The Old-Fashioned, an Enduring Classic Cocktail
The Old-Fashioned cocktail recipe blends rye (or bourbon or scotch) with sugar and bitters. Those last two ingredients mellow the flavor of the rye slightly, but its flavor will still dominate.
The aptly-named Old-Fashioned is one of the earliest classic cocktails. In fact, this drink is such a standby that it gave its name to the type of glass it’s traditionally served in (the ten ounce “old fashioned”).
Few cocktails have as much enduring charm and sophistication as the Old Fashioned. This classic drink has been a favorite among generations of drinkers.
The History of the Old Fashioned
The origins of the Old Fashioned can be traced back to the early 19th century, when the term “cocktail” first emerged as a way to describe a specific type of alcoholic beverage. The earliest known recipe for the Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s, when it was described as a combination of spirit, bitters, water, and sugar.
Over the years, the Old Fashioned has evolved. However, the core elements of the cocktail remain unchanged – a spirit (typically bourbon or rye whiskey), bitters, sugar, and a citrus garnish.
The Key Ingredients in an Old Fashioned
Whiskey
You can use bourbon or rye whiskey. Bourbon has sweeter, caramel-like notes, while rye whiskey offers a more spicy and herbaceous character.
The choice of whiskey can greatly influence the overall taste of the Old Fashioned. Bartenders and enthusiasts often experiment with different expressions, from high-rye bourbons to small-batch rye whiskeys, to find their perfect combination.
Bitters
Bitters providing a complex and aromatic layer to the cocktail. The most common type of bitters used is Angostura bitters, with its distinctive blend of herbs and spices.
However, you can experiment with other bitters, such as orange or aromatic bitters.
Sugar
The classic sweetener is a sugar cube, but you can also use simple syrup. The sugar helps to balance the strong, bold flavors of the whiskey and bitters, creating a well-rounded and harmonious drink.
Citrus
A twist of orange or lemon peel adds a bright, aromatic element that complements the other ingredients. The citrus oils expressed from the peel help to lift the cocktail’s aroma and provide a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, complex flavors.
Occasions for Serving the Old Fashioned
This drink is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed on a variety of occasions, from intimate gatherings to formal events. You can serve it on a quiet evening at home or a small gathering of close friends.
You could also built a whole cocktail party around it, or serve it at a wedding or other high-end event. It’s great for birthdays, anniversaries, and congratulatory events like a retirement party.
Food Pairings
The bold, complex flavors of this drink make it a versatile cocktail when it comes to food pairings. It’s great with steak and roasted meats, a cheese board and chocolate desserts.
Related Cocktails to Try
Old-Fashioned Drink Recipe
Uncover the history, key ingredients, food pairings, and variations of the timeless Old Fashioned cocktail in our comprehensive guide to mixology.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube or 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Cherry, orange or lemon twist, for garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with bitters until dissolved. If using simple syrup, skip this step.
- Add whiskey to the glass and fill it with ice.
- Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill the mixture.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Express the oils from the citrus twist over the drink and garnish.
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