Classic Old Fashioned co*cktail - Recipe and secrets (2024)

co*cktails

Old Fashioned co*cktail – A Timeless Classic

co*cktails, as a phenomenon, have only been around for a couple of centuries at most. The very word “co*cktail” is undoubtedly English, and its first dictionary definition (i.e., its first mention) reads: … it is a stimulating drink consisting of a strong alcoholic beverage mixed with water, sugar, and bitters. Thus, the Old Fashioned co*cktail, truly deserves its name – it is the true, pristine image of a co*cktail icon. Knowing it should not only be a requirement for every bartender but also for anyone who considers themselves even a bit knowledgeable about the co*cktail world.

The Origins of co*cktails and the Iconic Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned stands alongside giants such as the Martini, Daiquiri, or, let’s say, Mojito. The first mention of it dates back to 1895 in the book “Modern American Drinks” (1895, George J. Kappeler), which is 89 years older than the mention of the essence of the word “co*cktail” (first decoded by the chief editor of the newspaper “The Balance and Columbia Repository” (Columbia County, New York, 1802 — 1811)). co*cktails with a similar composition were often encountered earlier, but it was this variation that was named the Old Fashioned. Its recipe can be translated as follows:

“Dissolve a cube of refined sugar in a small amount of water in a whiskey glass (which was later called the Old Fashioned glass). Add two dashes of Angostura bitters and a small piece of ice, a lemon zest slice, and a jigger of bourbon. Mix thoroughly with a small bar spoon (presumably a regular coffee spoon) and serve, leaving the spoon in the glass.”

Crafting the Perfect Old Fashioned co*cktail Recipe

The Old Fashioned became one of the first co*cktails to be classified as a classic. The recipe on the official website of the International Bartenders Association is presented below.

Old Fashioned co*cktail Recipe – Craft Your Own Classic

Officially created at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky – the heartland of bourbon – the Old Fashioned co*cktail holds a special place in mixology history. However, the International Bartenders Association does not exclude the use of either bourbon or rye whiskey in its composition.

The Birthplace of the Old Fashioned and Its Versatile Ingredients

The Old Fashioned is traditionally served only in an Old-Fashioned glass, also known as a rocks glass – a glass with a thick bottom to keep the drink cold for as long as possible.

Ingredients:

25 ml bourbon or rye whiskey
2 dashes of Angostura bitters
1 sugar cube
Several dashes of water

Step-by-Step Guide to Crafting the Perfect Old Fashioned co*cktail

Place the sugar cube in the rocks glass and add a few drops of Angostura bitters, then add a little water.
Dissolve the sugar completely and add a couple of large ice cubes.
Pour in the whiskey, garnish with an orange slice and a cherry, and serve.

Old Fashioned co*cktail Variations - Modern Twists and Timeless Elegance

Traditionally, the Old Fashioned co*cktail is crafted using bourbon or rye whiskey (Canadian Club is also an option). However, today’s bartenders embrace the use of any other premium spirits as the alcoholic base. Scotch whisky, for instance, adds a Scottish character and can be enhanced with a few drops of Drambuie liqueur instead of sugar. The Old Fashioned also pairs well with rums, brandies, cognacs, and even Armagnac. While some variations involve mixing different spirits, this is typically left to experienced mixologists. Regardless, the essence of the co*cktail remains unchanged – it’s still the good old “co*cktail.”

Exploring the Versatility of Old Fashioned co*cktails

A more fashionable trend is to prepare the co*cktail using the Muddling method. This involves adding an orange slice and a cherry to the sugar and bitters, then muddling them. This technique softens the Old Fashioned while simultaneously masking both the positive and negative qualities of the spirit base. Nonetheless, esteemed mixologist Don DeGroff prefers this method of preparation – he knows exactly how to please the sophisticated crowd.

Additionally, various liqueurs and bitters can be added to the Old Fashioned. At the very least, one can try mixing orange and traditional Angostura bitters. At most, a few drops of Cointreau or Curacao liqueur, or Maraschino liqueur, can be added. Essentially, there are almost no limitations, and everyone can find something to suit their taste and budget. Beginners may start with a simplified version: cane sugar – bourbon – ice – water – orange zest (which can be pre-squeezed for essential oils – American drinks pair very well with citrus). More experienced drinkers should pay attention to the classic version with Angostura bitters. As for the most fervent connoisseurs, they should try their own unique Old Fashioned with the smoky taste of mezcal: dissolve a spoonful of muscovado sugar in a couple of drops of Angostura and Aphrodite bitters, add a portion of mezcal, ice, preferably chipped from a huge block, and olives soaked in island whisky.

Elevating Your Old Fashioned Experience

The Old Fashioned is best enjoyed after work – as they say, with a loosened tie and engaging in a favorite home activity. It’s a masculine classic – a mouth-numbing concoction that will leave you paralyzed, but the numbing effect will fade with time, leaving behind sheer pleasure!

Jack Collins

Hey there, I'm Jack! I've always been fascinated by the world of beverages, especially the enchantment of co*cktails. As an enthusiastic bartender, I've gathered plenty of experiences throughout my years in the hospitality industry. I thrive on discovering new flavors and combinations, and I frequently experiment with new recipes at my own home bar. My passion is sharing this knowledge and inspiration with others, and I hope my articles will help you explore the exciting world of mixology at The Beverage Boulevard!

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March 21, 2024