Shaken And Stirred In The Big Easy

Here’s the latest in my series of quirky museums. A few weeks ago, I gave you French fries. Now stand by for the Museum of the American Cocktail.

Opening on July 21st in New Orleans, the museum will focus on the rich history of the sophisticated drinks that have been served since Thomas Jefferson was President.

The museum (www.museumoftheamericancocktail.org) is located near the French Quarter and features a collection of rare spirits, books and Prohibition-era literature. There will be vintage cocktail-shakers, glasses, gadgets and other memorabilia. “It’s a fanciful combination of things,” said curator Ted Haigh. “And New Orleans is the ultimate fit – a city that loves celebration and history.”

There won’t be a bar, but there will be tastings in connection with some events.

New Orleans’ own special cocktail is the Sazerac, which dates from before the Civil War. Many different recipes for the drink have evolved over the years, but it generally features a combination of Cognac, rye whiskey, bitters and absinthe or pastis.

Luxique can offer a number of fine luxury hotels in New Orleans, including the ‘hip and low key’ Loft 523, the ‘formal and luxurious’ Windsor Court and the ‘unique and whimsical’ Le Pavillon.

by Andy Moreton