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Cocktails

Sazerac

Served in a Old-Fashioned Glass

Reviewed by , Drinks EditorHow we calculate nutrition
Cocktailalcoholic40.2% ABV6 ingredientsexcellent recipe
176 cal40.2% ABV1.63 US std2.9g sugar3.1g carbsAbout these numbers

Difficulty

Moderatestirred drink

Why: 6 ingredients, stirred drink, requires mixing glass, bar spoon

Best for: BBQ, Chocolate, After Dinner

Ingredients & Tools

BaseSweetenerMixerBittersGarnish
  • 1 tspRicard
  • 1/2 tsp superfineSugarSweetener
  • 2 dashesPeychaud BittersBitters
  • 1 tspWaterMixer
  • 2 ozBourbonBase
  • 1 twist ofLemon PeelGarnish
Tools:mixing glassbar spoon

How to Make It

StirStrainGarnishChill
  1. Rinse a chilled old-fashioned glass with the absinthe, add crushed ice, and set it aside.ChillChilling improves texture and keeps dilution under control.
  2. Stir the remaining ingredients over ice and set it aside.StirStirring chills and dilutes while keeping the drink clear and smooth.
  3. Discard the ice and any excess absinthe from the prepared glass, and strain the drink into the glass.StrainStraining removes ice chips, pulp or solids for a cleaner texture.
  4. Add the lemon peel for garnish.GarnishGarnish changes aroma, presentation or final flavour impression.

Best For

After DinnerBBQ / CookoutWinter / Cozy

Food Pairings

BBQChocolateOlives

Diet & Lifestyle

Gluten-FreeVeganVegetarian

Make it your way

Adjust this drink

Try alcohol-freeBrowse mocktails and zero-ABV alternatives.Make it lighterTry a longer serve style, more ice, soda, tonic or a lower-ABV alternative.Lower the caloriesCompare with drinks that sit lower on estimated calories per serve.Make it simplerTry drinks with three ingredients or fewer.

Swap notes

Base spiritBourbon is sweeter with vanilla and caramel; rye is spicier and drier; Scotch adds smoke and malt. Each changes the character significantly — stay within the same family where possible.CitrusA citrus twist mostly changes aroma, not acidity. Lemon, orange and grapefruit twists each push the drink in a different direction.SweetenerSimple syrup is neutral; honey adds floral warmth; agave is lighter and less cloying; grenadine adds pomegranate colour and fruit sweetness. Sweeteners vary in intensity — start with less than you think you need, then taste. Always rebalance with a little citrus if the drink feels flat after swapping.BittersAromatic bitters (like Angostura) add spice, clove and cinnamon warmth. Orange bitters are brighter and more citrus-forward. Peychaud's is lighter and more floral. Swapping between them changes the top-note character — use the same quantity and taste, adjusting by drops.

Explore next

Cocktail recipesMocktail alternativesFood pairingsFlavors

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Frequently asked questions

What is a Sazerac?
The Sazerac is a cocktail made with 6 ingredients, traditionally served in a Old-Fashioned Glass. It has an ABV of approximately 40.2%. A standard serving contains approximately 176 calories.
What does a Sazerac taste like?
Sazerac has a flavour profile featuring Spice, Sugar, Anise, Sweet. The exact taste varies depending on the brands and measures used.
What food goes well with a Sazerac?
Sazerac pairs well with BBQ, Chocolate, Olives. The pairing is based on complementary flavour profiles from the recipe's ingredients.
How strong is a Sazerac?
The Sazerac has an ABV of approximately 40.2%. That's approximately 1.63 US standard drinks. A standard serving contains 176 calories, 2.9g sugar, 3.1g carbs. Strength varies depending on the exact measures and spirits used.
When is a Sazerac typically served?
Sazerac is a popular choice for After Dinner, BBQ / Cookout, Winter / Cozy. It also works well as an aperitif or casual evening drink.
What drinks are similar to a Sazerac?
If you enjoy Sazerac, look for cocktails with a similar spirit base and flavour profile using the filters on the cocktails page. Drinks with matching body and acidity scores on the sensory bar will feel closest in character.
Can I make a Sazerac at home?
Yes. The Sazerac uses 6 ingredients, making it more involved to prepare at home. You will need a Old-Fashioned Glass. Use quality spirits and fresh ingredients for the best result.
What do the sensory profile dimensions mean?
Sensory profile dimensions describe key flavour characteristics: Body (light to full), Dryness (sweet to bone dry), Acidity (flat to crisp), Fruitiness (subtle to prominent) and Boldness (delicate to bold). Each scale helps you compare cocktails at a glance and find ones with similar character.
How do I use sensory profiles to find cocktails I like?
Compare the Body, Acidity and Fruitiness of Sazerac with other cocktails. If you enjoy this drink, look for others with a similar profile. Adjust one dimension at a time to discover new favourites while staying in your flavour comfort zone.