Ingredients
Main Ingredients
The classic Old Fashioned recipe relies on a combination of high-quality ingredients to create its unique and complex flavor profile. The main ingredients that form the backbone of this cocktail are:
Bourbon or rye whiskey
These two types of whiskey are commonly used in Old Fashioneds, with bourbon providing a sweeter and smoother character while rye adds a spicy and dry flavor to the mix.
Sugar syrup (or simple syrup)
A sweetener made by dissolving sugar in water, the sugar syrup adds balance and depth to the whiskey’s flavors. You can adjust the amount of sugar to your taste, but traditionally, one sugar cube per cocktail is used.
Angostura bitters
A concentrated liquid flavoring derived from herbs and roots, Angostura bitters bring a distinctive aromatic and medicinal quality to the Old Fashioned. Two dashes of bitters are typically added, which can be adjusted depending on personal taste preferences.
Pickled cherry or orange peel (optional)
Some recipes call for garnishing with a pickled cherry or an orange peel, which adds a fruity and visually appealing touch to the cocktail. However, this ingredient is not essential and can be omitted if desired.
2 oz (60 ml) whiskey (bourbon or rye work well)
To craft a classic Old Fashioned cocktail, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients that will bring out the unique flavor profiles of this timeless drink.
Whiskey
The foundation of any great Old Fashioned is a good whiskey, and for this recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 oz (60 ml) whiskey: Choose either bourbon or rye – both work wonderfully. Bourbon imparts a rich, vanilla-like flavor, while rye adds a spicy kick.
You can opt for a variety of expressions within these two categories; some popular brands include:
- Bourbon: Maker’s Mark, Blanton’s, or W.L. Weller
- Rye: Sazerac Rye, Old Overholt, or WhistlePig
Cherry
The classic Old Fashioned garnish is a maraschino cherry. This sweet and tangy flavor complement the whiskey perfectly:
- Maraschino cherry: Luxardo or Heering are great options, but feel free to experiment with other brands.
Sugar
To balance out the bold flavors of your whiskey and bitters, you’ll need:
- 1 sugar cube: Granulated or Demerara work well; use about half a teaspoon.
Bitters
A good Old Fashioned requires bitters to add depth and complexity:
- 1/4 teaspoon Angostura bitters: This will be your primary bitters, but feel free to experiment with other brands or types (orange, peach, etc.).
Tonic and Orange Peel (optional)
To craft a classic Old Fashioned cocktail, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients that will bring out the unique flavor profiles of this timeless drink.
Whiskey
The foundation of any great Old Fashioned is a good whiskey, and for this recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 oz (60 ml) whiskey: Choose either bourbon or rye – both work wonderfully. Bourbon imparts a rich, vanilla-like flavor, while rye adds a spicy kick.
You can opt for a variety of expressions within these two categories; some popular brands include:
- Bourbon: Maker’s Mark, Blanton’s, or W.L. Weller
- Rye: Sazerac Rye, Old Overholt, or WhistlePig
Cherry
The classic Old Fashioned garnish is a maraschino cherry. This sweet and tangy flavor complement the whiskey perfectly:
- Maraschino cherry: Luxardo or Heering are great options, but feel free to experiment with other brands.
Sugar
To balance out the bold flavors of your whiskey and bitters, you’ll need:
- 1 sugar cube: Granulated or Demerara work well; use about half a teaspoon.
Bitters
A good Old Fashioned requires bitters to add depth and complexity:
- 1/4 teaspoon Angostura bitters: This will be your primary bitters, but feel free to experiment with other brands or types (orange, peach, etc.).
Tonic and Orange Peel (optional)
If you’re feeling adventurous and want to try something different:
- Tonic water: Mix a small amount with your Old Fashioned for a refreshing twist.
- Orange peel: Garnish your cocktail with an orange peel slice or wheel, if you prefer the citrusy flavor it adds.
Remember, the key to crafting a great Old Fashioned is experimenting with different ingredients and flavor combinations until you find the perfect blend that suits your taste buds!
1 sugar cube (about 1/2 teaspoon)
- A classic Old Fashioned cocktail is made with just a few simple ingredients, but the quality and proportion of these ingredients can make all the difference in the flavor of the final product.
- The primary ingredient that gives the Old Fashioned its distinctive flavor is whiskey. For this recipe, you’ll need:
- 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey (your choice)
- Bourbon is a classic choice for an Old Fashioned, but some people prefer the spicier, drier taste of rye whiskey.
The next ingredient in your Old Fashioned recipe is bitters. Bitters are a concentrated flavoring made from herbs, roots, and other botanicals that are designed to add depth and complexity to cocktails. For an Old Fashioned, you’ll typically want to use Angostura bitters (also known as “orange bitters”), which have a sweet, slightly spicy flavor.
1 dash of Angostura bitters
The third ingredient in your Old Fashioned recipe is sugar, which serves two purposes: it adds sweetness to balance out the bitter flavors, and it helps to muddle the bitters with the whiskey. For this recipe, you’ll need:
1 sugar cube (about 1/2 teaspoon)
This amount of sugar will dissolve easily in the liquid ingredients when you muddle them together.
The final ingredient in your Old Fashioned cocktail is a twist of citrus peel, which adds a touch of brightness and flavor to the drink. You can use any type of citrus peel you like – orange, lemon, or lime all work well – but be sure to use just the peel (without the white pith underneath) for best flavor.
Twist of citrus peel (optional)
In addition to these ingredients, some people also like to add a small amount of club soda or other carbonated water to their Old Fashioned to give it a bit more fizz. However, this is purely optional – the classic version of the cocktail doesn’t include any extra carbonation.
2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Angostura bitters are a crucial component in many classic cocktails, including the Old Fashioned.
- In this recipe, you’ll need 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to add depth and complexity to your drink.
What is Angostura Bitters?
Angostura bitters are a type of bitters that originated in the 19th century and were originally used as a medicine to treat stomach ailments.
The ingredients in Angostura bitters include:
- Angostura bark
- Wintergreen oil
- Sarsaparilla root
- Ginger root
- Orange oil
These ingredients are mixed with a neutral spirit, such as ethanol or glycerin, to create the bitters.
Why is Angostura Bitters Important in Classic Cocktails?
- Angostura bitters play a crucial role in many classic cocktails because they add depth and complexity to the drink.
- The bitterness of the bitters balances out the sweetness of other ingredients, such as sugar or fruit.
- Angostura bitters also enhance the flavors of other ingredients, making them more noticeable and balanced.
Tips for Using Angostura Bitters
When using Angostura bitters in your Old Fashioned recipe, make sure to:
- Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to the mix before adding any other ingredients.
- Use high-quality Angostura bitters for the best flavor.
Orange peel for garnish
The classic Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless and elegant drink that requires just a few key ingredients to create its signature flavor. One of these essential ingredients is orange peel, specifically used as garnish.
Orange peel adds a subtle yet aromatic dimension to the Old Fashioned, balancing out the bold flavors of the other ingredients like whiskey, sugar, bitters, and citrus.
Why Orange Peel?
- The oil in the orange peel complements the smoothness of the whiskey, adding a layer of depth to the drink.
- The aroma of the orange peel also helps to balance out the bold flavors of the bitters and sugar.
- Orange peel is a classic garnish for Old Fashioned cocktails, evoking memories of traditional mixology.
When choosing an orange peel for your Old Fashioned, look for one that is free of seeds and has a good balance of oil content. You can typically find orange peels at most grocery stores or specialty food shops.
To use the orange peel as garnish, simply place it on top of the cocktail or float it in the drink. This will allow the flavors and aromas of the orange to mingle with the other ingredients and enhance the overall experience of the Old Fashioned.
Tips for Using Orange Peel in Your Old Fashioned
- Choose a high-quality whiskey that complements the flavor of the orange peel. A smooth, complex whiskey like bourbon or rye works well.
- Use a simple syrup to balance out the flavors in the Old Fashioned, rather than granulated sugar.
- Add a few dashes of bitters to the drink to enhance the flavor and aroma of the orange peel.
By incorporating orange peel into your classic Old Fashioned recipe, you’ll be able to create a cocktail that is both familiar and unique, with a depth of flavor and aroma that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Premixing and Preparation
Preparing the Sugar Cube
- In order to create a perfectly balanced and complex Old Fashioned cocktail, it’s essential to follow proper premixing and preparation techniques, starting with preparing the sugar cube.
- The first step in preparing the sugar cube is to select a high-quality granulated sugar that will dissolve easily and provide the right amount of sweetness to the drink.
- Next, you’ll need a small dish or plate to hold the sugar cube.
- To prepare the sugar cube for muddling, you’ll need a muddler or a similar tool with a flat surface. This is typically made of metal or wood and is used to press down on the sugar cube and release its oils and flavor.
- The classic technique for preparing the sugar cube involves placing one cube (approximately 1-2 teaspoons) onto the plate, followed by three dashes of bitters.
- You can choose from a variety of bitters types such as Angostura or orange peel-infused bitters, depending on your personal preference and the desired flavor profile of the cocktail.
Here are some key things to keep in mind when preparing the sugar cube:
- Select high-quality granulated sugar: This will ensure that the sugar dissolves easily and provides the right amount of sweetness to the drink.
- Use the right amount of bitters: Too little bitters may result in a lack of depth or complexity in the cocktail, while too much can make it overpowering.
- Choose the right tool for muddling: A muddler or similar tool with a flat surface will help to release the oils and flavor from the sugar cube effectively.
With your sugar cube and bitters prepared, you’re now ready to move on to the next step in creating a classic Old Fashioned cocktail: the mixing of the ingredients.
Crush or chop the sugar cube to release its flavor and texture
In order to prepare a classic Old Fashioned cocktail, premixing and preparation are crucial steps that cannot be overlooked.
Starting with the sugar cube, it’s essential to crush or chop it to release its flavor and texture. This process allows the sugar to dissolve more evenly in the bitters and other ingredients, creating a balanced and harmonious taste experience.
To crush or chop the sugar cube, you can use a muddler or the back of a spoon. Gently press down on the sugar until it breaks apart into small granules. This will help to release the sugar’s natural oils and flavor compounds, which are essential for adding depth and complexity to the cocktail.
Once the sugar is crushed or chopped, you can proceed with mixing the bitters with a small amount of water in a separate container. The standard ratio for an Old Fashioned is two dashes of Angostura bitters per one jigger of whiskey. However, feel free to adjust this ratio according to your personal taste preferences.
Next, add a handful of ice to the mixing glass and swirl it around until the glass is frosty cold. This will help to chill and dilute the ingredients evenly. Be careful not to over-dilute the mixture, as this can lead to a watered-down flavor.
With your sugar, bitters, and ice prepared, you’re ready to start mixing the classic Old Fashioned recipe. Fill a mixing glass with the prepared ingredients, add two ounces of your preferred bourbon or rye whiskey, and gently stir for about 30 seconds to combine all the flavors.
To finish the cocktail, strain it into a rocks glass filled with ice and garnish with an orange peel, expressed over the drink. The citrus oils will complement the whiskey’s flavors while adding a touch of elegance to your Old Fashioned.
Mixing the Bitters and Whiskey
In creating a timeless and traditional Classic Old Fashioned cocktail, the art of premixing and preparation plays a crucial role in unlocking its distinct flavor profile.
Premixing the Bitters
To begin, it’s essential to prepare the Angostura bitters ahead of time by allowing them to come to room temperature. This helps the bitters’ delicate oils to release and distribute evenly.
Using a cocktail spoon or the end of a bar tool, gently press the bitters’ bottle to extract a few dashes onto the surface of the mixing glass or shaker.
Mixing the Bitters and Whiskey
With the Angostura bitters prepared and waiting, it’s time to combine them with two ounces of whiskey in the mixing glass or shaker. The preferred choice is bourbon for a genuine Classic Old Fashioned experience.
Some enthusiasts may argue that using rye or other types of whiskey can alter the drink’s character. However, traditionalists adhere to the classic recipe featuring bourbon as the main spirit.
Other Essential Components
Once the bitters and whiskey are combined, a sugar cube is typically added to the mixture. This serves not only as a sweetener but also as a flavor enhancer that balances out the drink’s bitterness.
The type of sugar used can vary; however, most bartenders agree that simple granulated sugar provides the best results. Some recipes may suggest using brown sugar or Demerara sugar, but traditionalists prefer the simplicity and purity of plain white sugar.
Mixing Techniques
- With a muddler or the back of a bar tool, gently press down on the sugar cube until it dissolves into the mixture. This process, known as “muddling,” releases the sugars’ natural oils and aromas.
- A few dashes of bitters are then added to the mixture, using either two or three dashes depending on personal taste preferences.
Final Touches
After muddling the sugar and adding the bitters, the Classic Old Fashioned is now ready for its final assembly. A strip of citrus peel, typically orange or lemon, can be used to garnish the drink.
This adds a touch of elegance and aroma to the finished cocktail, as well as providing a visual indicator of the drink’s presence on the serving surface.
Final Assembly
The completed Classic Old Fashioned is ready for consumption once assembled in its glass or shaker. A classic two-finger pour can be used to add more whiskey if desired.
This timeless recipe offers a depth of flavor and history, making it an enduring favorite among spirits enthusiasts around the world.
In a mixing glass, combine the crushed sugar and whiskey
Mixology involves precise measurements to achieve optimal flavor balance. When it comes to creating a Classic Old Fashioned, the premixing and preparation steps are crucial.
Start by combining one sugar cube (approximately 1/2 teaspoon) with two ounces of whiskey in a mixing glass. Traditionally, a sugar cube is used, but you may also use simple syrup or agave nectar if desired.
The key to premixing the Old Fashioned is to let the flavors meld together for about 30 seconds to a minute before adding any bitters or additional ingredients. This allows the whiskey and sugar to harmonize, creating a more complex and balanced flavor profile.
During this time, you can also chill the mixing glass by placing it on ice or in an ice bath. This helps to slow down the oxidation process and preserves the delicate flavors of the whiskey.
The ideal ratio for a Classic Old Fashioned is two parts whiskey to one part sugar. However, feel free to adjust this balance to suit your personal taste preferences. Some people prefer a more robust flavor, while others enjoy a milder taste.
When you’re ready to proceed, add one dash of Angostura bitters and stir gently for another 10-15 seconds. The bitters will help to enhance the herbal notes in the whiskey and add depth to the overall flavor profile.
Finally, strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice or a sugar-coated rim (optional). Garnish with a classic Old Fashioned cocktail cherry or an orange peel for added visual appeal.
The art of premixing and preparation is what sets a professional bartender apart from an amateur. By taking the time to carefully balance the flavors, you’ll be able to create a truly exceptional Classic Old Fashioned that will impress even the most discerning palates.
Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
Premixing involves combining some ingredients before mixing them with other liquid components, which can enhance the flavors and aromas of the final product. In the case of a classic Old Fashioned cocktail, this typically includes combining simple syrup (or sugar) with bitters in a small bowl or measuring cup.
First, two dashes of Angostura bitters should be added to the mixture, taking care not to overflow the container. This step is crucial as it helps to create a balanced and harmonious flavor profile for the Old Fashioned cocktail.
The next step involves adding a small amount of simple syrup to the mixture, usually around 1-2 dashes depending on personal taste preferences. The simple syrup should be stirred gently into the bitters until fully incorporated, creating a smooth and well-balanced mixture.
This premixed blend is then ready to be added to the main ingredients of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. Typically, this involves combining 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey with the premixed bitters-sugar mixture in a mixing glass filled with ice.
The resulting combination should be stirred thoroughly for around 30-45 seconds to chill and dilute the ingredients properly, before being strained into a rocks glass containing one large ice cube. The classic Old Fashioned cocktail is then garnished with a twist of citrus peel, usually an orange or lemon twist.
Cocktail Assembly
Chilling and Straining
- To assemble, chill and strain a classic Old Fashioned cocktail requires precision and attention to detail.
- The first step is to chill a mixing glass in the freezer for at least 30 minutes prior to use. This ensures that your ingredients are served at optimal temperature.
- Next, place a large ice cube into the chilled mixing glass, leaving about an inch of space at the top. The size and shape of the ice will help to prevent the drink from becoming watered down too quickly.
- Mix bourbon or rye whiskey, typically 2-3 ounces, with a few dashes of Angostura bitters in a separate container. Stir until the ingredients are fully incorporated and the flavors are balanced.
- Now it’s time to add the sugar. Traditionally, this is done by placing a sugar cube into the mixing glass with the whiskey mixture. However, many bartenders prefer to use a simpler method, such as dissolving the sugar in water before adding it to the drink.
- Add orange bitters, if desired, and gently stir the mixture for another 10-15 seconds to combine the ingredients.
- Strain the cocktail into a pre-chilled glass, typically a rocks or Old Fashioned glass, using a J-strainer. This will catch any ice shards and ensure that the drink is served without any imperfections.
- Finally, express a orange peel over the drink by gently pressing it onto the rim of the glass. Release the oils and flavor into the air before placing the peel in the glass as garnish.
- The classic Old Fashioned cocktail is now assembled, chilled and strained to perfection. The combination of flavors will tantalize your taste buds with its complexity and balance.
Fill the mixing glass with ice to chill the ingredients
- The first step in assembling a classic Old Fashioned cocktail is to fill the mixing glass with ice.
- The amount of ice needed will depend on personal preference and the size of the mixing glass, but a general rule of thumb is to use enough ice to fill the glass about two-thirds full.
- The ice should be cubed or cracked into small pieces to maximize its chilling potential. This helps to rapidly cool the ingredients in the mixture and prevents the temperature from rising too quickly as you mix.
- Some bartenders recommend using “pebbled” ice, which is crushed ice that has been pressed together to form a smaller, more rounded shape. However, this type of ice is not necessary for an Old Fashioned and may be harder to find in some areas.
- Once the mixing glass is filled with ice, you can proceed to add the other ingredients required for the classic Old Fashioned recipe.
- The next steps will typically involve adding a small amount of bitters, such as Angostura or Orange Bitters, followed by two dashes of the chosen spirit, usually bourbon or rye whiskey.
- After adding these ingredients, the mixture is typically stirred with a spoon to combine and chill the ingredients further. The classic Old Fashioned is then strained into a chilled coupe glass and garnished with an orange peel or cherry before serving.
Strain the mixture into a chilled Old Fashioned glass
The final step in creating an authentic Old Fashioned cocktail involves straining the mixture into a chilled glass, which helps to preserve the delicate flavors and aromas of the ingredients.
To begin, ensure that you have prepared your Old Fashioned glass properly by chilling it in the refrigerator or by placing it in a container filled with ice water for at least 30 minutes before serving.
The ideal way to strain the mixture is to use a Hawthorne strainer, which allows for a smooth and even flow of the liquid into the chilled glass. To do this:
- Position the strainer over the chilled Old Fashioned glass
- Gently pour the prepared mixture through the strainer, allowing it to strain slowly into the glass
- Avoid stirring or disturbing the mixture at any point during the straining process, as this can introduce oxygen and damage the delicate flavors of the ingredients.
As you strain the mixture into the chilled glass, observe how it begins to take on a rich, velvety texture. This is due to the presence of the bitters, which adds depth and complexity to the overall flavor profile of the Old Fashioned.
The final step in assembling the Old Fashioned cocktail is to garnish it with a twist of citrus peel, typically an orange or lemon wedge. To do this:
- Choose a fresh and fragrant piece of citrus peel
- Rub the peel gently against the rim of the glass to release its oils and aromas
- Place the citrus twist in the glass, either on top of or alongside the liquid mixture.
The Old Fashioned is now complete, with all the ingredients carefully balanced and presented in a harmonious union. Enjoy this timeless cocktail as you would a fine work of art – savoring every moment, every flavor, and every sensation that it has to offer.
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