal tonic, Angostura bitters are a mixture of herbs, spices, and citrus peel. Their inclusion in the New York Sazerac provides an additional layer of complexity, adding a touch of bitterness and a fragrant aromatic component. The bitters help balance the sweetness of the syrup and the richness of the whiskey, providing a harmonious and well-rounded flavor profile.

Lemon Peel:

The garnish of a lemon peel serves both a functional and decorative purpose. When expressed over the drink, the oils from the lemon peel are released, providing a burst of citrus aroma that complements the other flavors in the cocktail. The zestiness of the lemon peel adds a refreshing contrast to the deeper, spicier flavors of the rye whiskey and the herbal notes of the absinthe. Additionally, the lemon peel provides a visual appeal, giving the New York Sazerac a polished and elegant look.