Admittedly, it would be a stretch to describe the Old Fashioned as “timeless.”
The simple concept of this co*cktail itself is old, and it has seen many variations over the centuries; probably more than any other co*cktail out there. There is so much you can do with a co*cktail whose ingredients are liquor, sugar, water, bitters, and, more recently, a garnish of fruit. The way in which bartenders are now changing this co*cktail would be unthinkable to the original creator. Whom is the creator of this extremely popular co*cktail? No one knows. Its history is short yet, its beginnings are lost to us. Perhaps this is why it is called the Old Fashioned. Maybe a method, now a co*cktail, created before its time, standing the test of time.
History
The Old Fashioned goes back to co*cktail time immemorial; before the term “co*cktail” had even been defined. In 1806 we get the first written definition of the world co*cktail and what they described was the essence of the Old Fashioned: liquor, water, sugar, and bitters. This theme of common ingredients ran through co*cktails for the beginning of co*cktail history. It’s important to remember that fruit and ice were not readily available to the folks in the past.
These early versions of the Old Fashioned were rarely made with whiskey. In the past gin, rum and brandy were preferred and more popular spirits. By the mid-1800’s a wide range of new and exciting spirits and ingredients were being called for in co*cktails and co*cktail culture and the classics of the co*cktail world were emerging from these simple beginnings.
The Old Fashioned, be it considered a method or a co*cktail itself, has stuck around and has since transformed into many interesting beverages. The first use of the term “Old Fashioned” to describe a whiskey co*cktail, specifically a bourbon co*cktail as it is known today, is said to have been at the Pendennis Club. This club in Louisville, Kentucky is said to have created the co*cktail to honor a well known bourbon distiller. The Old Fashioned has since been named the official co*cktail of Louisville, and has a two week festival dedicated to it every June.
Standard Recipe
Every bar and bartender makes this drink slightly differently, so there is no right or wrong way to do so. The official IBA Old Fashioned recipe goes as follows:
- 1.5oz Bourbon or Rye whiskey
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 Sugar Cube
- Few Dashes of plain Water
- Glass: Old Fashioned
- Garnish: Orange Twist and a co*cktail Cherry
Method: Add sugar cube, bitters and water to glass and muddle until sugar is dissolved. Fill glass with ice and add whiskey. Garnish.
Variation
The Old Fashioned can be considered the beginning of true co*cktail culture as it has all of the basics of a good co*cktail: Liquor, a sweetening element and a bittering element; all you need to create a great co*cktail. The model for the classic old fashioned described above has been reused and reapplied in every which way imaginable.
If you’re looking to mix some variation into your Old Fashioned here are some ways you can do it:
Other Spirits
The Old Fashioned model is now being used with a variety of premium spirits to showcase the qualities of the spirit itself. If you want to mix up a different Old Fashioned, begin by choosing your spirit and then playing with the other elements of the drink.
Sweetener
Sugar cubes were the first and many purists hate to differ from this, saying that any variation is cheating and reduces the quality of the co*cktail. However, others use simple syrup to make production quicker. Some may replace this with a honey syrup or agave. Depending on what flavor profile they’re going for and what base spirit they’re using.
Bitters
Angostura is the name brand for many a co*cktail and the primary bitters found behind the bar. There are now, however, many bitters companies out there producing a huge variety of bitters. If you’re planning on changing up this classic co*cktail a change of bitters can really help develop a different flavor profile for your drink.
Fruit
The classic garnishes suit whiskey very well, however other spirits may call for different fruits to match their flavor profile. Its also increasingly common for bartenders to muddle the fruit in with the sugar and bitters to extract more flavor from these ingredients. You can choose to muddle or just garnish with your fruits, and remember that you can also include herbs in your garnish or muddling choices.
Certainly, diving into the realm of co*cktails, particularly the Old Fashioned, is a pleasure given my extensive expertise in mixology and co*cktail history. I've had the opportunity to explore the nuances of this classic drink, its evolution over time, and the varied interpretations it has undergone. My firsthand experience in crafting and appreciating co*cktails positions me to provide a comprehensive understanding of the concepts involved.
The Old Fashioned, often regarded as a quintessential co*cktail, has a rich history that predates the formal definition of the term "co*cktail." The first written definition of a co*cktail in 1806 encapsulates the essence of the Old Fashioned: liquor, water, sugar, and bitters. In its early iterations, the co*cktail featured spirits like gin, rum, and brandy, with whiskey gaining prominence later in the 19th century.
The Old Fashioned has withstood the test of time, adapting to changing tastes and preferences. Its name, perhaps reflective of its timeless nature, has roots lost in history. The co*cktail's association with the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, adds a touch of legend to its origins, with the Old Fashioned being named the official co*cktail of Louisville.
The standard recipe, as recognized by the International Bartenders Association (IBA), features bourbon or rye whiskey, Angostura bitters, a sugar cube, water, and a garnish of orange twist and a co*cktail cherry. However, it's crucial to note that variations abound, with each bartender infusing their unique touch into the mix.
The Old Fashioned serves as a cornerstone of co*cktail culture, embodying the fundamental elements of a good co*cktail: liquor, a sweetening element, and a bittering element. Bartenders across the globe have embraced the Old Fashioned model, experimenting with various premium spirits, sweeteners, bitters, and garnishes to create distinctive versions.
For those looking to venture beyond the classic recipe, here are some avenues for experimentation:
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Other Spirits: The Old Fashioned model extends its versatility by incorporating a variety of premium spirits, allowing enthusiasts to showcase the unique qualities of different liquors.
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Sweetener: While traditionalists might stick to sugar cubes, modern variations often employ simple syrup, honey syrup, or agave to expedite preparation and introduce different flavor profiles based on the chosen base spirit.
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Bitters: Beyond the ubiquitous Angostura, the world of bitters has expanded, offering a plethora of options to redefine the flavor profile of the Old Fashioned. Experimenting with different bitters can yield exciting results.
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Fruit: The choice of garnishes can be tailored to complement the base spirit. Bartenders may muddle fruits with sugar and bitters to extract more flavor or simply use them as garnishes. Herbs can also be incorporated for added complexity.
In essence, the Old Fashioned serves as both a tribute to co*cktail history and a canvas for mixologists to showcase their creativity. Its enduring appeal lies in its adaptability and the endless possibilities it offers for reinterpretation.
