New Orleans is known for its vibrant nightlife and unique culture, which includes an array of delicious and iconic alcoholic drinks. From the famous Hurricane to the classic Sazerac, the city offers an extensive selection of beverages that are a must-try for any visitor. Here are the top ten alcoholic drinks to drink in New Orleans:
- Hurricane – The Hurricane is perhaps the most famous drink in New Orleans, and for a good reason. This sweet and fruity cocktail is made with rum, passion fruit juice, and grenadine and is usually served in a tall glass or a hurricane glass. You can find it at Pat O’Brien’s, the bar that popularized the drink.
- Sazerac – The Sazerac is considered the official cocktail of New Orleans and has been a staple in the city’s drinking culture for over a century. This classic drink is made with rye whiskey, bitters, sugar, and absinthe and is served in a chilled glass with a lemon twist.
- Pimm’s Cup – The Pimm’s Cup is a refreshing and light drink that is perfect for hot New Orleans days. This cocktail is made with Pimm’s No. 1, a gin-based liqueur, lemonade, and ginger ale and is often garnished with cucumber slices and mint leaves.
- Ramos Gin Fizz – The Ramos Gin Fizz is a frothy and delicious cocktail that has been a New Orleans favorite since the early 1900s. This drink is made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, cream, orange blossom water, and egg whites and is shaken until it becomes frothy and silky.
- French 75 – The French 75 is a classic cocktail that originated in France but has since become a staple in New Orleans. This drink is made with gin, lemon juice, sugar, and champagne and is typically served in a champagne flute.
- Grasshopper – The Grasshopper is a sweet and creamy cocktail that is perfect for those with a sweet tooth. This drink is made with crème de menthe, crème de cacao, and cream and is often garnished with whipped cream and chocolate shavings.
- Vieux Carré – The Vieux Carré is a potent and complex cocktail that is named after the French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. This drink is made with rye whiskey, cognac, sweet vermouth, Benedictine, and bitters and is served in a chilled glass.
- Absinthe Frappé – The Absinthe Frappé is a refreshing and unique cocktail that is perfect for hot summer days in New Orleans. This drink is made with absinthe, sugar, and water and is shaken until it becomes frothy and chilled.
- Brandy Milk Punch – The Brandy Milk Punch is a classic New Orleans breakfast drink that is perfect for brunch or any time of the day. This drink is made with brandy, milk, sugar, and vanilla extract and is often served over ice.
- Faubourg (Dixie) Beer – Dixie Beer is a local beer that has been brewed in New Orleans for over 100 years. This beer is a light and refreshing lager that pairs perfectly with New Orleans cuisine and is a must-try for any beer lover.
In conclusion, New Orleans offers an extensive selection of alcoholic drinks that are unique to the city’s culture and history. From the classic Sazerac to the sweet and fruity Hurricane, there is something for everyone in the Big Easy. So, whether you’re visiting for Mardi Gras or just for a weekend getaway, be sure to try some of these iconic New Orleans drinks. Cheers!
