The Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been around since the 19th century. It’s made by muddling sugar with bitters and water, adding whiskey and garnishing with citrus. While rye whiskey or bourbon are the most traditional spirits used, the Old Fashioned is highly customizable based on personal taste and what’s available. Let’s explore some of the best options for the whiskey base and other ways to riff on an Old Fashioned!
Traditional Old Fashioned Whiskeys
Here are the most common types of whiskey used in traditional Old Fashioned recipes:
- Bourbon – An American whiskey made from a mash of at least 51% corn. Known for its sweetness and vanilla notes from aging in charred oak barrels. Makes a smooth, mellow Old Fashioned.
- Rye – An American whiskey made from a mash of at least 51% rye grain. Known for its spicy, peppery notes. Makes a bold, spicy Old Fashioned.
- Tennessee Whiskey – An American whiskey made in Tennessee, filtered through sugar maple charcoal. Jack Daniel’s is the most famous example. Adds robust flavor and sweetness.
- Canadian Whisky – A smooth blended whiskey from Canada. Provides a mild flavor and is very mixable.
Other Whiskey Options
While traditional, bourbon and rye are not the only liquors you can use in an Old Fashioned. Get creative with these other whiskies:
- Scotch – Single malt or blended Scotch adds richness and smoky undertones.
- Japanese Whisky – Often similar to Scotch but slightly softer and more subtle.
- Irish Whiskey – Triple distilled for a very smooth flavor, often with hints of vanilla.
- American Malt Whiskey – Craft malt whiskeys offer unique flavor profiles, like roasted coffee.
Beyond Whiskey
For an unfamiliar twist, try making an Old Fashioned with non-whiskey spirits. Popular options include:
- Rum – Dark rum adds caramel and spice flavours.
- Brandy – An elegant, oak-aged flavor.
- Tequila – Blanco or reposado tequila for agave flavor.
- Mezcal – Smoky flair from this agave spirit.
The Importance of Bitters
A key ingredient in any Old Fashioned is bitters. Bitters are potent botanical infusions that provide complexity. Just a few dashes enhance the cocktail’s balance, aroma and depth of flavor. Here are some bitters recommendations:
- Angostura – The classic choice, with notes of clove, cinnamon and citrus.
- Orange – Brightens with orange and coriander flavors.
- Peychaud’s – Delivers distinct anise and herbaceousness.
- Cacao – Adds richness and earthiness.
Simple Syrup vs. Sugar Cube
When making an Old Fashioned, you must decide whether to use simple syrup or muddle a sugar cube to sweeten the cocktail. Here is the breakdown:
| Simple Syrup | Sugar Cube |
|---|---|
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It’s a matter of personal preference – try it each way and see which you enjoy most!
Glassware
An Old Fashioned is traditionally served in a short, rocks glass. This sturdy base allows you to muddle ingredients right in the glass. Other serving vessel options include:
- Lowball glass – Similar to a rocks glass but taller.
- Nick and Nora glass – Elegant, curved champagne glass.
- Small mason jar – Rustic presentation.
Garnishes
A peel of citrus rind is the customary Old Fashioned garnish. Orange and lemon are classics, but you can also experiment with lime, grapefruit or other fruit peels. Cherries or berries on a pick can be used in addition to citrus. Spiced garnishes like an expressed orange studded with cloves offer a nice seasonal twist.
Conclusion
While traditionally made with American whiskey like bourbon or rye, the beauty of the Old Fashioned lies in how customizable it is. Tailor your Old Fashioned to your taste preferences by choosing your favorite spirit, bitters, sweetener, glassware and garnishes. Riff on the classic with different whiskies from around the world, substitute rum or brandy, play with fun bitters and get creative with fruit and spice garnishes. No matter how you craft it, the Old Fashioned never goes out of style.