Old Fashioned

Difficulty Rating:

1/5

*Difficulty Rating is based on the techniques used as well as the number, uniqueness, and the cost of ingredients

Despite the name, this cocktail is timeless.

A spirit-forward cocktail, it relies upon the strength of the main ingredient, most often bourbon.  The addition of bitters enhances and deepens the flavor, and just a touch of simple syrup balances this extraordinarily simple cocktail.  

Unfortunately Old Fashioneds tend to conjure an image of Mad-Men style swankiness; Expensive suits, high-end business deals, and an alarming lack of ethics. While it’s true that insecure men have latched on to something dark and strong in order to prove their own toughness, the second golden age of cocktails has shattered the oft abused notion of gendered drinks.  

The true appeal of this libation is the celebration of the spirit itself. With so little adjunct flavors the main spirit accounts for almost all the flavor. That being said, it is amazing what a big difference a couple of dashes of bitters and a tablespoon of sugar can make!

Equipment Needed

  • Mixing Glass
  • Jigger
  • Bar Spoon
  • Julep Strainer
  • Peeler

Just the stupid build, please!

 3 dashes

 3 dashes

1 barspoon –  1/4 oz

2 oz

Angostura Bitters

Orange Bitters

Demerara Syrup

Bourbon

  1. Make demerara syrup by mixing demerara sugar and water at a 1:1 ratio
  2. Measure and combine all ingredients in a mixing glass
  3. Add ice to mixing glass
  4. Stir contents for 30 seconds
  5. Strain with julep strainer into rocks glass filled with ice (one big cube if you’ve got it)
  6. Express an orange peel over the drink, rub on the rim, and drop in
  7. Garnish with a marasca cherry (optional)
Old Fash Pour 5 drip

History / Etymology