How to Make an Old Fashioned | Step by Step Guide & Variations

Introduction

The Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been around for centuries and continues to be a popular choice among whiskey drinkers. It’s simple, yet flavorful combination of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and muddled fruit makes it a timeless favorite. To make this beloved drink, there are certain steps and techniques that should be followed to ensure the perfect balance of sweet and tart flavors.

Definition of an Old Fashioned

An Old Fashioned is a type of cocktail made with whiskey, bitters, sugar, and muddled fruit, typically orange and/or cherry. It is served in a rocks glass over ice and garnished with an orange peel or maraschino cherry. The Old Fashioned is often considered the original cocktail, as it is believed to have been created in the early 1800s.

History and Evolution of the Old Fashioned

The original version of the Old Fashioned was known as the “Whiskey Cocktail” and consisted of whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. Over time, the recipe evolved to include muddled fruit and other ingredients such as liqueurs and syrups. Today, the Old Fashioned is widely enjoyed as a classic whiskey cocktail.

Recipes for a Classic Old-Fashioned

For a classic Old-Fashioned, you will need whiskey, bitters, sugar, and muddled fruit. The traditional recipe calls for 2 ounces of whiskey (typically bourbon or rye), 2 dashes of bitters, 1 teaspoon of sugar, and 1 orange slice and 1 maraschino cherry. The orange slice and cherry are muddled in the bottom of the glass before adding the other ingredients.

Compare Traditional Recipes

There are many variations of the traditional Old Fashioned recipe. For example, some recipes call for the addition of a small splash of club soda or orange juice. Others may use agave syrup instead of sugar, or use other types of fruit like lemon or lime. It is important to experiment with different recipes to find the one that best suits your taste.

Explore Variations

In addition to the traditional Old Fashioned recipe, there are many variations that can be made. Some popular variations include the Sazerac (which uses Cognac instead of whiskey), the Boulevardier (which uses Campari instead of bitters), and the Vieux Carré (which adds brandy and vermouth). These variations can be great ways to add new flavors to the classic Old Fashioned.

Muddling Fruit and Other Ingredients

Muddling is a technique used to mix and macerate fruits and other ingredients in a cocktail. To muddle properly, use a muddler or the back of a wooden spoon to gently mash the fruits and other ingredients in the bottom of the glass until they are well combined. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can result in a bitter flavor.

Tips for Muddling

When muddling, it is important to use fresh, ripe fruit. If the fruit is too firm, it can be difficult to muddle and the resulting flavor will be less intense. Also, make sure to muddle the fruit in the same direction for optimal flavor extraction. Finally, make sure to strain the muddled fruit from the drink after adding the other ingredients.

Demonstrate Step by Step Instructions

To make an Old Fashioned, start by filling a rocks glass with ice. Add 2 ounces of whiskey (bourbon or rye work best), 2 dashes of bitters, and 1 teaspoon of sugar. Add 1 orange slice and 1 maraschino cherry to the glass and muddle until the fruit is well combined. Finally, stir the mixture until the sugar is dissolved and strain into the glass. Garnish with an orange peel or maraschino cherry.

Comparing an Old Fashioned to Other Drinks

The Old Fashioned is often compared to other popular whiskey drinks, such as the Manhattan and the Sour. The Manhattan is similar to the Old Fashioned but includes sweet vermouth, while the Sour is a mix of whiskey, citrus, and sugar. Both drinks are popular alternatives to the Old Fashioned, but each has its own unique flavor profile.

Choosing Glassware

When making an Old Fashioned, it is important to choose the right glassware. A rocks glass is the traditional choice, as it allows the drink to be served over ice and allows for adequate stirring. However, other glasses such as a highball glass or tumbler can also be used. When selecting a glass, make sure the size and shape are appropriate for the amount of ingredients being used.

Conclusion

The Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been around for centuries. To make the perfect Old Fashioned, follow the traditional recipe of whiskey, bitters, sugar, and muddled fruit. There are also many variations of the drink, such as the Manhattan and the Sour, which offer different flavor profiles. Finally, it is important to choose the right glassware for the drink, as this can affect the overall flavor.

Making an Old Fashioned can take some practice, but once you get the hang of it, you can start experimenting with different recipes and techniques. With a bit of experimentation, you can create your own unique twist on the classic Old Fashioned.

For more information on the history and evolution of the Old Fashioned, as well as tips and tricks for making the perfect cocktail, check out the resources below.

Suggest Further Research

The International Bartenders Association: https://www.iba-world.com/cocktails/old-fashioned/

The Spruce Eats: https://www.thespruceeats.com/old-fashioned-cocktail-recipe-759284

Serious Eats: https://www.seriouseats.com/recipes/2016/12/old-fashioned-cocktail-recipe.