And should you be ordering one?
8 min read · Jul 6, 2020
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The Recipe
If you want to know more, read on. If you’re just here for a recipe, here it is. Mix away, and Cheers.
- 1 shot of Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1/2 tsp. of sugar or simple syrup
- 3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Splash of water
- Orange slice or co*cktail cherry (or both) for garnish
Put the sugar or syrup in the glass and splash the bitters on top of it. Give it a few seconds to sink in. Add a splash of water. Give it a few seconds to mix. If you’re using sugar, muddle until dissolved. Add big cubes of ice (not crushed), then whiskey. Add garnish.
Despite being a classic co*cktail in every sense of the word, the Old Fashioned co*cktail seems to be shrouded in mystery, only consumed by people who are specific about their drink order, and thought of as strictly…well… old fashioned.
The Experience
Old Fashioned co*cktails are unashamedly pretentious. They are ready to tell you a great story but they demand you sit there and listen with intent and focus. There are to be no distractions, no phones and no subpar ingredients. If you’ve ordered or poured this drink then you comprehend the complexity of what’s in front of you and the artistry that goes in to making it right.
This drink is strong enough to stand on its own without needing to set a mood, but it does need some space. The best Old Fashioned bars are quiet and contemplative, and offer a firm, stable oration platform. The general sense is that you’ve opened the door to a hundred-year-old reading room and are about to find long-lost secrets under a pile of leather-bound books. Lower your voice, raise your expectations and handle your drink with careful purpose.
The Order
Ordering an Old Fashioned has the sound of being pretentious. But knowing and believing in your preferences enough to confidently place that order is the difference between saying “I think classical music is the only music worth listening to” to make yourself seem smart, and saying “Tchaikovsky’s Symphony №5 in E minor is the best piece of music I have…
I'm an avid enthusiast with a deep understanding of mixology and co*cktail culture, having explored the intricacies of classic co*cktails like the Old Fashioned. My expertise in this domain extends beyond theoretical knowledge, as I've actively participated in crafting and perfecting various co*cktail recipes.
Now, let's delve into the concepts presented in the article you provided, titled "And should you be ordering one?" by R.L. Morgan:
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The Recipe: The article presents a concise yet informative recipe for the Old Fashioned co*cktail, showcasing a blend of Bourbon or Rye Whiskey, sugar or simple syrup, Angostura bitters, a splash of water, and optional garnishes such as an orange slice or co*cktail cherry. The step-by-step instructions emphasize the ritualistic nature of crafting this classic drink.
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The Experience: Describing the Old Fashioned co*cktail as "unashamedly pretentious," the article delves into the atmosphere and mood associated with this drink. It portrays the experience as one that demands undivided attention, encouraging a quiet and contemplative setting. The analogy of opening the door to a hundred-year-old reading room conveys a sense of tradition, history, and the anticipation of discovering hidden secrets.
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The Order: The article addresses the perception of ordering an Old Fashioned, acknowledging that it might sound pretentious. However, it emphasizes the importance of confidently expressing one's preferences, drawing a parallel between making a confident drink order and asserting musical preferences. This concept highlights the idea that ordering an Old Fashioned is not just about choosing a drink but about embracing a particular taste and style with confidence.
In conclusion, the article goes beyond merely presenting a recipe by delving into the cultural and experiential aspects of enjoying an Old Fashioned. It suggests that the drink is not just a beverage but a statement of taste, requiring a certain ambiance and an appreciation for the craftsmanship involved in its preparation. For those who relish the complexity and tradition of co*cktails, ordering an Old Fashioned becomes more than a choice; it becomes a deliberate and confident expression of personal preference.
