Exploring Sazerac, the Stylish Cousin of Old Fashioned

Exploring Sazerac, the Stylish Cousin of Old Fashioned

By Author

Published on October 8, 2023

In the world of classic cocktails, there exists a concoction that is not just a drink but a piece of living history. The Sazerac is a classic cocktail with its origins in New Orleans, Louisiana and is known for its rich, complex flavors. With a heritage spanning centuries, the Sazerac has not only survived the test of time but has continued to evolve, captivating the palates of both connoisseurs and newcomers alike.

This drink is closely related to Old Fashioned in terms of its ingredients and traditional preparation. What sets Sazerac apart, however, is the inclusion of Absinthe or Herbsaint for rinsing, which imparts a subtle unique flavor to the drink. 

Over the years, the Sazerac has become a cultural icon, representing the heritage and traditions of New Orleans. It's often associated with jazz, Mardi Gras, and the unique ambiance of the city. This cocktail is a versatile one and is eligible for varieties of gatherings like Classic Cocktail Parties, Corporate Events, and Casual Gatherings.

The versatile drink has also made appearances in various works of literature, film, and television, further cementing its status as a symbol of sophistication and classic cocktail culture. 

A well-prepared Sazerac is a perfect drink with delicious flavors that can offer depth and kick. Initially, the drink is believed to be prepared from Cognac; however, the modern iteration prefers the rye whiskey. Using a mix of Cognac and rye whiskey will also impart a flavor with new dimensions yet perfectly New Orleans. The following recipe is a simple and delicious way to prepare a Sazerac, using the traditional ingredients and methods.

Ingredients:

  • 2 oz (60 ml) rye whiskey

  • 1 sugar cube

  • 3 dashes Peychaud's Bitters

  • 1 dash Angostura Bitters (optional)

  • Absinthe or Herbsaint (for rinsing)

  • Lemon peel, for garnish

  • Ice cubes

  • Old-fashioned glass

Instructions:

  1. Start by chilling your old-fashioned glass. Fill it with ice and set it aside while you prepare the rest of the cocktail.

  2. In a separate glass or mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with the Peychaud's Bitters and, if desired, a dash of Angostura Bitters. Muddle until the sugar is dissolved, creating a syrup-like consistency.

  3. Add the rye whiskey to the sugar and bitters mixture. Stir well to combine. Fill the glass with ice to chill the mixture further and stir again until well chilled.

  4. Empty the ice from your chilled old-fashioned glass. Rinse the glass with a small amount of absinthe or Herbsaint, swirling it around to coat the interior of the glass. Discard any excess absinthe.

  5. Strain the chilled whiskey mixture from the mixing glass into the absinthe-rinsed old-fashioned glass.

  6. Express the oils from a lemon peel by holding it over the glass and giving it a gentle twist. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass to release its aromatic oils, then drop the peel into the drink as a garnish.

  7. Your Sazerac is now ready to enjoy. Serve it straight up, without ice. Cheers!


17 Injured After Air India Phuket–Delhi Flight Encounters Turbulence

17 Injured After Air India Phuket–Delhi Flight Encounters Turbulence

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 5, 2026

Air India Flight AI2379, operating from Phuket to Delhi, encountered severe turbulence during its journey on Tuesday, leaving 17 people injured, including 13 passengers and four cabin crew members. Despite the incident, the aircraft landed safely at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi, where medical teams were immediately deployed to assist those onboard.

The flight, operated by an Airbus A320 (VT-EXO), was carrying 137 passengers, including three infants, along with eight crew members comprising two pilots and six cabin crew.

According to Air India, the aircraft experienced a momentary change in altitude during the cruise phase before stabilising and continuing its journey safely to Delhi. Flight tracking platform Flightradar24 indicated that the aircraft descended by approximately 300 feet around 2.5 hours into the flight, while flying over Odisha.

Following the landing, medical teams attended to all passengers and crew as a precaution. Eight passengers and four cabin crew members were admitted to hospitals for detailed medical evaluation and treatment. Air India stated that all those admitted are stable and are receiving appropriate medical care, while the remaining passengers were provided with the necessary assistance and support.

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The Minister of Civil Aviation, Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu, personally visited the injured passengers at Fortis and Medanta Hospitals to enquire about their condition and assure them of the government's full support. Senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation also visited the hospitals and are coordinating closely with the airline and hospital authorities to ensure the injured receive the best possible medical care.

The aircraft has since been moved to the hangar, where the Flight Data Recorder (FDR) and Cockpit Voice Recorder (CVR) have been secured for detailed examination.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has initiated a comprehensive investigation into the incident. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and DGCA said they are closely monitoring the situation, reiterating that passenger safety remains the highest priority and that all necessary measures are being taken.


Bikanervala to Open New Outlet at SPS Realty's Helios in Zirakpur

Bikanervala to Open New Outlet at SPS Realty's Helios in Zirakpur

By Manu Vardhan Kannan

Published on August 3, 2026

SPS Realty has announced that Bikanervala, one of India's most recognised food and sweets brands, will open a new outlet at its flagship commercial development, Helios, located on VIP Road in Zirakpur. The addition is set to strengthen the project's retail and food & beverage ecosystem while enhancing its appeal as a lifestyle destination.

The upcoming outlet will offer Bikanervala's wide range of traditional Indian sweets, snacks, and dining options, catering to residents, businesses, and visitors from Zirakpur and nearby areas. The brand's presence is expected to serve as a key food and beverage anchor within the commercial development.

Commenting on the association, Rohit Singla, Director, SPS Realty, said, "The addition of Bikanervala at Helios reflects our vision of creating a well-rounded commercial destination that brings together premium retail, food, and lifestyle experiences. We aim to curate a diverse ecosystem where businesses can thrive while offering visitors a complete experience under one roof."

Helios has been designed as SPS Realty's flagship commercial project, featuring contemporary architecture, premium commercial spaces, and a strategic location on VIP Road. The development comprises 177 premium retail and showroom spaces, offering high-visibility opportunities for established brands, entrepreneurs, and businesses.

The arrival of Bikanervala is expected to further strengthen Helios' growing tenant mix while enhancing customer engagement by adding a well-established food and beverage destination. With increasing urbanisation and rising demand for organised retail spaces in the region, the project is positioned to emerge as a preferred commercial hub in Zirakpur.

Through this partnership, SPS Realty continues its focus on developing commercial destinations that combine retail, dining, and lifestyle experiences while creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.


McDonald's India – North and East Crosses 200 McCafé Outlets, Partners with Tara Sutaria

McDonald's India – North and East Crosses 200 McCafé Outlets, Partners with Tara Sutaria

By Hariharan U

Published on August 3, 2026

McDonald's India – North and East has announced the expansion of its McCafé network to 200 outlets across North and East India, marking a significant milestone in the brand's coffee business. The expansion reflects the company's continued investment in making premium-quality coffee more accessible as India's café culture continues to evolve.

To commemorate the milestone, McDonald's India – North and East has partnered with Tara Sutaria as the face of McCafé, bringing its "Good Vibes Start with McCafe" platform to life through a new brand campaign celebrating everyday coffee moments and connections.

As part of the celebration, McCafé has also introduced a new Summer Range featuring Strawberry Matcha, Affogato, Salted Caramel Latte, Chai Latte, and Passion Fruit Cooler, expanding its beverage portfolio with refreshing and indulgent options designed for evolving consumer preferences.

Commenting on the milestone, Anant Agarwal, Vice-Chairperson, CPRL (McDonald's India – North and East), said, "At McCafé, our ambition is to build one of India's most loved and trusted coffee brands by making great coffee accessible to more consumers without compromising on quality or value. The milestone of 200 McCafé outlets reflects our continued investment in expanding our footprint and strengthening our beverage portfolio. As coffee culture continues to evolve in India, our refreshed 'Good Vibes Start with McCafe' platform, along with our collaboration with Tara Sutaria as the face of McCafé, reinforces our commitment to connecting with young consumers and making McCafé their preferred choice for everyday coffee occasions."

Sharing her thoughts on the association, Tara Sutaria said, "Coffee has always been an important part of my everyday routine, whether it's the first cup that starts my day, a mid-day pick-me-up or a quiet moment to unwind. Over the years, McCafé has become one of my go-to choices, whether I'm in India or travelling abroad, because I know I can always count on a great cup of coffee. McCafé's Cappuccino is one of my personal favourites whenever I'm looking for something indulgent. I'm delighted to be associated with a brand that shares my love for great coffee and celebrates the everyday rituals that make each cup special."

The new summer beverage range is now available across McCafé outlets in North and East India. Customers can also order through dine-in, Self-Ordering Kiosks (SOK), takeaway, drive-thru, delivery platforms, and the McDonald's App.

The campaign has been conceptualised by BBDO India, part of Omnicom Advertising India.

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