HAVE YOU EVER ACTUALLY TRIED THE COCKTAIL THEY ALWAYS ORDER IN MOVIES? HERE’S HOW YOU MAKE THE PERFECT OLD FASHIONED

The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic cocktails in history. Featured in classic films, TV shows, and high-end bars around the world, this drink is the ultimate showcase of bourbon or whiskey, allowing its deep, rich flavors to shine with just a few simple ingredients.

Originally created in the early 19th century, the Old Fashioned is all about simplicity and balance—combining sugar, bitters, bourbon, and a twist of orange peel to create a smooth and sophisticated drink. Unlike many modern cocktails, which are loaded with syrups and mixers, this classic stays true to its roots by highlighting the depth and warmth of the spirit itself.

Whether you’re an experienced whiskey drinker or new to cocktails, mastering the Old Fashioned will elevate your appreciation for classic mixology and show you why this drink has stood the test of time.

Preparation Tips

Choose a Good Bourbon or Rye

Since the Old Fashioned is a spirit-forward cocktail, the bourbon (or rye whiskey) you choose plays a huge role in the final flavor. Aged bourbons with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak work best, while rye whiskey offers a spicier kick if you prefer a bolder taste.

Dissolve the Sugar Properly

One of the biggest mistakes when making an Old Fashioned is not dissolving the sugar fully. The sugar cube should be soaked in Angostura bitters, muddled with a bit of sparkling water, and stirred thoroughly to ensure there are no sugar grains left. This helps create a smooth drink without any gritty texture.

The Stirring Technique

Instead of shaking, the Old Fashioned is stirred to maintain its clarity and smooth texture. Start with a few ice cubes and half of your bourbon, stirring for at least a minute before adding more ice and the rest of the bourbon. This ensures proper dilution while keeping the drink perfectly chilled.

Use a Large Ice Cube

A single large ice cube (or an ice sphere) is ideal for serving an Old Fashioned because it melts slower than regular ice cubes, preventing the drink from becoming too diluted too quickly.

The Orange Peel Garnish

The orange peel isn’t just for decoration—it enhances the drink’s aroma and adds a slight citrusy bitterness. Run the outside of the peel along the rim of the glass, twist it to release its natural oils, and drop it into the drink. For a smoky twist, briefly burn the peel with a lighter before adding it.

Serving Suggestions

The Old Fashioned is best enjoyed slowly, allowing the ice to gradually dilute the bourbon, bringing out its complex flavors.

For a perfect pairing, serve this cocktail with:

• Dark chocolate or caramel desserts, which complement the vanilla and oak notes of the bourbon.
• Aged cheeses like Gouda or Parmesan for a savory contrast.
• Smoky BBQ or grilled meats, as the bourbon’s depth enhances rich flavors.

If you want to experiment, try swapping bourbon for rye whiskey for a spicier version, or use maple syrup instead of sugar for a subtle twist.

Common Questions About the Old Fashioned

What is the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned? Can you make an Old Fashioned without bitters? How do you make a sweeter Old Fashioned?

What is the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned?Look for a high-quality, well-aged bourbon with caramel, vanilla, and oak notes. Popular choices include Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, Bulleit Bourbon, or Maker’s Mark. If you prefer a spicier version, opt for rye whiskey instead.

Can you make an Old Fashioned without bitters?Bitters are essential to balancing the sweetness and enhancing the depth of the drink. However, if you don’t have bitters, you can try adding a few dashes of orange zest or a small splash of herbal liqueur to add complexity.

How do you make a sweeter Old Fashioned?If you like a smoother, slightly sweeter cocktail, increase the sugar slightly or use a rich simple syrup instead of a sugar cube. You can also try honey or maple syrup for a more natural sweetness.

2025-03-13T20:12:17Z