How to Make an Old Fashioned: Step-by-Step Guide, Variations and Recipes

Introduction

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around for more than 150 years. This timeless beverage has stood the test of time and continues to be a favorite among many. It is a simple drink made up of whiskey, sugar and bitters, and it can be served either neat or on the rocks.

In this article, we will explore the process of making an Old Fashioned, compare and contrast different types of Old Fashioneds, interview a professional bartender to learn their tips and tricks for making an Old Fashioned, share recipes for creative variations on the classic Old Fashioned, showcase popular bars that serve delicious Old Fashioneds, and demonstrate how to make an Old Fashioned using video tutorials.

Explain the Process of Making an Old Fashioned Cocktail Step-by-Step

Making an Old Fashioned is a relatively simple process that requires only a few ingredients. The following steps will walk you through the process of making an Old Fashioned.

Gather Materials

To make an Old Fashioned, you will need the following items: whiskey (either bourbon or rye), Angostura bitters, simple syrup, orange peel, cherry, ice, and a rocks glass.

Measure and Pour Ingredients

Once you have gathered all of the necessary materials, you can begin to measure out and pour the ingredients. Start by adding 2 ounces of your desired whiskey to the glass. Then add 1 teaspoon of simple syrup and 3 dashes of bitters. Stir these ingredients together with a bar spoon until they are fully incorporated.

Stir and Garnish

Next, add a large cube of ice to the glass. Using the bar spoon, gently stir the mixture for 10-15 seconds to ensure that all of the ingredients are mixed together properly. Finally, garnish with a few drops of orange peel, a cherry, and a slice of orange. Your Old Fashioned is now ready to enjoy!

Compare and Contrast Different Types of Old Fashioneds

There are many different types of Old Fashioneds, each with its own unique flavor profile. Here are a few of the most popular types of Old Fashioneds:

Traditional Old Fashioned

The traditional Old Fashioned is the classic recipe that has been around for more than 150 years. It is made with bourbon or rye whiskey, Angostura bitters, simple syrup, and an orange peel garnish.

Rye Whiskey Old Fashioned

This variation on the traditional Old Fashioned is made with rye whiskey instead of bourbon. The flavor profile is slightly spicier and more complex due to the use of rye whiskey.

Bourbon Old Fashioned

The Bourbon Old Fashioned is similar to the traditional Old Fashioned, but it is made with bourbon instead of rye whiskey. The flavor profile is slightly sweeter and smoother due to the use of bourbon.

Japanese Old Fashioned

The Japanese Old Fashioned is a unique take on the classic recipe. It is made with Japanese whisky, yuzu juice, and Angostura bitters. This variation has a bright, citrusy flavor that is balanced out by the bitterness of the Angostura bitters.

Other Variations

In addition to these variations, there are countless other ways to make an Old Fashioned. Some examples include the Apple-Cinnamon Old Fashioned, Coffee Old Fashioned, Peach Old Fashioned, and Orange Old Fashioned.

Interview a Professional Bartender to Learn Their Tips and Tricks for Making an Old Fashioned

One of the best ways to learn how to make an Old Fashioned is to talk to a professional bartender. They have years of experience crafting cocktails and can provide valuable insight into the process. To get started, here are some questions you can ask:

Ask Questions

• What is the most important thing to keep in mind when making an Old Fashioned?
• What makes a good Old Fashioned?
• Do you have any tips or tricks for making an Old Fashioned?
• What are some creative variations on the classic Old Fashioned?

Record Answers

As you ask the bartender questions, be sure to jot down their answers. This way, you can refer back to them later if you ever forget something. Additionally, recording the answers will help you remember the tips and tricks that the bartender shared with you.

Share Recipes for Creative Variations on the Classic Old Fashioned

Once you have mastered the basics of making an Old Fashioned, you can start experimenting with different variations. Here are some recipes for creative Old Fashioneds that you can try:

Apple-Cinnamon Old Fashioned

Ingredients: 2 ounces bourbon, ½ ounce apple cider, 2 dashes cinnamon bitters, 1 teaspoon brown sugar, orange peel and a cinnamon stick for garnish. Directions: Add the bourbon, apple cider, cinnamon bitters and brown sugar to a glass with ice. Stir until combined. Garnish with an orange peel and a cinnamon stick.

Coffee Old Fashioned

Ingredients: 2 ounces bourbon, ¼ ounce cold brew concentrate, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, 1 teaspoon simple syrup, orange peel, and a coffee bean for garnish. Directions: Add the bourbon, cold brew concentrate, Angostura bitters and simple syrup to a glass with ice. Stir until combined. Garnish with an orange peel and a coffee bean.

Peach Old Fashioned

Ingredients: 2 ounces bourbon, ¼ ounce peach liqueur, 2 dashes peach bitters, 1 teaspoon simple syrup, orange peel, and a peach wedge for garnish. Directions: Add the bourbon, peach liqueur, peach bitters and simple syrup to a glass with ice. Stir until combined. Garnish with an orange peel and a peach wedge.

Orange Old Fashioned

Ingredients: 2 ounces bourbon, ¼ ounce orange liqueur, 2 dashes orange bitters, 1 teaspoon simple syrup, an orange peel, and a maraschino cherry for garnish. Directions: Add the bourbon, orange liqueur, orange bitters and simple syrup to a glass with ice. Stir until combined. Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry.

Showcase Popular Bars that Serve Delicious Old Fashioneds

If you are looking for a great place to enjoy an Old Fashioned, there are plenty of bars around the world that specialize in crafting delicious cocktails. Here are some of the most popular bars that serve delicious Old Fashioneds:

Location

• Death & Co. in New York City, USA
• The Hawthorn Bar in Sydney, Australia
• Luxardo Bar in London, UK
• The Broken Shaker in Miami, USA

Atmosphere

Each of these bars has its own unique atmosphere. Death & Co. is a modern speakeasy with craft cocktails and small plates. The Hawthorn Bar is a cozy neighborhood spot with a laid-back vibe. Luxardo Bar is a luxurious lounge with a sophisticated atmosphere. The Broken Shaker is a tropical oasis with handcrafted cocktails and a relaxed atmosphere.

Signature Drinks

All of these bars have signature drinks that are worth trying. Death & Co.’s signature drink is the “Boulevardier,” which is a variation on the classic Negroni. The Hawthorn Bar’s signature drink is the “Mai Tai,” which is a tropical twist on the classic Mai Tai. Luxardo Bar’s signature drink is the “Luxardo Sour,” which is a refreshing mix of vodka, Luxardo Maraschino liqueur, fresh lemon juice, and simple syrup. The Broken Shaker’s signature drink is the “Shaking Mule,” which is a twist on the classic Moscow Mule.

Demonstrate How to Make an Old Fashioned Using Video Tutorials

Another great way to learn how to make an Old Fashioned is to watch video tutorials. There are plenty of videos online that demonstrate the process step-by-step. Here are a few tips for finding the right video tutorial:

Find an Appropriate Video

When searching for a video tutorial, make sure to look for one that is appropriate for your skill level. If you are a beginner, look for a tutorial that is geared towards beginners. If you are more experienced, look for a tutorial that is geared towards intermediate or advanced bartenders.

View and Learn

Once you have found a suitable video tutorial, take the time to watch it and take notes. Pay close attention to the techniques and tips that the bartender is demonstrating. This will help you become a better bartender and master the art of making an Old Fashioned.

Conclusion

Making an Old Fashioned is a relatively simple process that requires only a few ingredients. In this article, we explored the process of making an Old Fashioned, compared and contrasted different types of Old Fashioneds, interviewed a professional bartender to learn their tips and tricks for making an Old Fashioned, shared recipes for creative variations on the classic Old Fashioned, showcased popular bars that serve delicious Old Fashioneds, and demonstrated how to make an Old Fashioned using video tutorials.

Whether you are a beginner or an experienced bartender, mastering the art of making an Old Fashioned will open up a world of possibilities for crafting delicious cocktails. With the information provided in this article, you now have the knowledge and skills necessary to make an Old Fashioned that is sure to impress.

Final Thoughts

The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic that can be enjoyed by everyone. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced bartender, mastering the art of making an Old Fashioned will open up a world of possibilities for crafting delicious cocktails. With the information provided in this article, you now have the knowledge and skills necessary to make an Old Fashioned that is sure to impress.