Old Fashioned

An Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that typically consists of whiskey (usually bourbon or rye), sugar, and bitters, typically served over ice in a lowball glass and garnished with a twist of citrus peel. Here is a recipe for making an Old Fashioned:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 tsp Demerara sugar (or a sugar cube)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a lowball glass, add sugar and bitters.
2. Muddle the sugar and bitters together until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add whiskey to the glass and stir.
4. Fill the glass with ice and stir again.
5. Garnish with a twist of orange peel.
6. Enjoy your Old Fashioned!

Note: The recipe can be adjusted to personal taste. For example, some people prefer more or less sugar, and different bitters can be used.

Old Fashioned History

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around for over 150 years. The origins of the drink can be traced back to the late 1800s, when it was first mentioned in print in a newspaper article in 1881. The drink was originally called a “whiskey cocktail” and was made with just sugar, bitters, and whiskey.

The Old Fashioned as we know it today, with the addition of a citrus peel, was created in the early 1880s at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky. The drink quickly became popular among the wealthy and elite, and by the turn of the century, it was being served in bars and clubs across the United States.

During the Prohibition Era (1920-1933), the Old Fashioned’s popularity continued to grow as it was relatively easy to make with illegally obtained alcohol. After the repeal of prohibition, the Old Fashioned’s popularity waned, but it was rediscovered in the 1950s and 1960s and has remained a popular cocktail to this day.

The Old Fashioned is considered as one of the first “mixed” drinks and is often cited as the grandfather of all cocktails. The drink has undergone many changes and variations over the years, but the traditional recipe remains a classic and continues to be a popular choice among whiskey lovers.

Old Fashioned Variations

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a simple recipe, but it can be easily modified to suit different tastes. Some popular variations of the Old Fashioned include:

1. Fruit Old Fashioned: This variation features the addition of a muddled piece of fruit, such as an orange, cherry, or apple. The fruit adds a fresh and fruity flavour to the drink.
2. Maple Old Fashioned: This variation swaps out the traditional sugar for maple syrup, giving the drink a unique sweetness and a hint of maple flavour.
3. Spiced Old Fashioned: This variation adds spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg, or allspice to the drink, giving it a warm and comforting flavour.
4. Smoked Old Fashioned: This variation uses a smoky whiskey or adds a smokey flavor to the drink by using a smoke infusing device.
5. Sazerac Old Fashioned: This variation is considered as the official cocktail of New Orleans, it is made with Rye whiskey, Peychaud’s bitters and Herbsaint or absinthe as a rinse.
6. Bourbon Old Fashioned: The original recipe calls for Rye whiskey, but using bourbon will give a sweeter and smoother taste.
7. Coffee Old Fashioned: This variation adds a splash of coffee or cold brew to the drink, giving it a unique and rich flavour.

These are just a few examples of the many ways that the Old Fashioned can be modified. With a little creativity and experimentation, you can come up with your own unique variation of this classic cocktail.

Best Bourbon for an Old Fashioned

When it comes to making an Old Fashioned, the best bourbon to use is one that has a strong, bold flavor that can stand up to the bitters and sugar in the drink. Some popular bourbon brands that are commonly used in Old Fashioned cocktails include:

1. Maker’s Mark: This bourbon is known for its smooth, easy-drinking flavor and is a great choice for those who prefer a sweeter Old Fashioned.
2. Bulleit Bourbon: This bourbon has a high-rye content which gives it a bold and spicy flavor that pairs well with the bitters in an Old Fashioned.
3. Woodford Reserve: This bourbon is known for its rich, complex flavor and is a great choice for those who prefer a more robust Old Fashioned.
4. Knob Creek: This bourbon is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor, making it a great choice for those who like a strong Old Fashioned.
5. Four Roses: This bourbon has a mix of different recipes, each of them gives a unique flavor, it is a great choice for those who like to experiment with different variations.
6. Wild Turkey: This bourbon has a strong and bold flavor that pairs well with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.

Ultimately, the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned is a matter of personal preference. The key is to experiment with different brands and find one that you like the taste of.