The Irish Old Fashioned is a refined twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, substituting the traditional rye or bourbon with the smooth flavors of Irish whiskey.
This version, featuring Jameson Black Barrel Irish whiskey, introduces a blend of warmth and sweetness, complemented by the herbal depth of Benedictine and the spiciness of Angostura and orange bitters.
The result is a cocktail that’s both familiar and novel, offering a nod to tradition while embracing the character of Irish spirits.
Here’s an in-depth guide on how to make an Irish Old Fashioned cocktail.
Irish Old Fashioned Ingredients
- Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey (2 ounces / 60 ml): A premium Irish whiskey that offers a rich, full flavor with notes of vanilla, toasted wood, and spices, providing a perfect foundation for the cocktail.
- Benedictine (3/4 ounce / 22.5 ml): A French herbal liqueur that adds complexity and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the whiskey’s natural flavors.
- Angostura Bitters (2 dashes): Adds a layer of spice and balances the sweetness of the whiskey and Benedictine.
- Orange Bitters (2 dashes): Adds a citrus note, complementing the orange garnish and adding brightness to the drink.
- Garnish: Orange Twist: Adds a fragrant citrus aroma and a touch of elegance, perfectly rounding off the cocktail.
Irish Old Fashioned Recipe
- Combining the Ingredients:
- Start by adding 2 ounces of Jameson Black Barrel Irish whiskey, 3/4 ounce of Benedictine, and two dashes each of Angostura and orange bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- The choice of Jameson Black Barrel adds a distinct richness to the cocktail, while the Benedictine offers a counterpoint with its herbal sweetness.
- Stirring to Perfection:
- Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly until well-chilled.
- This process not only cools the drink but also ensures that the flavors are integrated, allowing the whiskey to express its full range of aromas and tastes.
- Straining and Serving:
- Strain the chilled cocktail into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice.
- Adding the Garnish:
- Garnish with an orange twist. To do this, take a wide strip of orange peel and twist it over the glass to express the essential oils onto the surface of the drink.
- Then, rub the peel around the rim of the glass before dropping it in.
Tips for the Best Irish Old Fashioned
- Quality Ingredients: As with any cocktail, the quality of the ingredients plays a crucial role in the final taste. Opt for premium Irish whiskey and fresh, high-quality bitters to ensure the best flavor.
- Experiment with Bitters: While Angostura and orange bitters are recommended, feel free to experiment with other bitters to discover new flavor combinations that complement the whiskey.
- Mind the Stir: The key to a perfectly chilled and diluted Irish Old Fashioned lies in the stir. A slow, methodical stir ensures that the drink reaches the ideal temperature without becoming too diluted.
The Irish Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned stands is a classic, revered for its ability to amplify the qualities of a chosen spirit. Sugar and bitters work in harmony to accentuate the characteristics of the liquor, while ice provides a dilution that allows its complexities to unfold.
Ordering an Old Fashioned without specifying a spirit often results in a bourbon-based rendition, as whiskey is the traditional choice for this beloved cocktail. Yet, exceptions abound, such as the brandy Old Fashioned popular in Wisconsin or the emerging trend of the Rum Old Fashioned.
However, the Irish Old Fashioned conceived by bartender Jack McGarry takes a unique approach, drawing inspiration from the shores of Ireland and its often overlooked selection of spirits, particularly Irish whiskey.
McGarry opts for Jameson Black Barrel Irish Whiskey, a departure from the standard Jameson bottling due to its 12-year aging process in ex-bourbon and sherry barrels, which imbues it with remarkable depth and complexity.
Irish whiskey’s inherent sweetness calls for minimal sweetening in this variation, eschewing traditional simple syrup in favor of Benedictine, an herbal liqueur. This addition not only adds a touch of sweetness but also brings a subtle botanical depth, complemented by the complexity of both Angostura and orange bitters.
Served over large ice cubes or a single large cube and garnished with an orange twist, the Irish Old Fashioned remains a testament to the enduring appeal of this classic cocktail, offering a unique and flavorful twist that delights both casual drinkers and aficionados alike.
Check out other variations of the Old Fashioned cocktail.
