The Old Fashioned is not just a cocktail; it’s a piece of history, served in a glass, offering a smooth, rich, and versatile drinking experience.
In the world of cocktails, few can boast the timeless appeal and simplicity of the Old Fashioned. This drink is a testament to the saying that less is more, proving that you don’t need a long list of ingredients to create something truly exceptional.
There are a lot of simple cocktails with just three ingredients and an Old Fashioned in one of our favorites. You can even dress it up with a flavored simple syrup, like this Blueberry Old Fashioned.
Why You’ll Love It
- We appreciate the Old Fashioned for its straightforward composition and the depth of flavor it delivers.
- It’s the perfect cocktail for those evenings when you crave something classic, yet sophisticated. The blend of whiskey, bitters, and a touch of sweetness is like a warm embrace, ideal for winding down after a long day or kicking off a relaxing weekend.
- Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail aficionado or new to the world of mixed drinks, the Old Fashioned is sure to impress with its elegance and simplicity.
Ingredients You Need
- Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- Angostura Bitters
- Sugar Cube
- Optional: Orange Twist and a Maraschino Cherry for garnish
How to Make an Old Fashioned
Prepare the Sugar Base: Place the sugar cube in a lowball glass. Sprinkle the Angostura bitters over the sugar cube and add a splash of water. Use a muddler to crush the sugar cube and mix it with the bitters and water until you have a thick paste. This step is crucial for a balanced flavor profile, allowing the sugar to fully dissolve and meld with the bitters.
Add the Whiskey: Pour the bourbon or rye whiskey into the glass. The choice between bourbon and rye depends on your preference for a sweeter (bourbon) or spicier (rye) profile.
Stir and Chill: Add a couple large ice cubes to the glass. Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds to chill the drink and achieve a slight dilution, which opens up the whiskey’s flavors.
Garnish and Serve: For a touch of elegance and an extra layer of flavor, garnish with an orange twist and/or a maraschino cherry. Simply twist the orange peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it in along with the cherry.
The Perfect Glass
Serving an Old Fashioned in the right glass is as important as the drink itself. We are serving ours in a Glencairn mixer glass. The mixer glass is perfect for an on-the-rocks simple cocktail like the Old Fashioned. It’s also gorgeous, don’t you think? Glencairn is the maker of the perfect whisky glass that can be found in every distillery in Scotland, Ireland and Wales. These mixer glasses were made with the same tulip shape to help you appreciate the aroma of the whisky.
If you don’t have a mixer glass, opt for a sturdy, lowball, or old fashioned glass. This type of glass not only enhances the visual appeal of the cocktail but also provides the perfect shape for the aromas to concentrate, allowing you to fully enjoy the nuanced flavors of your drink.
In crafting an Old Fashioned, you’re not just making a cocktail; you’re pouring a piece of history. Its simplicity, elegance, and depth of flavor make it a beloved choice for many.
Whether you’re toasting to a special occasion or simply savoring a quiet moment, the Old Fashioned stands as a timeless classic that never disappoints. So, gather your ingredients, and let’s raise a glass to tradition, simplicity, and the fine art of cocktail making. Cheers!
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Old Fashioned Cocktail
Ingredients
- 1 sugar cube
- 3-5 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 ounces Bourbon or rye whiskey
- Garnish: Orange twist and cocktail cherry
Instructions
- Place the sugar cube in the bottom of a low-ball glass. Splash it with 3 dashes of bitters. Drop in a splash of water.
- Muddle the sugar with the bitters until it’s dissolved.
- Pour in the Bourbon or rye and a cube or two of ice. Stir for 10 seconds.
- Garnish and serve.
Notes
- You can replace the sugar cube with 1 teaspoon white sugar or ¼ ounce rich simple syrup.
Nutrition
Laura is the founder and editor of the travel blogs Savored Sips and Savored Journeys. She is dedicated to sharing the best information about drinks found around the world.