A Brief History of the Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s, making it one of the oldest known cocktail recipes. It was first mentioned in 1806, when a journalist described a cocktail as a potent concoction of liquor, bitters, water, and sugar. By the 1860s, the Old Fashioned, as we know it, had started to take shape.
The cocktail gained significant popularity in the early 20th century, especially at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky. It is often said that bartenders there perfected the drink by adding a twist of orange peel. Over time, the Old Fashioned became synonymous with sophistication and timeless taste.
Ingredients
- 60 ml Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 10 ml Simple Syrup or 1 sugar cube
- 2-3 dashes of Angostura Bitters
- Orange peel (for garnish)
- A maraschino cherry (optional)
Instructions
1. Prep Your Glass: Take an old-fashioned glass (also known as a rocks glass) and place your sugar cube in it. If you're using simple syrup instead, pour it directly into the glass.
2. Add Bitters: Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube or into the simple syrup.
3. Muddle: If using a sugar cube, muddle it with the bitters until it dissolves. This will create a paste at the bottom of your glass. If using simple syrup, simply mix it with the bitters using a bar spoon.
4. Add Whiskey: Pour 60 ml of Bourbon or Rye Whiskey into the glass.
5. Add Ice: Add a large ice cube or several smaller ones to the glass. Using a large ice cube will chill the drink without diluting it too quickly.
6. Stir: Stir the cocktail gently for about 20-30 seconds to ensure everything is well-mixed and chilled.
7. Garnish: Express the oils from a piece of orange peel by holding it over the glass and giving it a quick twist. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass and then drop it in. Add a maraschino cherry if desired.
Enjoy Your Old Fashioned
And there you have it! A classic Old Fashioned cocktail, measured precisely and crafted with care. This timeless drink is perfect for any occasion and is sure to impress your guests. Cheers to enjoying one of the oldest and most beloved cocktails in history!