How to Make an Old-Fashioned Drink: A Complete Guide

Introduction

The old-fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around since the 19th century. It is made with a base spirit, bitters, sugar, and water and is considered the quintessential “man’s drink.” While the recipe may vary slightly depending on the type of spirit used and the expert making it, the end result is always a flavorful and refreshing beverage. In this article, we will explore the history of the old-fashioned, discuss how to make one, and provide tips from a professional mixologist.

History of the Old-Fashioned

The origins of the old-fashioned are disputed, but it is generally accepted that it was first created in the late 1800s. According to the book Imbibe! by David Wondrich, the drink was likely named after the popular “old-fashioned glass” which was used to serve drinks in the 19th century. The original recipe called for whiskey, bitters, sugar, and water, however over time other ingredients have become popular, such as brandy, rum, or even gin.

Today, the old-fashioned is one of the most popular cocktails in the world. According to a survey conducted by the International Bartenders Association, the old-fashioned was voted the third most popular cocktail in the world, behind the martini and the margarita. It is also one of the most ordered drinks in bars across the United States.

Interview with a Mixologist

To get a better understanding of how to make an old-fashioned, we spoke to professional mixologist Ryan Sable. He shared his favorite recipe for the drink and offered some helpful tips for those looking to make their own.

“My favorite recipe for an old-fashioned is two ounces of bourbon, half an ounce of simple syrup, two dashes of Angostura bitters, and an orange peel for garnish,” said Sable. “The key to making a good old-fashioned is to take your time. You don’t want to rush the process because then the flavors won’t be as pronounced.”

Comparing Different Types of Old-Fashioneds

While whiskey is often the spirit of choice when making an old-fashioned, there are many variations. Rum and brandy are both popular alternatives, as well as other types of spirits like gin and tequila. Each variation offers its own unique flavor profile, so experiment to see which you prefer.

For example, an old-fashioned made with whiskey will have a more robust flavor due to the higher alcohol content. On the other hand, an old-fashioned made with rum will be sweeter and less intense. Ultimately, it all comes down to personal preference.

Step-by-Step Guide

Making an old-fashioned is fairly simple, but there are a few steps to follow in order to make sure it turns out perfectly. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you create the perfect drink:

Gather Necessary Ingredients: You will need two ounces of your preferred spirit, half an ounce of simple syrup, two dashes of Angostura bitters, and an orange peel for garnish.

Create the Perfect Mixture: Add the spirit, simple syrup, and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir for about 30 seconds, then strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with fresh ice cubes.

Photos of Process: Take photos of each step along the way so you can refer back to them if needed. This will help ensure that your old-fashioned turns out just right.

Unique Garnishes

Once your old-fashioned is complete, you can add a unique garnish to give it a little extra flair. Ideas for garnishes include a twist of citrus peel, a maraschino cherry, a cinnamon stick, or even a sprig of mint. We asked our mixologist friend, Ryan Sable, what he thought was the perfect garnish for an old-fashioned.

“I think a twist of citrus peel is the best garnish for an old-fashioned,” said Sable. “It adds a nice brightness to the drink and complements the other flavors nicely.”

Conclusion

The old-fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can make your own version of this timeless drink. Whether you use whiskey, rum, or any other type of spirit, the end result will be a delicious and refreshing beverage. For more information on old-fashioneds, check out Imbibe! by David Wondrich or consult a local mixologist.