The Bourbon Old Fashioned is the grandfather of all cocktails, boasting a rich history that dates back to the early 19th century. Traditionally, it’s a simple yet sophisticated blend of bourbon, sugar, water, and bitters, embodying the essence of classic cocktails. The Old Fashioned has stood the test of time, evolving from its origins in Louisville, Kentucky, to become a global cocktail favourite. Its name comes from patrons ordering their whiskey “the old-fashioned way,” preferring the simplicity and purity of this timeless concoction over more elaborate drinks of the era.
Ingredients
2 oz Bourbon whiskey
1 Sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp loose sugar)
Few dashes Angostura bitters
Splash of water
Ice cubes
Garnish: Orange peel and a maraschino cherry
Recommended Equipment
Old-fashioned glass (also known as a rocks glass)
Muddler
Bar spoon
Steps (How-To make it)
Muddle the Sugar and Bitters: Place the sugar cube in the bottom of an old-fashioned glass. Saturate it with a few dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of water. Use the muddler to crush the sugar and mix until it’s mostly dissolved. This step lays the foundation of flavor for your cocktail.
Add Bourbon: Pour the bourbon over the muddled sugar mixture. The quality of bourbon can greatly affect the drink’s overall taste, so choose one that you enjoy on its own.
Stir Gently: Add a few ice cubes to the glass and gently stir the mixture for about 30 seconds. This process chills the drink while slightly diluting it, making for a smoother sip.
Garnish and Serve: Express the oil of an orange peel over the glass, then drop it in along with a maraschino cherry. The garnish adds a subtle aroma and a hint of citrus flavor that beautifully complements the bourbon.
