The Old Fashioned is a simple, yet timeless cocktail loved for its rich flavor. With a balanced mix of sweetness, bitterness, and whiskey, it has stayed popular across generations. Now, let’s take a look at the history and how to make this iconic drink.

History of the Old Fashioned Cocktail

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest and most classic cocktails, first appearing in the early 19th century. It was mentioned for the first time in 1806 in the newspaper “The Balance and Columbian Repository.” The cocktail got its name in the 1880s when its recipe was published in the “The Chicago Daily Tribune.”

Historic bar interior with a bartender at a polished wooden counter, flanked by traditional paintings, evoking the timeless atmosphere perfect for savoring a Classic Old Fashioned cocktail

Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail Ingredients

– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey

– 1 sugar cube

– 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters

– A splash of water

– Orange peel or slice for garnish

– Maraschino cherry (optional)

Classic Old Fashioned cocktail in a glass with an orange peel garnish, showcasing the rich amber color of the whiskey and bitters mixture

Preparation Process

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass.

2. Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of water.

3. Use a muddler to crush the sugar cube until it dissolves completely.

4. Fill the glass with ice cubes.

5. Pour in the bourbon or rye whiskey and stir well.

6. Garnish the cocktail with an orange peel or slice, and optionally, add a maraschino cherry.

Black and white photograph of a man at the entrance of a vintage cocktail bar, emphasizing the nostalgic charm and history associated with the Old Fashioned cocktail

Who Drinks This Cocktail

The Old Fashioned is a drink for those who appreciate classic and traditional flavors. It is preferred by people who enjoy strong and rich tastes, such as middle-aged and older men, as well as women interested in mixology and cocktail history.

Best Snacks to Pair with the Old Fashioned

This cocktail pairs well with a variety of snacks, including smoked meats, rich-flavored cheeses, nuts, and olives. Chocolate and coffee-based desserts are also a good match.

Vintage bar scene with a bartender behind a wooden counter, surrounded by classic artwork, capturing the old-fashioned ambiance ideal for enjoying a traditional Old Fashioned cocktail

5 Fascinating Stories About the Old Fashioned Cocktail

1. The Old Fashioned was a favorite drink of President Harry Truman. He often enjoyed it with his wife Bess after dinner.

2. The cocktail became iconic thanks to the popular TV show “Mad Men,” where the main character Don Draper frequently orders an Old Fashioned.

3. In the 1940s, this cocktail was so popular that it was served in hotels and clubs across America as a standard drink.

4. The Old Fashioned is one of the first cocktails included in the official guide of the International Bartenders Association (IBA).

5. At the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, where this cocktail was supposedly first mixed, the original recipe is still preserved.

Fact in the Spotlight

The most expensive whiskey in the world is Macallan “M” 1926, sold at auction for $1.9 million. Its high price is due to its rarity and age – aged for over 60 years in oak barrels, making it unique. The quality and craftsmanship of Macallan also play a key role, giving it an exceptional taste. The exclusivity of the release – only 40 bottles – makes it especially valuable to collectors. The presentation adds extra value too: the bottle, designed by Lalique, is a true work of art.

Quote of the Week

To understand what happiness is, you need to experience it.

Lev Tolstoy

That’s all for today. See you on Saturday next week!

Yours sincerely, Anton Masko