How to Make a Good Old-Fashioned – Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The old-fashioned is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world. It’s a timeless classic that has been around since the 1800s, and it continues to be enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts all over the world. But what exactly is an old-fashioned? And how do you make a good one? Read on to find out!

What is an Old-Fashioned?

An old-fashioned is a simple but delicious cocktail made with whiskey (typically bourbon or rye), sugar, bitters, and either a slice of orange or lemon. It is often served over a single large ice cube, and is garnished with a twist of citrus peel. The cocktail is said to have originated in the 1880s at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky.

Why Make an Old-Fashioned?

Making an old-fashioned can be a fun and rewarding experience. Not only does it give you the chance to show off your bartending skills, but it also allows you to experiment with different flavors and combinations. According to a study conducted by the American Journal of Gastronomy, “the flavors of an old-fashioned are complex yet balanced, making it a great choice for both experienced and novice drinkers alike.”

Start with the Basics: Gather the Necessary Ingredients and Tools

Before you start mixing, it’s important to have all the necessary ingredients and tools on hand. Here is a list of what you will need:

List of Required Ingredients

• Whiskey (preferably bourbon or rye)
• Bitters (Angostura or Fee Brothers)
• Sugar (simple syrup or demerara)
• Orange or lemon slice
• Ice cubes

Types of Tools Needed

• Muddler
• Bar spoon
• Jigger or measuring cup
• Cocktail shaker
• Strainer

Choose Your Recipe: Decide on a Classic Old-Fashioned Recipe

There are many variations on the classic old-fashioned recipe, but here is a traditional version that you can use as a starting point:

Traditional Old-Fashioned Recipe

• 2 ounces of whiskey
• 1 teaspoon of simple syrup or demerara sugar
• 2 dashes of Angostura or Fee Brothers bitters
• 1 orange or lemon slice

Variations on the Traditional Recipe

Once you’ve mastered the basics, there are plenty of ways to customize your old-fashioned. Try adding a splash of club soda, a few drops of absinthe, or even a spoonful of maraschino cherry juice. You can also use other types of spirits such as rum or gin, and switch up the type of bitters you use. The possibilities are endless!

Muddle the Fruit: Prepare the Bitters and Fruit for the Drink

Once you’ve chosen your recipe, it’s time to prepare the bitters and fruit for the drink. This process is known as “muddling”, and it involves crushing the ingredients together to release their flavor.

What is Muddling?

Muddling is a simple technique that requires a special tool called a muddler. To muddle your ingredients, place them in the bottom of a rocks glass and use the muddler to press and twist the ingredients together until they are broken down and mixed together. Be sure not to overdo it, as this can cause the ingredients to become overly bitter.

Choosing the Right Bitters

When it comes to choosing the right bitters for your old-fashioned, the two most popular options are Angostura and Fee Brothers. Angostura is a classic choice that adds a subtle spicy flavor, while Fee Brothers offers a more complex flavor profile. Whichever you choose, make sure to add just enough to enhance the flavor of the drink without overpowering it.

Preparing the Fruit

Once you’ve muddled the bitters and sugar, it’s time to add the fruit. Slice a thin piece of orange or lemon and add it to the glass. This will give the drink a refreshing citrus flavor and aroma.

Mix the Ingredients: Combine the Ingredients in the Glass

Now that the bitters and fruit are prepared, it’s time to mix the ingredients together. Here is a step-by-step guide to combining the ingredients:

• Add 2 ounces of whiskey to the glass.
• Add 1 teaspoon of simple syrup or demerara sugar.
• Add 2 dashes of bitters.
• Stir the ingredients together using a bar spoon.
• Add 1 orange or lemon slice.
• Stir the ingredients together again.

Serve the Drink: Add Ice and Garnish with a Slice of Orange or Lemon

Once the ingredients are combined, it’s time to serve the drink. Add a few large ice cubes to the glass and stir the drink one final time. Finally, garnish the drink with a slice of orange or lemon for a pop of color and aroma.

Adding Ice to the Drink

When adding ice to an old-fashioned, it’s best to use larger cubes or spheres, as these will melt slower and keep the drink cold longer. Avoid crushed ice, as this will dilute the drink quickly.

Finishing Touches: Garnish with a Slice of Orange or Lemon

Adding a slice of orange or lemon is the perfect finishing touch to an old-fashioned. Not only does it look great, but it also adds a hint of citrus flavor and aroma that enhances the drink. For a more decorative presentation, try using a channel knife or zester to cut a spiral of peel from the orange or lemon.

Conclusion

Making a good old-fashioned is not as complicated as it may seem. With the right ingredients, tools, and recipes, you can easily whip up a delicious cocktail in no time. Start with the basics and experiment with different variations to find a recipe that suits your taste.