C&B Old Fashioned: A Bold Variation

The C&B Old Fashioned is a modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, blending the botanical richness of gin with the bitter-sweet complexity of Campari and the aromatic nuances of Lillet Blanc, Benedictine, and Cointreau.

This cocktail stands out for its flavor profile, offering an alternative to the whiskey-based original.

Perfect for those who appreciate the art of mixology, the C&B Old Fashioned is a testament to the possibilities within the world of cocktails.

Here’s how to make the C&B Old Fasioned cocktail at home.

C&B Old Fashioned Ingredients

• Gin (1 1/2 ounces / 45 ml): Provides a botanical base that complements the other components, adding depth and character to the cocktail.
• Campari (3/4 ounce / 22.5 ml): Gives a bitter-sweet element that is both refreshing and complex.
• Lillet Blanc (3/4 ounce / 22.5 ml): A French aromatized wine that adds a smooth, floral, and slightly citrusy layer.
• Benedictine (1/4 ounce / 7.5 ml): Contributes herbal and spicy notes, enhancing the cocktail’s aromatic profile.
• Cointreau (1/4 ounce / 7.5 ml): Offers a hint of orange sweetness, brightening the overall flavor of the drink.
• Club Soda (chilled, to top): Adds bubbles, lightening the cocktail and making it even more refreshing.
• Garnish: Orange Twist: Provides a fragrant citrus aroma that perfectly complements the drink’s botanical and bitter elements.

C&B Old Fashioned Recipe

1. Combining the Ingredients:
   • In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine 1 1/2 ounces of gin, 3/4 ounce of Campari, 3/4 ounce of Lillet Blanc, 1/4 ounce of Benedictine, and 1/4 ounce of Cointreau.
   • The choice of gin can significantly influence the cocktail’s flavor, so select a gin that you enjoy on its own.
2. Stirring to Chill:
   • Stir the mixture until well-chilled. This not only cools the drink but also dilutes it slightly, mellowing the alcohol’s sharpness and allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
3. Straining and Serving:
   • Strain the chilled cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
   • The use of fresh ice ensures that the drink remains cold without becoming overly diluted too quickly.
4. Adding Club Soda:
   • Gently top the cocktail with chilled club soda. This adds a light, bubbly texture that elevates the drink, making it even more enjoyable and palatable.
5. Garnishing:
   • Garnish with an orange twist. Express the oils of the orange twist over the cocktail to release its aromatic citrus oils, then place it in the glass.

The C&B Old Fashioned

Gin, a timeless staple in cocktails, seamlessly transitions from the Gin Martini to the invigorating zest of a Gin Gimlet. However, this botanical-infused spirit isn’t confined to traditional libations; it remains a cherished asset for today’s mixologists, who incorporate its flavorful essence into a myriad of contemporary recipes.

The C&B Old Fashioned, crafted by seasoned New York bartender and distiller Allen Katz, exemplifies gin’s versatility. Named for its use of Campari and Benedictine, this complex concoction also features Lillet Blanc and Cointreau alongside the gin.

With one spirit, three liqueurs, and a wine-based aperitif, it promises a symphony of flavors. Stirred with ice, strained, and topped with club soda, this masterpiece is garnished with an orange twist.

Campari, a vibrant red Italian liqueur, boasts a bitter profile with dominant notes of bitter orange. Benedictine, a French liqueur, reveals a sweet, herbal essence from its secret blend of 27 herbs and spices. Lillet Blanc offers a light, wine-based allure, while Cointreau, renowned for its role in the Margarita, delivers a punch of orange flavor.

While this recipe may seem intense, each ingredient is carefully balanced to achieve harmony, with the club soda adding a touch of dilution and effervescence for a well-rounded experience.

The C&B Old Fashioned may stray from the conventional whiskey version, but beyond the name, it’s a realm apart. Blend these elements in a glass, and you’ll craft a captivating, intricate cocktail worthy of savoring solo or sharing with company.

Check out some more Old Fashioned Cocktail variations.