Old Fashioned
The quintessential whiskey cocktail. This timeless drink combines bourbon, sugar, bitters, and orange for a perfectly balanced and sophisticated experience that has stood the test of time.
Prep Time
3 mins
Serves
1 person
Difficulty
Easy
Rating
4.9/5
Ingredients
Bourbon Whiskey
2 ozHigh-quality bourbon for best results
Simple Syrup
1/4 ozOr 1 sugar cube
Angostura Bitters
2-3 dashesEssential for authentic flavor
Orange Peel
For GarnishFresh orange for aromatic oils
Instructions
Muddle Sugar
In an old-fashioned glass, muddle the sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water until dissolved.
Add Whiskey
Pour in the bourbon whiskey and stir gently to combine with the muddled sugar mixture.
Add Ice
Fill the glass with one large ice cube or several smaller cubes, stirring briefly to chill.
Garnish and Serve
Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in. Serve immediately.
The Story Behind the Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest known cocktails, with origins dating back to the 1880s. It was created as a reaction to the increasingly elaborate cocktails of the time - bartenders would make drinks the "old-fashioned way" with just whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water.
This classic cocktail gained renewed popularity during the Mad Men era and has remained a staple in cocktail culture ever since. Its simplicity is deceptive - while it only contains a few ingredients, each one plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance.
The beauty of an Old Fashioned lies in its versatility and the quality of its ingredients. A great bourbon or rye whiskey shines through, while the sugar and bitters provide depth and complexity that complement rather than mask the spirit.
Pro Tips
Use premium bourbon for the best flavor profile
Stir thoroughly to ensure the sugar fully dissolves
Chill your cocktail glass beforehand for best results
Fresh citrus garnish adds both aroma and visual appeal
Adjust sweetness by adding more or less sugar to taste