Absolut New Orleans was the first of our “Cities” Limited Edition series, celebrating the famous carnival atmosphere of one of the most vibrant cities in the United States. As a brand known for promoting a spirit of independence, it made sense to start here.

To capture that Mardi Gras spirit, this limited-edition vodka was flavored with Mango and Black Pepper. The unique bottle label features a harmonica with “L.O. SMITH TRIO” engraved on its surface, the name of a fictitious blues trio we fabricated as a nod to Absolut’s founder, Lars Olsson Smith.

With the recent destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina, Absolut donated 100% of proceeds, for a total donation of $2 million, to organizations benefiting New Orleans and cities along the Gulf Coast.

As they say in The Crescent City, “Laissez les bon temps rouler” — Let the good times roll.

Absolut New Orleans was revealed in 2007 at Tales of the Cocktail, the annual event that’s equal parts cocktail conference and family reunion, hosted in New Orleans.