Old Fashioned

Instructions

1. Place the sugar cube in the lowball glass.

2. Add the Angostura bitters onto the sugar cube.

3. Add a dash of soda water (or plain water).

4. Muddle gently until the sugar is dissolved into a paste. Avoid crushing the sugar too aggressively.

5. Add the bourbon or rye whiskey to the glass.

6. Add one large ice cube or several smaller cubes.

7. Stir gently for about 20-30 seconds to chill the drink and incorporate the ingredients. Avoid over-dilution.

8. Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink by twisting it, then rub the rim of the glass with the peel.

9. Drop the orange peel into the drink as garnish, along with the maraschino cherry (optional).

Trivia

• What is an Old Fashioned cocktail?

  The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. It's a simple yet sophisticated drink traditionally made by muddling sugar with bitters and water, adding whiskey (typically bourbon or rye), and garnishing with an orange peel and sometimes a cocktail cherry. Its beauty lies in its simplicity and balance.

• What does an Old Fashioned taste like?

  An Old Fashioned offers a complex flavour profile that is spirit-forward. You'll taste the distinct notes of the chosen whiskey (caramel, vanilla, oak from bourbon; spicier notes from rye), balanced by a subtle sweetness from the sugar and aromatic complexity from the bitters. The orange peel garnish adds a bright citrus aroma that enhances the overall experience. It's generally considered bold and smooth.

• What's the best whiskey for an Old Fashioned?

  Both bourbon and rye whiskey are traditional choices and work excellently in an Old Fashioned. Bourbon yields a sweeter, smoother drink with notes of vanilla and caramel. Rye whiskey provides a spicier, drier character. The 'best' choice depends on personal preference. A good quality, mid-range bourbon or rye with around 90-100 proof (45-50% ABV) often works best, as it stands up well to the sugar and bitters without getting lost.

• How do you garnish an Old Fashioned?

  The classic garnish for an Old Fashioned is a swath of orange peel. It's crucial to express the oils from the peel over the drink before adding it; this releases aromatic compounds that significantly enhance the cocktail's nose and flavour. Twist the peel over the glass, rub it gently around the rim, and then drop it in. A high-quality cocktail cherry, like a Luxardo Maraschino, is also a common and acceptable garnish, adding a touch of fruitiness.

• Can I use simple syrup instead of a sugar cube?

  Yes, using simple syrup (a 1:1 or 2:1 mixture of sugar and water, heated until dissolved) is a common and convenient alternative to muddling a sugar cube. Use about 1-2 teaspoons (5-10 ml) of simple syrup in place of the sugar cube and water/soda. This method ensures the sugar is fully dissolved and integrates smoothly into the drink.

• Why is it called an 'Old Fashioned'?

  The name 'Old Fashioned' emerged in the late 19th century. As cocktail recipes evolved and became more complex with new liqueurs and ingredients, patrons began asking bartenders for a cocktail made the 'old-fashioned way' – simply spirit, sugar, water, and bitters. The name stuck, referring to this fundamental and timeless preparation.