Introduction
An old-fashioned is a cocktail that has been around since the 19th century. It was originally known as the “whiskey cocktail,” but over time it has evolved and now includes a variety of spirits and mixers. This article will explore the history of old-fashioned drinks, provide tasty recipes to try, explain why you should give one a try, and offer tips from professional bartenders on how to craft the perfect cocktail.
A History of Old-Fashioned Drinks: How the Cocktail Became a Classic
The origins of the cocktail can be traced back to the early 1800s when Americans first started experimenting with mixing different types of spirits and ingredients. According to historian David Wondrich, “The earliest reference to a cocktail appeared in print in 1806, in the Balance and Columbian Repository of Hudson, New York. It was simply defined as ‘a stimulating liquor, composed of spirits of any kind, sugar, water and bitters.'”
The drink was initially called a “whiskey cocktail” but eventually came to be known as an old-fashioned. Over time, the recipe evolved to include variations such as rye whiskey or brandy, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters. The drink also gained popularity during the Prohibition era, when people were looking for creative ways to make their bootleg spirits taste better.
The Best Old-Fashioned Recipes to Try Now
The beauty of old-fashioned drinks is that there are so many different recipes to choose from. Here are two classic recipes to get you started:
Traditional Recipe
Ingredients: 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey; 1 teaspoon simple syrup; 2 dashes Angostura bitters; orange peel and maraschino cherry for garnish.
Instructions: Pour the whiskey, simple syrup and bitters into a rocks glass. Add ice and stir until chilled. Garnish with an orange peel and a maraschino cherry.
Creative Variation
Ingredients: 2 ounces gin; ¾ ounce elderflower liqueur; ½ ounce lemon juice; ¼ ounce simple syrup; 3 dashes orange bitters; orange peel and mint sprig for garnish.
Instructions: Pour the gin, elderflower liqueur, lemon juice, simple syrup and bitters into a shaker filled with ice. Shake vigorously until the outside of the shaker is frosty. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with an orange peel and a mint sprig.
10 Reasons Why You Should Give an Old-Fashioned a Try
Old-fashioned drinks have long been a favorite among cocktail aficionados, but even if you’re new to the world of craft cocktails, you should give them a try. Here are ten reasons why:
- Variety of flavors: Old-fashioned drinks are incredibly versatile, allowing you to experiment with different types of spirits, mixers, and bitters to create unique flavor combinations.
- An impressive presentation: An old-fashioned looks great when served in a rocks glass, with a nice piece of citrus peel and a maraschino cherry for garnish.
- A timeless classic: There’s something special about enjoying a classic cocktail like an old-fashioned that has been a favorite of drinkers for centuries.
- Easy to make: Despite its complex flavor profile, an old-fashioned is surprisingly easy to make. All you need is a few basic ingredients and some stirring skills.
- Inexpensive: Compared to other craft cocktails, an old-fashioned is relatively inexpensive to make. Most of the ingredients are readily available, and you don’t need any fancy tools or equipment.
- Low in calories: An old-fashioned contains fewer calories than other alcoholic beverages, making it a healthier option.
- A crowd pleaser: Old-fashioned drinks are always a hit at parties, as they’re easy to make in large batches and everyone loves the flavor.
- Versatile: Old-fashioned drinks can be enjoyed at any time of day – morning, noon, or night. They’re also perfect for any occasion, from a casual dinner party to a formal wedding reception.
- Makes a great gift: If you’re looking for a thoughtful gift for a friend or family member, look no further than an old-fashioned. It’s sure to be a hit!
- A classic never goes out of style: The popularity of old-fashioned drinks has endured for centuries, and it’s not likely to go away anytime soon.
Exploring the Revival of Old-Fashioned Drinks
In recent years, there has been a resurgence in the popularity of old-fashioned drinks. Craft cocktail bars have popped up all over the country, offering creative interpretations of classic cocktails. Artisanal spirits are also gaining in popularity, giving drinkers more options when it comes to choosing the base spirit for their old-fashioned.
This revival of the classic cocktail has allowed bartenders to experiment with new ingredients and techniques. For example, some bartenders are using smoked ice cubes or homemade syrups to add a unique twist to their old-fashioneds.
Discovering Unusual Ingredients in Old-Fashioned Drinks
One of the most exciting aspects of crafting old-fashioned drinks is discovering unusual ingredients to infuse in your drink. From herbs and spices to fruits and vegetables, the possibilities are endless. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Unique flavor combinations: Infusing your old-fashioned with herbs such as rosemary, sage, thyme or basil can add interesting layers of flavor to your drink.
- Fruits and vegetables: Fruits like oranges, lemons and limes can add brightness to your drink, while vegetables such as cucumber, peppers and ginger can add depth and complexity.
- Spices: Adding spices such as cinnamon, nutmeg or cardamom can give your drink a warm and inviting aroma.
- Herbs: Herbs like lavender, mint and chamomile can bring a refreshing note to your drink.
How to Make an Old-Fashioned for Any Occasion
If you’re looking to impress your guests with a delicious old-fashioned, follow these steps:
- Choose the right ingredients: Start by selecting a good quality base spirit – bourbon or rye whiskey are traditional choices, but you can also use vodka, gin, tequila or rum. Next, select the right mixers – simple syrup, Angostura bitters and orange bitters are all good options.
- Follow a basic recipe: Use a basic recipe as a starting point, then adjust the ratios of the ingredients to suit your taste. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of spirits, mixers and bitters to find the perfect combination.
Crafting the Perfect Old-Fashioned: Tips from Professional Bartenders
Making a great old-fashioned isn’t just about following a recipe – it’s also about technique. Here are a few tips from professional bartenders:
- Prepare the ingredients: Before you start making your drink, make sure all the ingredients are prepped and ready to go. This will save you time and help ensure that your drink is perfectly balanced.
- Stir, don’t shake: While shaking can be used for certain cocktails, an old-fashioned should be stirred to avoid diluting the drink too much.
- Garnish with care: The garnish is an important part of an old-fashioned – make sure to use fresh citrus peel and top with a maraschino cherry for the perfect finishing touch.
Conclusion
Old-fashioned drinks are a timeless classic that have stood the test of time. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed at any time of day. With the right ingredients and a little bit of practice, you can craft the perfect old-fashioned for any occasion.
(Note: Is this article not meeting your expectations? Do you have knowledge or insights to share? Unlock new opportunities and expand your reach by joining our authors team. Click Registration to join us and share your expertise with our readers.)