© 2023 Static Media. All Rights Reserved
Smooth Old Fashioned co*cktail Recipe
Christina Musgrave/Tasting Table
This old fashioned co*cktail is, well, pretty old-fashioned, as it follows a very traditional and classic recipe. Recipe developer Christina Musgrave describes her smooth old fashioned as "pretty standard," saying it involves the same premise of whiskey, sugar, and bitters as do most other recipes, although she admits that bartenders will often make minor variations such as using simple syrup in place of sugar or using different types of bitters.
Musgrave's own tweak does involve switching up the bitters. While she retains the Angostura kind, she adds a few drops of orange bitters, as well. That way, not only is your drink extra-bitter, but it also has what she calls "a slight citrus twist that you will love." Well, a second citrus twist, that is, as the drink is already served with an actual twist of citrus peel. As Musgrave explains, the addition of orange bitters " give[s] the co*cktail some brightness and a faint citrus note."
Gather the ingredients for a smooth old fashioned
Christina Musgrave/Tasting Table
To make this drink, you'll need whiskey, the aforementioned bitters types, both orange and Angostura, as well as some sugar, and Musgrave specifically uses a sugar cube. As a garnish, you'll use the traditional orange peel.
Combine the drink ingredients
Christina Musgrave/Tasting Table
The first step in making an old fashioned is to combine all of the ingredients in whatever vessel you have at hand, though a co*cktail mixing glass works best. Mix the booze, bitters, and sugar, stirring until the last ingredient dissolves, then add some ice cubes and stir the drink some more until it feels cold.
Strain the co*cktail into a fresh glass
Christina Musgrave/Tasting Table
Strain the drink into a short, chunky serving glass such as a rocks glass. You'll want some fresh ice for the drink, too. Musgrave likes to use a jumbo-sized ice cube, saying "a large ice cube is ideal because the ice melts slower," but if your household doesn't run to such accouterments, you can use such ice as you do have on hand. You could also try to make your own jumbo ice cubes using very small Tupperware containers if you want to get creative.
Anyway, once you've got your ice sorted and your drink strained, drop a piece of orange peel in the drink. It's best if you just use a thin strip of zest rather than a thick, chunky piece with pith attached. And there you have it — a delicious old fashioned that does down oh so smoothly.
Smooth Old Fashioned co*cktail Recipe
5 from 37 ratings
This old fashioned co*cktail goes down nice and smooth.
Prep Time
5
minutes
Cook Time
minutes
Servings
1
Serving
Total time: 5 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 orange peel, for garnish
Directions
- Combine the sugar, both types of bitters, and whiskey in a co*cktail mixing glass. Stir or muddle until the sugar dissolves.
- Add some ice to the drink and stir it for a few seconds until it feels chilled.
- Strain the drink into an ice-filled glass.
- Garnish the drink with an orange peel.
Nutrition
| Calories per Serving | 166 |
| Total Fat | 0.0 g |
| Saturated Fat | 0.0 g |
| Trans Fat | 0.0 |
| Cholesterol | 0.0 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4.8 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 0.2 g |
| Total Sugars | 4.2 g |
| Sodium | 0.1 mg |
| Protein | 0.0 g |
The information shown is Edamam’s estimate based on available ingredients and preparation. It should not be considered a substitute for a professional nutritionist’s advice.
Rate this recipe
Recommended
As an enthusiast with a deep understanding of mixology and co*cktail crafting, I can attest to the artistry and precision involved in creating the perfect drink. My extensive knowledge encompasses not only the history and evolution of co*cktails but also the nuanced variations and innovative twists that skilled mixologists introduce to classic recipes.
Now, delving into the "Smooth Old Fashioned co*cktail Recipe" presented by Christina Musgrave on Tasting Table, it's evident that this co*cktail pays homage to the timeless tradition of the old-fashioned while incorporating subtle enhancements for a more refined experience.
-
Base Ingredients:
- The core components include whiskey, sugar, and bitters, adhering to the fundamental structure of most old-fashioned recipes. Notably, Christina Musgrave opts for a sugar cube, providing both sweetness and texture to the drink.
-
Bitters:
- The recipe calls for two types of bitters: Angostura and orange bitters. While Angostura bitters contribute to the classic bitter profile, the addition of orange bitters introduces a nuanced twist, imparting a faint citrus note and extra bitterness. This showcases the creativity and personalization that mixologists bring to their craft.
-
Whiskey:
- The choice of whiskey, whether bourbon or rye, is crucial in defining the character of the co*cktail. The robust flavor of whiskey serves as the backbone of the drink, ensuring a rich and satisfying experience.
-
Garnish:
- The traditional orange peel garnish adds both visual appeal and aromatic complexity to the co*cktail. Musgrave's recommendation of using a thin strip of zest emphasizes the importance of balance, avoiding overwhelming the drink with excessive citrus notes.
-
Mixing Technique:
- The meticulous mixing process involves combining all ingredients in a co*cktail mixing glass. Stirring until the sugar dissolves ensures even distribution of sweetness, and the addition of ice cubes followed by further stirring achieves the desired chill for the co*cktail.
-
Glassware and Presentation:
- Straining the final mixture into a short, chunky serving glass, such as a rocks glass, is a nod to the classic presentation of an old-fashioned. Musgrave's preference for a jumbo-sized ice cube highlights the consideration of dilution rates, allowing for a slower melting process that doesn't compromise the drink's integrity.
-
Nutritional Information:
- The inclusion of nutritional information, such as calories, total fat, and carbohydrates, adds a modern touch, catering to individuals with specific dietary preferences or restrictions.
In summary, this Smooth Old Fashioned co*cktail Recipe not only demonstrates a mastery of the foundational elements of mixology but also showcases the ingenuity and personal touch that elevate a classic co*cktail to a new level of sophistication. Whether you're a seasoned co*cktail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this recipe invites you to savor the artistry and craftsmanship behind a well-crafted old-fashioned co*cktail.
