The History of the Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned cocktail is one of the first mixed drinks ever created, and it’s been around since the early 1800s. It was formally termed the “whiskey cocktail” due to its basic ingredient list: whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. As time went on, the drink became known as the Old Fashioned, which describes some of the first cocktails to get a mix.
Ingredients of an Old Fashioned Mix
Each ingredient of an Old Fashioned brings something beneficial to the table, but in order to achieve that perfect flavorful blend, there are a few essential components.
Whiskey
The Old Fashioned is built upon whiskey. Rye and bourbon are the most common types. Each has its own taste characteristic: while bourbon is smoother and mildly sweet, rye whiskey is spicier.
Sugar
An Old Fashioned traditionally uses a sugar cube, although some people like to use simple syrup. It’s easier to mix. The sugar offsets the bitter taste while enhancing the flavor of the whiskey.
Bitters
Angostura bitters are the most preferred option. They bring balance to the drink, blending with the sweetness and whiskey’s strength.
Water
A dash of water assists in sugar dissolution and brings everything together. It also smoothens the whiskey by a small degree.
Ice
An ideal size of ice for keeping drinks cold is a large ice cube. It melts slowly, thus not excessively diluting the drink.
Garnishes
A cherry or an orange peel is often used as a garnish for the drink. These components bring an element of zest and sweetness.
How to Make the Perfect Old Fashioned Mix
Creating an Old Fashioned mix at home is simple. Follow these steps for a classic, well-balanced cocktail.
Step 1: Prepare the Glass
Use a short, sturdy glass, such as a rocks glass or an Old Fashioned glass. This allows for easy stirring and enhances the drinking experience.
Step 2: Muddle the Sugar and Bitters
Place a sugar cube in the glass and add a few dashes of bitters. Add a splash of water and muddle the ingredients together until the sugar dissolves.
Step 3: Add Whiskey
Pour 2 ounces of your preferred whiskey over the mixture.
Step 4: Stir and Add Ice
Add a large ice cube and stir gently. This step ensures the flavors blend smoothly without diluting the drink too much.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Express an orange peel over the glass by twisting it to release the oils. Drop it into the drink and add a cherry if desired.
Variations of the Old Fashioned Mix
Through the years, some bartenders have taken the liberty to play around with the Old Fashioned mix. Here are some of the more well-recognized variations:
Brandy Old Fashioned
This replaces whiskey with brandy, which has a smoother, fruitier taste. This is especially famous in Wisconsin.
Rum Old Fashioned
Opting for aged rum rather than whiskey adds a tropical note to the drink. This version is a bit sweeter, with rich, caramel undertones.
Tequila Old Fashioned
While the classic formulation of this drink is interesting, this version incorporates aged tequila which radically changes its profile. The agave undertones give the drink a distinct complexity.
Maple Old Fashioned
The substitution of sugar with maple syrup ensures the addition of mellow, sweet flavor. This variant is good with bourbon.
Smoked Old Fashioned
Smoked old fashioned mix are even more complicated. The drink takes on a fragrant smokiness due to the smoke infusion added to it.
Tips for the Best Old Fashioned Mix
To make the best Old Fashioned, follow these expert tips:
- Use high-quality whiskey. The better the whiskey, the better the cocktail.
- Don’t over-muddle. Muddling too much can bring out bitter flavors.
- Use a large ice cube. This prevents the drink from becoming too diluted.
- Express the orange peel properly. This step enhances the drink’s aroma.
- Experiment with bitters. Try different bitters like chocolate, cherry, or walnut for a unique twist.
Why the Old-Fashioned Mix Remains Popular
For various reasons, the Old Fashioned mix is a popular drink. The drink is remarkably easy to prepare, never goes out of fashion, and can be modified any way you like. It works perfectly at a bar or even at home, featuring a pleasant mix of sweet, bitter, and heated flavors.
Final Words
The Old Fashioned cocktail stands as a classic drink in the world of cocktails. The rich history, simple ingredients, and variety in preparation keep it appealing to whiskey lovers globally. The old fashioned mix never goes out of style, whether one sticks to the original recipe and its timeless taste or mixes it up with newer ingredients.
