The Old Fashioned: A Delectable History

The true origins of the Old Fashioned cocktail dates back to the 1800s, with its first iteration being called the Whiskey Cocktail (or a ‘sling) and only including the ingredients of water, whiskey, sugar, and bitters. The origin of The Old Fashioned's introduction into society isn't clear, but the Pendennis Club… a still running and reformed gentlemen’s club in Kentucky boasts the first serving. BUT, Chicago also lays claim to the honor mentioning the Old Fashioned in the Chicago Tribune a whole year before the lacquered doors of the Pendennis Club even opened.

The Chicago Tribune Building

       The Pendennis Club in Louisville, KY.

Although it isn’t clear where or who took the first sip, time has only shown that the Old Fashioned is one that has been loved and ordered through the centuries. It’s so popular that fragrance house Killian is releasing an Old Fashioned themed perfume this upcoming Fall/Winter!  As we explore this drink’s variants and evolutions, let's remember any cocktail recipe shared (no matter what the bartender says!!!!) can be updated and customized to your liking.

Rye, a whiskey that is known to have a peppery and clove-like vibe to it (making it have quite the nice kick), is the traditional spirit of choice in the Old Fashioned. It’s something to note that even 200 years ago, American distillers and bartenders were diversifying their palettes with new liqueurs, spirits, and additions to the cocktails they once served on the rocks to keep their patrons interested after and often before a long day's work. 

Bourbon has become the new-er age alternative though mezcal and rum have recently become other popular alternatives. What remains the same are the main components of a spirit, sugar, and bitters. Consider bitters the seasoning to your cocktails, especially the Old Fashioned. Changing up the bitters is the way to add your own style to your Old Fashioned, just like changing up the spices in a rice dish can take it from Chinese to Caribbean to Mexican. Oftentimes, bitters round out a too-sweet cocktail without the fizziness of club soda adding an additional depth and complexity.

There are a million Old Fashioned recipes out there, but the basics again are spirit, sugar, and bitters. Some thoughts on sugar and bitters to help you find your favorite recipe. 

SUGAR

Sugar cubes - Here is where I will get on my high horse and wax poetically and emphatically for the return to the sugar cube. Soaked in your bitters and then muddled before adding your bourbon with a quick stir -  the sugar cube takes sipping the Old Fashioned on a journey. You are naturally going to get some granules settled at the bottom of your glass that are going to mix into your drink each time you sip so each sip is different, elevating different notes of your bourbon and bitters. 

Simple Syrup - You can also, if you so desire because you aren’t one to follow tradition, go with simple syrup. I recommend a 2:1 ratio of sugar and water for a rich syrup that will add depth and not dilute the mouthfeel of your spirit. Simple syrup combines completely with the spirit which is why it has become a popular favorite. Expect a well rounded and consistent cocktail. 

Brown Sugar - For extra warming notes brown sugar syrups can also be subbed in, note that depending on light or brown sugar you will be adding more molasses notes which can mute the other flavors in your chosen spirit.

Honey - will add lighter flavor notes but more sweetness than traditional sugar options. Best used for those who have a particular sweet tooth. Note too that your best bet is to make a honey syrup OR to add your honey and mix well with your bourbon before adding ice. 

Cherry Juice (non tart)- All out of sugar but find yourself with some cocktail cherries? Add a splash of cherry juice for a cherry forward Old Fashioned. 

BITTERS

Angostura and Peychaud’s are the two most common adding spicy-citrus-herbaceous and anise-cherry notes respectively. But again, bitters are seasoning and these days the sky's the limit! Chocolate, lavender, peach, creole, and my absolute favorite cardamom. Depending on the bitter you can make your Old Fashioned a delicious dessert, a refreshingly spicy sip, or a sophisticated savor. From there, these days anything goes!

The easiest way to change the profile of your Old Fashioned after bitters is to jazz up your sugar syrup with fruit, spices, chilis, whatever you can think of. You can even add a spritz of edible glitter to amp up the shine. Whatever suits your fancy.

And with that, enjoy!