The Rum Old Fashioned is a warm twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, swapping out the traditional base of whiskey for the rich, complex flavors of dark rum.
This adaptation not only pays homage to the original’s storied past but also introduces a Caribbean flair, making it a perfect choice for those who appreciate the depth and versatility of rum.
By adding allspice dram and demerara syrup, the Rum Old Fashioned offers a blend of sweetness, spice, and everything nice.
Here’s a guide on how to make the Rum Old Fashioned cocktail at home.
Rum Old Fashioned Ingredients
- Dark Rum (2 ounces / 60 ml): Serves as the foundation of the cocktail, offering notes of molasses, caramel, and a hint of spice.
- Allspice Dram (1 teaspoon / 5 ml): Adds a layer of warmth with its rich, spiced flavors reminiscent of cinnamon, nutmeg, and clove.
- Demerara Syrup (1 teaspoon / 5 ml): Provides a sweetness with its rich, molasses-like qualities, enhancing the rum’s natural flavors.
- Angostura Bitters (2 dashes): Adds a herbal complexity and depth to the cocktail.
- Orange Bitters (2 dashes): Adds a citrusy brightness, balancing the drink’s sweetness and spice.
- Garnish: Orange Twist: Imparts a fragrant citrus aroma and adds a touch of elegance to the presentation.
Rum Old Fashioned Recipe
- Preparing the Glass:
- Begin by placing a large ice cube into an Old Fashioned glass.
- The use of a single large ice cube ensures slower melting, minimizing dilution and maintaining the cocktail’s strength and flavor.
- Combining the Ingredients:
- Pour 2 ounces (60 ml) of dark rum, 1 teaspoon of allspice dram, 1 teaspoon of demerara syrup, and two dashes each of Angostura and orange bitters over the ice cube.
- The choice of dark rum is crucial, as its rich flavor profile is essential for achieving the desired depth and warmth in the cocktail.
- Stirring to Chill:
- Stir the mixture in the glass until well-chilled. This step not only cools the drink but also ensures that the ingredients are fully integrated, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Adding the Garnish:
- Garnish with an orange twist. To do this, cut 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. This adds a final layer of aroma and flavor that complements the spiced, sweet notes of the cocktail.
Tips for the Best Rum Old Fashioned
- Select Quality Ingredients: Opt for a high-quality dark rum that you enjoy on its own, and consider making your own demerara syrup for an extra touch of homemade excellence.
- Experiment with Ratios: Feel free to adjust the ratios of allspice dram and demerara syrup to tailor the cocktail to your taste preferences. Some may prefer a sweeter drink, while others might enjoy the warmth of the spices taking center stage.
- Mind the Stir: The key to a perfectly chilled and integrated Rum Old Fashioned is in the stir. A gentle, thorough stir ensures that the drink reaches the ideal temperature and dilution for optimal enjoyment.
The Rum Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned remains a classic in the world of cocktails. Its popularity has endured for over a century, thanks in part to its remarkable adaptability, which allows for endless customizations, catering to the tastes of adventurous drinkers while honoring its traditional roots.
While some purists may insist on sticking strictly to whiskey in an Old Fashioned, it’s important to recognize that the drink is more of a flexible template than a rigid recipe.
With its basic components of spirit, sugar, water, and bitters—the essence of the original cocktail definition—the Old Fashioned invites creative exploration. Even in the 1862 edition of “The Bartenders Guide” by Jerry Thomas, an Old Fashioned made with Holland gin was featured, showcasing the cocktail’s inherent versatility.
It’s time to challenge the notion that whiskey is the only suitable option for an Old Fashioned. Otherwise, one might miss out on delightful reinterpretations like the Oaxacan Old Fashioned with tequila and mezcal, or the Rum Old Fashioned made with with dark rum.
The Rum Old Fashioned has variations ranging as widely as the selection of rums, sweeteners, and bitters available. In this version, dark rum takes center stage, offering rich oaky notes from barrel aging, reminiscent of whiskey and appealing to aficionados of both spirits.
The addition of allspice dram introduces an extra layer of spice and complexity, while demerara syrup, derived from raw cane sugar, provides a luxurious depth of flavor and texture. The combination of orange and Angostura bitters adds a harmonious balance, with citrus zest and bold aromatic undertones.
While this rendition may deviate from the traditional whiskey-based Old Fashioned, it offers a delightful twist that retains a sense of familiarity while introducing unique flavors and character. It’s a variation worth exploring for both traditionalists and adventurous drinkers alike.
Check out some more variations of the Old Fashioned recipe.
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