Sip: Sazerac

Nearly three years ago, a state senator tried to get legislation passed to make the Sazerac our official state cocktail. That effort failed, but not because a Sazerac isn’t amazing. Instead it became the official cocktail of New Orleans, where it was reportedly invented in the 1830s. If anyone knows old New Orleans, it’s Galatoire’s—and their Baton Rouge Bistro serves a Sazerac ($6) either straight up or on the rocks. Traditionally a rye whiskey and an anise liquor—Old Overholt and Herbsaint, respectively, in this case—Galatoire’s has replaced the sugar cube with simple syrup, but kept the Peychaud’s bitters and a twist of lemon for garnish. Whiskey is an acquired taste, so if you’re a beginner, ordering straight up might not be the way to go. On the rocks will seem a bit weaker, but make no mistake, there’s nothing weak about it.