The Old Fashioned originated as a simple cocktail in the early 19th century, defined as a blend of spirits, bitters, water, and sugar. By the 1860s, it evolved with additions like orange curaçao and absinthe.
As cocktails became more elaborate, a return to the original recipe, now dubbed “old-fashioned,” gained favor. Whiskey, particularly rye, became the preferred base. While the Pendennis Club in Louisville claims its invention, historical evidence suggests the cocktail predated the club’s establishment.
The notion of using brandy in an Old Fashioned likely emerged post-World War II, contrary to popular belief tied to the Chicago World’s Fair. Louisville declared it the official cocktail in 2015, celebrating “Old Fashioned Fortnight” annually.
Wisconsin similarly embraced the brandy Old Fashioned, naming it the state cocktail in 2023. Globally, the Old Fashioned remains a top-selling classic cocktail, according to Drinks International’s annual poll of 100 bars, a title it has held since January 2020.
Old Fashioned Ingredients
- 2 oz (60 ml) Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: The choice of whiskey is a matter of personal preference, with Bourbon providing a sweeter profile, and Rye offering spicier notes.
- 1 Sugar Cube or 1/2 oz (15 ml) Simple Syrup: Traditionally, a sugar cube is muddled with bitters, but simple syrup is often used for ease.
- 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters: These aromatic bitters are a key component that adds complexity.
- Orange Twist or Lemon Peel (Optional): This provides a hint of citrus.
- Ice Cube (Optional): While typically made without ice, some include a single, large ice cube for a slower dilution of the drink.
Old Fashioned Recipe
Step 1: Start with a clean, chilled rocks glass or lowball glass. If you prefer your drink slightly diluted, add a large ice cube to the glass.
Step 2: Place a sugar cube (or measure out 1/2 oz (15 ml) of simple syrup) in the glass.
Step 3: Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters to the sugar cube.
Step 4: Muddle the sugar and bitters together gently, allowing the sugar to dissolve and create a syrup.
Step 5: Pour 2 oz (60 ml) of your chosen bourbon or rye whiskey into the glass.
Step 6: Add ice cubes, if desired, and stir the mixture well to chill and properly dilute the drink. This should take about 20-30 seconds of stirring.
Step 7: Express the citrus oils from an orange twist or lemon peel over the drink by holding the twist or peel over the glass and giving it a gentle squeeze. This releases the oils.
Step 8: Optionally, garnish the drink with the citrus twist or peel by dropping it into the glass or resting it on the edge.
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While modern iterations often harken back to simplicity, during Prohibition, bartenders experimented, frequently adding muddled fruit like cherries, oranges, or even pineapple. Some of these variations endured into the 20th century, with variations like the Wisconsin Old Fashioned.
What’s The Best Whisky For An Old Fashioned?
Determining the best whiskey for an Old Fashioned ultimately boils down to personal preference rather than strict adherence to historical recipes. The Old Fashioned’s adaptable template allows for versatility across a spectrum of whiskey styles.
Traditionally, bourbon stands out as a favored whiskey for an Old Fashioned. Its robust body and corn-based composition provides a sturdy backbone to the cocktail.
Additionally, bourbon’s sweetness harmonizes with the bitter notes of the bitters, striking a pleasing balance. Aged in charred oak barrels, bourbon develops nuances of vanilla and caramel, further complementing the sugar while tempering the alcohol’s heat, allowing its flavors to shine through.
However, the choice of whiskey should align with the desired flavor profile of the Old Fashioned you seek. Opting for rye whiskey can infuse the cocktail with a spicier character and a drier finish, catering to those with a penchant for more robust flavors.
Scotch enthusiasts will discover that both blends and single malts can seamlessly integrate into the cocktail’s framework, offering a unique twist on the classic.
Moreover, innovative drinks like the Oaxaca Old Fashioned demonstrate that deviating from traditional whiskey choices can yield exciting results, proving that sometimes the perfect whiskey for an Old Fashioned may not even be whiskey at all.
Check out the dome of the different types of Old Fashioned Cocktails.
