How to Make an Old Fashioned Whiskey – A Step-by-Step Guide

Introduction

The Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been enjoyed for decades. It’s a simple drink that consists of just a few ingredients, but it packs a lot of flavor. Making an Old Fashioned Whiskey is easy, whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned mixologist. This article will explain the basics of making an Old Fashioned Whiskey and provide some tips on how to perfect your recipe.

Gather the Supplies and Ingredients Needed to Make an Old Fashioned Whiskey

Before you begin, you’ll need to gather the supplies and ingredients needed to make an Old Fashioned Whiskey. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

• Whiskey (preferably bourbon)
• Sugar (simple syrup or granulated sugar)
• Bitters
• Orange peel
• Ice cubes
• Cocktail shaker
• Stirrer
• Old-fashioned glass

Now that you have all the supplies and ingredients, you can begin making your Old Fashioned Whiskey.

Learn the History of Old Fashioned Whiskey

The Old Fashioned was first created in the early 1800s by a bartender at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky. The original recipe called for a mixture of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of lemon or orange peel. The drink quickly became popular and spread across the United States. Over the years, the recipe has evolved and now typically includes the addition of a muddled orange slice or maraschino cherry.

Understand the Different Types of Whiskeys Used in an Old Fashioned Cocktail

When making an Old Fashioned Whiskey, it’s important to choose the right type of whiskey. The most popular varieties are bourbon, rye, and Scotch. Bourbon is the most commonly used whiskey for Old Fashioneds, as it has a sweet and smoky flavor that pairs well with the other ingredients. Rye whiskey has a spicier flavor and is often used to add complexity to the drink. Scotch whisky is a more robust whiskey with a strong flavor, so it should be used sparingly.

When choosing a whiskey, it’s important to look for one that is high quality. Be sure to read the label and look for whiskeys that are made from natural ingredients and aged in oak barrels. Additionally, avoid any whiskeys that contain artificial flavors or colors. The better the whiskey, the better the Old Fashioned will taste.

Decide How Strong You Want Your Old Fashioned Whiskey to Be

When making an Old Fashioned Whiskey, it’s important to decide how strong you want your drink to be. The amount of alcohol in the drink will depend on the type of whiskey you use and the amount of sugar you add. Generally, the more whiskey you use, the stronger the drink will be. If you want a stronger drink, try using a higher proof whiskey, such as 100-proof bourbon. Conversely, if you want a lighter drink, you can use a lower proof whiskey, such as 80-proof bourbon.

It’s also important to consider the sweetness of the drink. If you like a sweeter drink, try using simple syrup or granulated sugar. If you prefer a less sweet drink, you can use a sugar substitute, such as stevia or agave nectar. Experiment with different combinations of whiskey and sugar until you find the perfect balance.

Mix the Ingredients for an Old Fashioned Whiskey

Once you’ve chosen the right whiskey and determined how strong you want your drink to be, it’s time to mix the ingredients. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make an Old Fashioned Whiskey:

• Fill a rocks glass with ice cubes.
• Add 2 ounces of whiskey to the glass.
• Add 1/4 ounce of simple syrup or 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar.
• Add 3 dashes of bitters.
• Squeeze an orange peel over the drink and drop it into the glass.
• Stir the drink until the sugar is dissolved.
• Add a muddled orange slice or maraschino cherry (optional).

When mixing the ingredients, it’s important to use a stirring rod or spoon to ensure that everything is evenly distributed. Additionally, be sure to use the freshest ingredients possible. Old, stale ingredients can ruin the taste of an Old Fashioned Whiskey.

Stir and Serve the Old Fashioned Whiskey

Once the ingredients are mixed, it’s time to stir and serve the Old Fashioned Whiskey. Before serving, prepare the glassware by adding a few ice cubes to the glass. Then, take the stirring rod or spoon and slowly stir the drink for about 30 seconds. This will help to ensure that the flavors are properly combined.

When the drink is ready, strain it into the prepared glass and garnish with an orange slice or maraschino cherry. Enjoy your Old Fashioned Whiskey!

Enjoy the Taste of a Traditional Old Fashioned Whiskey

An Old Fashioned Whiskey is the perfect way to enjoy a traditional whiskey cocktail. The drink is simple, yet flavorful and can be customized to your taste. To make the drink even more interesting, try adding other ingredients, such as maraschino liqueur or bitters. There are endless possibilities when it comes to customizing an Old Fashioned Whiskey.

When serving an Old Fashioned Whiskey, there are several things to keep in mind. First, always serve the drink chilled. Also, be sure to use fresh ingredients and good-quality whiskey. Finally, remember to use the proper glassware—an old-fashioned glass is ideal for this type of drink.

Conclusion

Making an Old Fashioned Whiskey is easy and can be done by anyone, regardless of their skill level. With the right supplies and ingredients, you can create a delicious, traditional whiskey cocktail that is sure to please.