The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. It is a simple yet elegant drink that only requires a few ingredients, and if done correctly, will give you a delicious and balanced cocktail. If you’re looking to learn how to make an Old Fashioned, then you’ve come to the right place! In this blog post, we’ll walk you through the steps of crafting the perfect Old Fashioned.
The history of the old fashioned
The old-fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around for centuries. The earliest mention of the drink comes from a Louisville, Kentucky newspaper in 1881, when it was referred to as an “Old-Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail”. In its simplest form, the old-fashioned is made with whiskey (or brandy), sugar, bitters, and orange zest.
Over time, variations of this classic recipe have appeared, including using different spirits such as gin and rye whiskey, adding muddled fruit and herbs, and using different sweeteners. Despite these variations, the classic recipe remains one of the most popular cocktails today. If you’re looking to learn how to make an old-fashioned, read on for the classic recipe and some tips for making the perfect drink.
The classic recipe
When it comes to how to make an old-fashioned, the classic recipe is simple yet delicious. To make a classic old-fashioned, you will need:
• 2 ounces of whiskey (bourbon or rye)
• 1 teaspoon of superfine sugar
• 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
• A large orange peel
• An orange slice
In an old-fashioned glass, add the whiskey, sugar, and bitters. Stir until the sugar has dissolved. Take the orange peel and express its oils by rubbing it around the rim of the glass. Then add the orange peel to the drink. Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir until chilled. Add a few drops of water to your drink if desired, then garnish with an orange slice. Enjoy!
Variations on the classic recipe
If you’re looking to mix things up and add a personal touch to your old-fashioned, you’re in luck. There are plenty of ways to customize the classic old-fashioned recipe, allowing you to make your own unique concoction. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Substitute whiskey for bourbon – try using rye whiskey, Scotch whiskey, or even Irish whiskey to give the drink a different flavor.
2. Add a splash of liqueur – try adding a teaspoon of sweet vermouth, Cointreau, or Grand Marnier for a fruity, flavorful twist.
3. Use flavored simple syrup – add some complexity to your cocktail by making simple syrup with herbs like rosemary or thyme, or fruits like peaches or raspberries.
4. Garnish with citrus – for an extra zing, try adding a twist of lemon or lime peel to the glass.
5. Use bitters of your choice – from aromatic bitters to orange bitters, this is a great way to add depth and complexity to the drink.
No matter how you choose to customize your old-fashioned, there’s no wrong way to make one. Get creative, have fun, and enjoy your custom creation!
Tips for making the perfect old fashioned
Making an old-fashioned can be intimidating, but with a few tips, you can make the perfect drink every time. Here’s how to make an old-fashioned that you’ll love:
1. Start with high-quality whiskey. An old-fashioned is a spirit-forward cocktail, so using the best whiskey you can find is key to a great-tasting drink.
2. Choose your sugar wisely. While many recipes call for simple syrup, you can also use sugar cubes or granulated sugar. Choose whichever one you prefer and dissolve it in a small amount of water before adding it to the glass.
3. Add bitters to taste. Bitters are a key component of an old-fashioned, but how much you add is up to you. A few dashes should do the trick!
4. Don’t forget the ice! For a truly great old-fashioned, you must use ice cubes. Make sure they’re well-chilled before adding them to the glass.
5. Garnish with an orange peel. Finish off your old-fashioned with a long, thin slice of orange peel that you can use to stir the drink as well.
With these tips in mind, you’ll be able to make a delicious old-fashioned every time!