The Old Fashioned: A Cocktail with Character

There are cocktails, and then there’s the Old Fashioned. It’s the drink that walks into a bar and immediately commands respect—no flashy ingredients, no frills, just pure, unadulterated class in a glass. If cocktails had personalities, the Old Fashioned would be that wise, well-dressed gentleman sitting in the corner, offering pearls of wisdom and a knowing smile.

A Sip Through History

The Old Fashioned is like that old friend who’s been there through thick and thin. It’s one of the oldest cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century when drinks were straightforward, and bartenders didn’t need to be mixologists with a degree in chemistry. Back then, an “old-fashioned” cocktail was just a spirit, a bit of sugar, water, and bitters—a simple yet perfect combination that has stood the test of time.

Legend has it that the Old Fashioned as we know it today was popularized at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, in the 1880s. It was supposedly crafted for a bourbon-loving distiller named Colonel James E. Pepper, who then took it to the Waldorf-Astoria in New York City, where it became a staple. And just like that, a legend was born.

The Recipe: Keeping It Simple

The beauty of the Old Fashioned lies in its simplicity. It’s not about over-the-top garnishes or exotic ingredients; it’s about letting the quality of the spirit shine through. Here’s how to make it the right way:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp sugar)
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• A few dashes of plain water
• Ice (preferably a large cube)
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry (optional, but classic)

Directions:

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass. Add the bitters and a few dashes of water.
2. Muddle the sugar and bitters until the sugar is dissolved. (Go ahead, take your time—this is a ritual, after all.)
3. Add a large ice cube or a couple of smaller ones.
4. Pour in the whiskey. Stir gently but deliberately—don’t rush this part. You’re letting the flavors mingle, like old friends catching up.
5. Express the oil from an orange peel over the glass, then drop it in. If you’re feeling nostalgic, add a maraschino cherry.

And there you have it: a cocktail that’s as smooth as it is strong, with a balance of sweetness, bitterness, and warmth that’s hard to beat.

Old Fashioned, New Twist

While the classic Old Fashioned is perfect as is, sometimes it’s fun to switch things up—just like how you might occasionally swap your trusty leather jacket for a crisp blazer.

• Smoky Old Fashioned: Add a splash of smoky Scotch whisky to the mix, or use a smoky bourbon. It’s like enjoying your Old Fashioned by a campfire.
• Maple Old Fashioned: Substitute the sugar with a teaspoon of real maple syrup. This version is a little sweeter, with a warm, autumnal vibe.
• Spiced Old Fashioned: Infuse your sugar with a bit of cinnamon or clove for a spiced take that feels cozy and comforting.

Why the Old Fashioned is Forever

The Old Fashioned isn’t just a drink; it’s a statement. It’s for those who appreciate the art of simplicity, who understand that sometimes, less really is more. It’s a cocktail that invites you to slow down, savor each sip, and appreciate the moment.

In a world of fleeting trends and flashy drinks, the Old Fashioned stands its ground, unchanging, and unapologetically itself. It’s a drink for the ages—one that doesn’t need to shout to be heard.

So, next time you’re in the mood for something classic, something that’s stood the test of time, you know what to order. And as you take that first sip, let it remind you that some things never go out of style.

Cheers to the Old Fashioned—timeless, elegant, and always in good taste.