The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or just starting to explore the world of mixology, this guide on how to make a perfect Old Fashioned will walk you through every step of creating this iconic cocktail.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To craft the perfect Old Fashioned, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: 2 ounces
- Sugar Cube or Simple Syrup: 1
- Angostura Bitters: 3 dashes
- Orange Twist: for garnish
- Ice Cubes: as needed
Tools Required
Cocktail Mixing Set
- Mixing Glass
- Muddler
- Bar Spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Perfect Old Fashioned
Step 1: Prepare the Glass
Cocktail Mixing Glass
Start by placing the sugar cube or a teaspoon of simple syrup/sugar into the mixing glass.
Step 2: Add the Bitters
Douse the sugar cube with bitters, using one to three dashes depending on your taste preference. To help with the dilution, you can also add a splash of water too if desired.
Angostura Bitters — When it comes to crafting the perfect Old Fashioned, the name that resonates with bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike is Angostura. A legendary brand that’s become synonymous with quality and tradition, Angostura bitters are a quintessential ingredient in this timeless cocktail.
What sets Angostura apart is its unique blend of tropical herbs and spices, a secret recipe that has remained unchanged since 1824. These bitters provide a harmonious balance of sweet, sour, bitter, and spice, adding complexity and a rich layer of flavor to the Old Fashioned.
The Angostura brand’s commitment to excellence has cemented its place as the go-to choice for this classic drink. Renowned mixologists and casual home bartenders alike trust Angostura to deliver that authentic, traditional taste that makes an Old Fashioned truly memorable.
If you want to experience an Old Fashioned the way it was meant to be enjoyed, there’s simply no substitute for Angostura bitters. It’s not just an ingredient; it’s a part of cocktail history, and a signature element that defines what a classic Old Fashioned is all about.
Step 3: Muddle
Muddler for Cocktails
Use a muddler to break down the sugar cube and mix it with the bitters until well combined.
Step 4: Add Whiskey
Pour in the 2 ounces of your chosen bourbon or rye whiskey. In my case, I’m using Old Ezra 7 Year Barrel Strength, one of my favorite go-to bourbons for all occasions.
Old Ezra 7 Year Barrel Strength Review
Old Ezra 7 Barrel Strength is a whiskey that has thoroughly won me over. It’s full-bodied and rich, with a vibrant assortment of classic bourbon flavors that somehow manage to evoke memories of my favorite cookies.
Step 5: Stir
Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir well to chill and dilute the mixture. For a more concentrated flavor, you can consider stirring the ingredients without the ice.
Step 6: Strain into a Glass
Strain the mixture into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice. I personally love using my Norlan Rauk Tumbler glass for a low ball cocktail like an Old Fashioned. However, any whiskey tumbler with a wide base will do (Check on Amazon for options).
Rauk Heavy Tumbler
An uncompromising crystal tumbler developed for savoring whisky on the rocks. And for those who revel in the crafted cocktail, the tumbler features an array of extruded chevrons radiating from the center, which serve to provide friction points for gripping ingredients used in muddled drinks. — Official Website
Specifications
Weight: ~ 500 grams
Dimensions: 94 mm tall, 75 mm diameter at rim
Material: Non-leaded crystal
Capacity: 250 ml
Step 7: Garnish
Finish off with a twist of orange and a cocktail cherry if desired.
Step 8: Serve
Serve immediately and enjoy the complex flavors of a perfectly crafted Old Fashioned.
The Perfect Old Fashioned Variations
Experiment with different bourbons, bitters, or syrups to find the version of the Old Fashioned that suits your taste buds best.
Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 — offers a lively citrus twist to the classic Old Fashioned. Infused with orange zest and exotic spices, these bitters bring a refreshing and zesty dimension to the cocktail. For those looking to add a hint of brightness and complexity to their Old Fashioned, Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 is an innovative choice.
Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters — infuses a touch of cocoa richness into your Old Fashioned, bringing an exciting and unconventional flavor profile. Crafted with real cocoa and hints of spice, these bitters add depth and a savory chocolate note to your cocktail. Perfect for those looking to explore a nuanced, chocolatey twist to the classic Old Fashioned.
Woodford Reserve Aromatic Bitters — an essential ingredient for crafting the perfect Old Fashioned. Made with a blend of premium botanicals, spices, and herbs, these bitters enhance the whiskey’s warmth and add an elegant touch. It’s the go-to choice for enthusiasts aiming to achieve an authentic and sophisticated taste in their Old Fashioned creations.
Conclusion
The perfect Old Fashioned is an elegant and timeless cocktail that’s easy to make at home. Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a classic Old Fashioned in no time. Whether you prefer a traditional version or want to experiment with variations, the Old Fashioned provides a versatile and delightful experience for every palate.
FAQs about Making a Perfect Old Fashioned
Yes, the choice of whiskey is up to you. Bourbon and rye are the traditional options, but you can experiment with others.
You can use the back of a spoon to muddle the sugar and bitters.
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with lemon twists or different types of cherries.
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