Old Fashioned
cocktailwhiskeystrongsweetspicy

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic that perfectly balances the rich warmth of bourbon with the subtle sweetness of sugar and the aromatic complexity of bitters. Garnished with a twist of orange and a cherry, this cocktail invites you to savor every sip as it transports you to a cozy speakeasy.

5 min
medium
rocks glass

Ingredients

  • 4.5 cL Bourbon
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 cube Sugar
  • dash Water
Garnish: orange twist, cocktail cherry

Instructions

  1. 1

    Place sugar cube in old fashioned glass and saturate with bitters, add a dash of plain water

  2. 2

    Muddle until dissolved

  3. 3

    Fill the glass with ice cubes and add whiskey

  4. 4

    Garnish with orange twist, and a cocktail cherry.

Pro Tip

For a truly exceptional Old Fashioned, use a high-quality bourbon and freshly squeezed orange peel for the garnish. Don't rush the muddling process; let the sugar and bitters fully dissolve to enhance the drink's flavor.

The Story Behind the Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. It originated in Louisville, Kentucky, and became a staple in gentlemen's clubs and speakeasies during the Prohibition era. Its simple yet sophisticated blend of whiskey, sugar, and bitters has made it a timeless favorite.

What Pairs Well

Food Pairings

  • 🍽️
    Steak au Poivre

    The bold flavors of a pepper-crusted steak complement the strong, spicy notes of the Old Fashioned.

  • 🍽️
    Dark Chocolate Truffles

    The rich sweetness of dark chocolate enhances the bourbon's caramel undertones.

  • 🍽️
    Smoked Salmon Canapés

    The smoky, savory taste of salmon pairs beautifully with the cocktail's aromatic bitters.

Perfect For

  • Poker Night

    The Old Fashioned's classic appeal makes it a perfect companion for a night of cards and camaraderie.

  • Celebrating a Promotion

    Raise a glass of this sophisticated cocktail to toast your success in style.

  • Rainy Sunday Afternoon

    Cozy up with an Old Fashioned and enjoy the comforting warmth it brings.

  • Recovering from a Bad Date

    Let the smooth, sweet flavors of this cocktail lift your spirits after a rough night.

Fun Facts

  • The Old Fashioned was reportedly the favorite drink of President Harry S. Truman.

  • In 2015, the Old Fashioned was named the world's most popular cocktail by Drinks International.

  • The cocktail's name comes from the 19th-century practice of asking for a drink 'the old-fashioned way.'

Make This Drink with Tom or Tina

Watch our bartenders mix it up with fun animations!