Introduction
The old fashioned is one of the oldest cocktails in existence. It has been around since the 19th century and continues to be enjoyed by countless people around the world. The drink is a simple combination of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water, making it a classic favorite among cocktail connoisseurs. In this article, we will explore the history and popularity of the old fashioned, as well as provide step-by-step instructions on how to make a perfect version of the popular drink.
A Look Back at Classic Old Fashioned Recipes
The traditional recipe for an old fashioned calls for two ounces of whiskey (usually bourbon or rye), one teaspoon of sugar, two dashes of bitters, and a splash of water. This combination is then stirred together with ice and served over a single large cube of ice. The drink can also be garnished with an orange peel or a cherry, depending on personal preference. This classic recipe has been around for centuries and is still enjoyed today.
Common variations on the old fashioned include adding different types of liqueurs or syrups, such as maraschino, or using a flavored whiskey instead of a traditional one. For example, an apple brandy old fashioned uses apple brandy instead of whiskey, while a Manhattan old fashioned adds sweet vermouth to the mix. There are many variations on the classic recipe, so it’s up to the individual to create the perfect old fashioned for their tastes.
How to Make an Authentic Old Fashioned
To make an authentic old fashioned, you will need the following ingredients: two ounces of whiskey (preferably bourbon or rye), one teaspoon of sugar, two dashes of bitters, and a splash of water. You will also need ice, an orange peel, and a cherry for garnish.
Once you have all the ingredients, you can begin making your old fashioned. Start by pouring the whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water into a mixing glass. Add a few cubes of ice and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with one large cube of ice. Garnish with an orange peel and a cherry, and enjoy!
Exploring the History of the Old Fashioned
The origin story of the old fashioned is shrouded in mystery, but most experts agree that it was invented in the mid-1800s. The first recorded mention of the drink dates back to 1806, when American author William Cobbett wrote about a “whiskey cocktail” in his book A Treatise on Whiskey. However, the earliest known recipe for the old fashioned appears in Jerry Thomas’ 1862 book How to Mix Drinks, which includes instructions for a “whiskey cocktail (Old Fashioned)”.
Since then, the old fashioned has become a staple in bars around the world. It has been mentioned in books, movies, and television shows and is often featured in contemporary cocktail menus. Its simple yet sophisticated flavor profile has made it a perennial favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.
The Best Whiskeys for Making an Old Fashioned
When it comes to making an old fashioned, the type of whiskey used is key. The best whiskeys for an old fashioned are bourbon and rye. Bourbon is made from corn, rye is made from rye grains, and both are aged for several years in oak barrels. Both whiskies have a bold flavor that stands up nicely to the other ingredients in an old fashioned.
Some popular brands for making an old fashioned include Jim Beam, Maker’s Mark, Bulleit, and Knob Creek. However, there are many other excellent whiskeys available, so feel free to experiment to find the one that best suits your taste.
An Exploration of Bitters in the Old Fashioned
Bitters are an essential component of any old fashioned. They add complexity and depth of flavor to the drink and help to balance out the sweetness of the sugar. Bitters come in a variety of flavors, from citrus to herbal to spicy, and each type brings something unique to the drink.
Popular bitters for making an old fashioned include Angostura, Peychaud’s, and Fee Brothers. Each type of bitters has its own distinctive flavor, so experiment to find the one that works best for your taste. Just remember to use them sparingly; a few dashes are all you need.
A Guide to Garnishes for the Old Fashioned
Garnishes are a great way to add a touch of personality to an old fashioned. Popular garnishes include an orange peel, a lemon peel, a cherry, or a slice of fresh fruit. When selecting a garnish, it’s important to choose one that complements the other flavors in the drink. For example, an orange peel would work well with a bourbon old fashioned, while a cherry might be better suited to a rye whiskey old fashioned.
When preparing a garnish, make sure to express the oils from the peel or fruit before adding it to the drink. To do this, simply twist the peel or lightly squeeze the fruit to release the oils. Once the garnish is added, the drink is ready to be served.
Variations on the Old Fashioned Cocktail
The old fashioned is a versatile cocktail that can be adapted to suit any taste. Classic variations of the drink include the Manhattan old fashioned, which adds sweet vermouth, and the apple brandy old fashioned, which swaps in apple brandy for the whiskey. Modern variations of the drink include the espresso old fashioned, which adds cold brew coffee, and the tequila old fashioned, which swaps out the whiskey for tequila.
No matter what variation you choose, the key to making a perfect old fashioned is to use quality ingredients and to experiment until you find the perfect balance of flavors. With a little practice, you’ll be able to make a delicious old fashioned every time.
Conclusion
The old fashioned is a timeless classic that has stood the test of time. In this article, we explored the history and popularity of the old fashioned, as well as provided step-by-step instructions on how to make a perfect version of the drink. We also discussed the best whiskeys, bitters, and garnishes for making an old fashioned, as well as some classic and modern variations of the drink.
If you’re looking to make an old fashioned, remember to use quality ingredients and to experiment until you find the perfect combination of flavors. With a little practice, you’ll be able to make a delicious old fashioned every time.
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