Old Fashioned – Cocktail of the Month

When it comes to timeless cocktails, few drinks carry the weight and prestige of the Old Fashioned. A staple in bars across the globe, this classic cocktail has earned its spot in cocktail culture as a go-to choice for those who appreciate a drink with substance. With its simple yet refined flavors, the Old Fashioned embodies everything we love about cocktails; balance, character, and a deep connection to the past.

Though countless variations of the Old Fashioned have popped up over the years, the true beauty of this cocktail lies in its tradition. The core of an Old Fashioned is whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a touch of water, all coming together in perfect harmony to create a drink that has withstood the test of time.

The History of the Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 19th century, making it one of the oldest documented cocktails in existence. It’s believed to have originated in the 1800s at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, where it was first crafted by a bartender who was asked to make a cocktail that was “old-fashioned” by a customer who was tired of the new, fancy drinks that were taking over the bar scene. The result was a drink that embraced the simplicity of whiskey, sugar, and bitters, quickly becoming a favorite of those who enjoyed a more traditional drink.

Over time, the Old Fashioned became synonymous with elegance, often associated with the polished, sophisticated social scene of the 20th century. It was the drink of choice for figures like Frank Sinatra and James Bond, cementing its place in cocktail history as a symbol of refined taste and class.

Despite its long history, the Old Fashioned remains just as relevant today. It’s a drink that’s as enduring as it is enjoyable, offering a perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and boozy flavors.

What Makes a Good Old Fashioned

While the Old Fashioned’s ingredients may seem simple, the key to making a truly great one lies in the quality and balance of those ingredients. Let’s break down the essentials that make the perfect Old Fashioned:

Whiskey
The backbone of any Old Fashioned is whiskey. You can use either rye or bourbon, depending on your preference. Rye whiskey tends to have a spicier, peppery flavor, while bourbon brings a smoother, sweeter profile to the drink. The key is to choose a whiskey that’s bold and high-proof, anything over 100 proof is ideal, as the extra alcohol helps the drink maintain its strength even as the ice begins to melt.

Try:

• Knob Creek
• W.L. Weller Antique
• Booker’s
• Old Grand-Dad
• Baker’s
• Wild Turkey 101
• Wild Turkey Rare Breed
• Rittenhouse

Glass
The Old Fashioned glass (also known as a rocks glass) is just as important as the drink itself. The ideal glass should be between 8 to 10 oz with a thick, heavy bottom to help keep the ice from diluting your drink too quickly. This sturdy base ensures that the drink is properly balanced, no matter how much ice you add.

Ice
Since the Old Fashioned is a sipping cocktail, it’s important to avoid ice that melts too quickly and waters down the drink. Larger ice cubes or an ice sphere are best, as they melt slowly, maintaining the integrity of the drink for longer.

Sweetener
Though there’s some debate about which sweetener is best, the classic Old Fashioned uses a sugar cube, though simple syrup, honey, maple syrup, or agave nectar can also work. If you’re using a sugar cube or raw sugar, it’s best to dissolve it with a splash of warm water before adding the rest of your ingredients. When using simple syrup, be sure to dilute it with an equal part of water for the perfect level of sweetness.

Bitters
Bitters are crucial for balancing the sweetness of the sugar with a hint of bitterness. While there are plenty of flavored bitters available, the tried-and-true favorite is Angostura bitters. Just a couple dashes will add depth to the drink without overpowering the other flavors.

Technique
The key to making an Old Fashioned is stirring, not shaking. After adding all your ingredients to the glass, stir well for about 20-30 seconds to ensure everything is well-mixed and chilled. This method helps maintain the clarity of the drink while allowing the flavors to meld together.

Garnish
The garnish is what adds that final touch to your Old Fashioned. An orange peel is the traditional choice, offering a citrusy aroma that complements the drink’s flavor profile. Some people even add a lemon twist for an added layer of freshness.

The Classic Old Fashioned Recipe

Ready to make the perfect Old Fashioned? Here’s the classic recipe that never goes out of style:

Ingredients

• 2 ounces rye or bourbon
• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 ounce simple syrup)
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• A splash of warm water (if using sugar cube or raw sugar)
• Garnish: orange peel

Directions

1. In a double rocks glass, muddle the sugar cube or sugar with the Angostura bitters and a small splash of warm water until the sugar is dissolved.
2. If using simple syrup, simply swirl it with the bitters in the glass.
3. Add the whiskey and ice (preferably a large cube or ice sphere) and stir well for 20-30 seconds to chill and combine.
4. Garnish with a twist of orange peel, expressing the oils over the drink before placing it in the glass.

The Old Fashioned in Popular Culture

The Old Fashioned has long been associated with sophistication and elegance. It’s the drink of choice for characters like Don Draper in Mad Men, further cementing its status as a cocktail for those who appreciate the finer things in life. The Old Fashioned has also appeared in countless films and books, often symbolizing class, refinement, and a connection to tradition.

In recent years, the Old Fashioned has seen a resurgence, thanks to the craft cocktail movement. Bartenders have embraced this classic cocktail, experimenting with different whiskeys, bitters, and garnishes to create unique variations while staying true to the drink’s original spirit.

Pairing the Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed alongside a wide range of foods. Its bold flavor profile pairs especially well with:

• Grilled Meats: The strong flavors of the Old Fashioned complement the smoky, savory taste of grilled steak, ribs, or burgers.
• Charcuterie: The cocktail’s slightly sweet, spicy, and bitter notes work well with salty, fatty meats like prosciutto or salami.
• Cheese: Pair it with sharp cheeses such as aged cheddar or gouda, which contrast nicely with the drink’s complexity.
• Chocolate: Dark chocolate, in particular, complements the whiskey and bitters of the Old Fashioned for a delightful end to a meal.

The Final Word

The Old Fashioned remains a bar staple for good reason. It’s simple, yet sophisticated, and offers a perfect balance of flavors that never gets old. Whether you’re sipping it slowly at a quiet bar or enjoying it as part of a lively night out, this cocktail has a timeless quality that makes it as relevant today as it was when it was first created.

So, next time you’re looking for a cocktail that’s as rich in history as it is in flavor, reach for the Old Fashioned. Cheers to tradition, balance, and the perfect drink.