What is an Old Fashioned?

The old fashioned cocktail is a classic drink that has been around for over a century.

It is a simple yet sophisticated drink that consists of whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. The drink is typically served in an old fashioned glass with a large ice cube and garnished with a slice of orange and a cherry.

The origins of the old fashioned cocktail are somewhat unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the late 19th century. The drink was originally called a whiskey cocktail, but over time it became known as the old fashioned cocktail.

The recipe for the drink has remained relatively unchanged over the years, with variations only in the type of whiskey used and the garnishes added.

Despite its simplicity, the old fashioned cocktail has remained a popular drink among whiskey enthusiasts and cocktail lovers alike.

Its timeless appeal and classic taste have made it a staple at bars and restaurants around the world. Whether sipping on one at a fancy cocktail bar or making one at home, the old fashioned cocktail is a drink that will never go out of style.

Origins and History

The Old Fashioned cocktail has a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. While the exact origin of the drink is unclear, it is believed to have originated in the United States.

One popular theory suggests that the Old Fashioned was first created at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky. According to legend, a bartender at the club created the drink in honor of Colonel James E. Pepper, a prominent bourbon distiller. Another theory suggests that the Old Fashioned was first invented in Hudson, New York.

Regardless of its origin, the Old Fashioned gained popularity in the late 1800s and early 1900s. The cocktail was one of the staples of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel bar, where it was served to guests in its original form.

The Old Fashioned was also popularized by Jerry Thomas, a famous bartender who is often credited with creating the modern cocktail. Thomas included a recipe for the Old Fashioned in his 1862 book, “The Bartender’s Guide.” The recipe called for a “whiskey cocktail” made with sugar, water, bitters, and ice.

Over time, the Old Fashioned evolved to include different types of spirits, including brandy and gin. However, the classic recipe for an Old Fashioned remains the same: a mixture of sugar, bitters, water, and whiskey, garnished with a twist of citrus and a cherry.

Today, the Old Fashioned remains a popular cocktail that is enjoyed by people all over the world. Its rich history and classic taste continue to make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers alike.

What is an Old Fashioned?

The Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century.

It is a simple yet sophisticated drink that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying the fire on a cold winter night. The cocktail is typically made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water, and is traditionally served in an old fashioned glass.

The origins of the Old Fashioned are somewhat disputed, but it is widely believed to be one of the oldest cocktails in existence. It is said to have originated in the late 1800s when bartenders began experimenting with adding sugar and bitters to their whiskey to make it more palatable. Over time, the recipe evolved to include water and a garnish of orange peel, cherry, and sometimes a splash of soda water.

The Old Fashioned is a simple cocktail, but there are many variations on the basic recipe. Some people prefer to use different types of whiskey, such as rye or scotch, while others like to add a splash of soda water to make the drink a bit lighter. There are also many different types of bitters that can be used in the recipe, each adding its own unique flavor profile.

Despite its simplicity, the Old Fashioned is a beloved cocktail that has stood the test of time. Its timeless appeal and classic flavor make it a favorite of whiskey lovers around the world.

Recipe and Preparation

To make an Old Fashioned, one needs whiskey, water or ice, bitters, some sort of citrus (usually an orange), and a sweetener (sugar cubes or simple syrup)

The classic way to make an Old Fashioned starts with placing a sugar cube at the bottom of a glass, adding a few dashes of bitters and a splash of water, and muddling until it’s completely dissolved. This is still a great option, but many people use simple syrup for ease and convenience.

Next, add the whiskey and ice. Stir well until the drink is properly chilled and the ingredients are balanced. Garnish with an orange slice and enjoy.

To muddle the sugar cube and bitters, one can use a bar spoon and a muddler. Some people prefer to use simple syrup instead of sugar cubes, which can be added directly to the glass with the bitters.

Variations of the Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned cocktail is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It is a simple cocktail that consists of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water. However, over the years, bartenders have come up with many variations of the classic cocktail.

One popular variation of the Old Fashioned is the Manhattan. This variation uses whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It is typically garnished with a cherry. Another variation is the Wisconsin Old Fashioned, which uses brandy instead of whiskey and is often garnished with a brandied cherry and an orange slice.

Some variations of the Old Fashioned include fruit, such as muddled orange or lemon. The addition of fruit adds a new dimension of flavor to the classic cocktail. Another variation is the Brandy Old Fashioned, which uses brandy instead of whiskey and is typically made with a sweetener, such as gum syrup or curaçao.

The Old Fashioned recipe can be altered to fit different tastes. Some people prefer a sweeter Old Fashioned, while others prefer a drier one. The classic cocktail can also be made with different types of whiskey, such as bourbon or rye.

Liqueurs can also be added to the Old Fashioned to create new flavors. For example, maraschino liqueur can be added to create a cherry-flavored Old Fashioned. Club soda or lemon-lime soda can also be added to the classic cocktail to create a lighter, more refreshing drink.