Calling all Bourbon Lovers!
If you’re a fan of Bourbon, then you know that it’s not just a drink, it’s a passion. From the smokiness and richness of the spirit to the complexity of flavors that it brings to cocktails, there’s just something about Bourbon that stirs the soul.
One of the most popular Bourbon cocktails is the Old Fashioned. It’s a classic drink that has been around for over a century, but what’s the secret ingredient that makes the perfect Old Fashioned? Is it the type of Bourbon, or is it the way you muddle the sugar? Let’s explore this topic and see if we can uncover the answer.
The History of the Old Fashioned
Before we dive into the ingredients that make the perfect Old Fashioned, let’s take a look at the history of this classic cocktail. The Old Fashioned got its start in the late 1800s in Louisville, Kentucky. Bartenders would mix Bourbon, bitters, and sugar water in a glass and serve it over ice. Over time, variations of the recipe emerged, including adding fruit, soda water, and other ingredients. Eventually, the cocktail was refined to what we now know as the Old Fashioned.
The Perfect Old Fashioned Ingredients
Now let’s get to the heart of the matter: what ingredients make the perfect Old Fashioned? First and foremost, it all starts with the Bourbon. You want to choose a Bourbon that has a bold and complex flavor profile to stand up to the other ingredients. Some good choices include Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, and Knob Creek.
Next, you’ll need bitters. Bitters are a concentrated flavoring made from herbs, spices, and other natural ingredients. They add depth and complexity to cocktails and are an essential ingredient in the Old Fashioned. Angostura bitters are the most commonly used in the cocktail, but there are others to choose from, such as Peychaud’s, Regan’s, and Fee Brothers.
Then there’s the sugar. Some people use simple syrup in their Old Fashioned, while others prefer to use a sugar cube. The debate rages on which is better, but ultimately it comes down to personal preference. If you use a sugar cube, you’ll need to muddle it with the bitters to dissolve it before adding the Bourbon.
Finally, there’s the garnish. The traditional garnish for an Old Fashioned is a slice of orange and a cherry, but again, this can be customized to your taste. Some people like to add a twist of lemon or lime, or even a sprig of fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme.
Putting it all Together
Now that you have all the ingredients, it’s time to make the perfect Old Fashioned. Here’s the recipe:
Ingredients:
– 2 oz. Bourbon
– 1 sugar cube
– 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Splash of water
– Orange slice and cherry for garnish
Instructions:
1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass and add the bitters.
2. Muddle the sugar and bitters until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Add a splash of water and the Bourbon.
4. Stir until well combined.
5. Add ice to the glass and stir for 10-15 seconds.
6. Garnish with an orange slice and cherry.
7. Enjoy!
Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned
If you want to take your Old Fashioned to the next level, here are a few tips:
1. Use a high-quality ice cube. The ice you use can make a big difference in the flavor of your cocktail. Use a large, clear ice cube to keep your drink cold without watering it down too much.
2. Experiment with different types of Bourbon. While we’ve listed some popular choices above, there are hundreds of Bourbons out there to choose from. Try a few different ones to see which you like best in your Old Fashioned.
3. Use a good quality mixing spoon. A long, spiraled mixing spoon can help you stir your cocktail to perfection and give it a silky smooth texture.
4. Don’t over-muddle the sugar. Muddling the sugar too much can release bitterness from the pith of the orange, which can affect the flavor of your cocktail.
In Conclusion
Bourbon lovers rejoice! The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic that is easy to make and endlessly customizable. Whether you prefer to use simple syrup or a sugar cube, Angostura bitters or something different, the perfect Old Fashioned is all about finding the right balance of flavors and ingredients. So raise a glass to the Old Fashioned, and enjoy the rich and complex flavors of Bourbon in a classic cocktail that never goes out of style.
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