Looking for something new? Try something old. One of the most ancient of liqueurs is making a comeback: Bénédictine.

In 1510, at the Benedictine Abbey of Fécamp in Normandy, a monk named Dom Bernardo Vincelli developed a recipe for an aromatic elixir. It was produced at the abbey until the recipe was lost during the French Revolution.

In 1863, Alexandre le Grand discovered the recipe and began production under the trade name "Bénédictine." The company he founded continues to produce the liqueur today.
The recipe is a closely guarded secret. So many people have tried (and failed) to reproduce it that the company maintains a "Hall of Counterfeits" displaying bottles of failed attempts.

My first encounter with the elixir was on a recent trip to New Orleans at the Hotel Monteleone. While sitting at the carousel bar I was introduced to the Vieux Carré. Not being a whiskey drinker, my plan was to taste a sip and pass the drink along to my friends for them to finish. But after the first sip, I decided the drink was all mine. It was slightly sweet with hints of cinnamon and honeysuckle from the Bénédictine. It begged for another sip "» and then another.

On my return to Pensacola, I was excited to take my experience back to Jackson's and share this wonderfully warm and comforting cocktail with everyone. Believe me, if I like it I know you will, too.

The Vieux Carré
1 ounce rye whiskey
1 ounce cognac
1 ounce sweet vermouth
1 teaspoon Bénédictine

The Vieux Carré cocktail pictured left and served at Jackson's Steakhouse. (Bruce Graner/bgraner@pnj.com)