New Orleans is said by some to be the birthplace of the cocktail (tonic drinks were served out of a French egg-cup called a ‘coquetier’ – which when incorrectly pronounced became ‘cocktail’ ) and not surprisingly, some of the best absinthe cocktails come from this city. This drink is considered by some as the first ‘cocktail’ ever invented; it was created by a New Orleans pharmacy in the early 19th century to ward off tropical malaise!
1.5 ounces absinthe
2 ounces Cognac Sazerac-de-Forge (now sadly extinct!) – you will need another cognac. Rye whisky became a popular substitute and is mistakenly considered a part of the original recipe.
3 dashes Peychaud’s Bitters
1/2 teaspoon sugar
Shake with ice and strain into an old-fashion glass (or an egg-cup), garnish with lemon peel.