Old Fashioned
One of the oldest cocktails out there, an Old Fashioned is easy to whip up and even easier to enjoy. Some may say you shouldn't be adding anything to a good Bourbon or Rye, but the addition of a bit of sugar and bitters can really open it up. If anything, it's just a new way to experience your favourite Whiskeys.Going further, you can make an Old Fashioned out of many different base spirits, so it's worth experimenting. You may need to adjust the ingredients a little bit, but as long as you remain true to the style, it will be an Old Fashioned. Just have fun.Try this cocktail recipe with different Bourbons, Ryes, or even other Whiskey styles. Hell, try it with other spirits! The Old Fashioned is such a basic, it's fun to play with.
Ingredients
- 60 mL Bourbon or Rye, or any Whiskey you want to play with.
- 2 tsp Simple Syrup* or to taste.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Garnish with orange slice/twist and/or cherry (optional)
Instructions
- Add all ingredients (minus garnish) to a chilled rocks glass and stir.
- Add a large ice cube or a few smaller cubes to glass.
- Slip garnish to the side of the ice.
Notes
*Here's our Simple Syrup recipe.
As this is quite a simple drink, make sure to use a good Bourbon (or Rye, or Whiskey). The cocktail is very forward in terms of spirit, so don't waste it! This classic cocktail enhances a good Whiskey, so you're not going to improve a bad Whiskey with some sugar and Bitters. Bad Whiskey is bad Whiskey.
That being said, you'll get different mileage out of different Whiskeys, so have a play and see what works best for you. You may find that an Old Fashioned is a great way to enjoy your favourite Whiskey, or you may prefer to enjoy your favourite in a more basic way like neat or on the rocks.
Who knows? You don't know until your try.