Looking for a new cocktail to try out this weekend? Want to wind down with a fresh new drink? We’ve got you covered. Here’s what you should drink this weekend.
We aren’t exactly breaking into new ground with this selection but we’d recommend making yourself an Old Fashioned this weekend. With the imminent change of seasons and gradually cooler temperatures, we think it’s a great time to enjoy an Old Fashioned. Granted there isn’t really a bad time to drink one. The Old Fashioned is a classic for a reason. It’s an extremely simple drink to make and deliciously balanced in flavor. Plus, as we’ve elaborated on elsewhere, there are dozens of ways to riff and remix this beloved beverage.
But let’s get into the history of this classic concoction. The Old Fashioned is believed to be one of the oldest cocktails in the western world, having originally been invented by Master Distiller James E. Pepper. “Invent” is maybe a strong word as the recipe really just mirrors the original 1806 definition of a cocktail: “spirits, sugar, water, and bitters.”
Regardless, it has arguably been one of the most consistent cocktails in history appearing on bar menus throughout the world. But, you don’t need to head to your local cocktail bar to enjoy a great Old Fashioned. We’re here to help you make one at home.
Old Fashioned Ingredients
Whiskey – Ultimately, your Old Fashioned is only as good as your whiskey. So, we’d recommend choosing one you enjoy and one that you won’t mind diluting in a cocktail. Personally, I enjoy using Rye Whiskey in my Old Fashioneds so Rittenhouse Rye and WhistlePig Rye 10 Year are excellent choices. Additionally our beloved Four Roses Single Barrel, Nikka Coffey Grain Whisky, and Buffalo Trace all would make solid options.
Bitters – Angostura is the go-to bitters option for an Old Fashioned. And for good reason. It’s a classic bitters that adds a balancing component to this drink. Alternatively, this is a good area to remix your Old Fashioned and use something different. Fee Brothers Old Fashion and Peychaud’s are good options, too.
Simple Syrup – If you opt to use simple syrup in your Old Fashioned, we recommend making your own at home. Equal parts sugar and water and boom you’ve got a great simple syrup. A quick trip alternative is using a sugar cube in your glass and muddling it with the bitters. The downside is you might end up with sugar clumps in your finished cocktail but it is an admittedly easier method of making an Old Fashioned.
Old Fashioned Recipe
- Combine 2 ounces of Whiskey, 2 dashes of bitters, and half an ounce of simple syrup in a mixing glass over ice.
- Stir until chilled, about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a rocks glass over ice.
- Garnish with a luxardo cherry, orange peel, or both.
- Enjoy!
