What is it about the Old Fashioned cocktail that makes me feel like a sophisticated Mad Men character? Sure, it was popular in the 1960s, but its history actually goes back to the previous century. Legend has it that in the late 19th century, cocktails became increasingly popular. Gilded Age cocktails bordered on outrageous with flavored syrups and flashy ingredients. In response to this pendulum swing, old timers requested something more “old fashioned”; something more simple like in the old days. The first cocktail in the United States, the Whiskey Cocktail, was the basis for the Old Fashioned we know and love today. First recorded in 1806, the Whiskey Cocktail was a simple mix of whiskey, water, bitters and sugar. Did I mention this was considered a morning beverage? 

I am a massive fan of this cocktail. No offense to our 19th century ancestors, but personally, I drink it in the evening. I spent many grueling hours in pursuit of the perfect Old Fashioned. As a commitment to my craft, this was a sacrifice I was willing to make. Insert alcoholic writer joke here. Kidding aside, I took this pursuit very seriously. I learned through my “research” that ice really matters. My husband figured out that if you put a little water in a thermos cup and put it in the freezer, it creates completely clear ice. The slow freezing process allows for clarity. Let it thaw a little to remove it and it creates a completely clear hunk of ice, perfect for this cocktail. Of course, the most important ingredient in a great Old Fashioned is the spirit you choose. I opted for a local bourbon, but any bourbon or whiskey you enjoy will work. Rye bourbon adds a little more spice if you’re into that. 

It’s also important to have a classic rocks glass for this drink to really showcase the beautiful simplicity. What I like about making this drink is that no cocktail shakers are needed. All the mixing happens in the glass. To sweeten, simple syrup or a sugar cube is classic. I personally really love the flavor and simplicity of pure maple syrup. It’s sweet and flavorful and mixes into the cocktail with more ease than a sugar cube. If going the sugar cube route, be sure to use a muddler and spend a good minute blending the sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water to dissolve completely. Bitters are a classic addition that shouldn’t go overlooked. When it comes to fruit garnishes, go with what you like. If going with the classic recipe, I recommend a little orange peel and a maraschino cherry. For the maple version, I simply like an orange peel. The original Whiskey Cocktail called for a lemon peel yet somewhere along the way orange became more popular. Either way, use a paring knife to peel just a small bit and be sure to give it a twist over the glass to express the natural citrus oils. If you want to be really pretentious, take that citrus and rub it around the rim of the glass for maximum mixologist effect. 

Old Fashioned Cocktail

2 ounces bourbon

2-3 dashes Angostura bitters

1 sugar cube or 1 teaspoon pure maple syrup

Citrus peel-orange or lemon

Ice

Maraschino cherry

1. In a whiskey glass, add a sugar cube with a splash of water or maple syrup. If using sugar, muddle well until completely dissolved.
2. Add 2-3 dashes of bitters, then the whiskey.
3. Using a bar spoon, mix all ingredients together. Add a large hunk of ice or several cubes. Using the spoon, mix again to chill the drink.
4. Garnish with citrus peel and maraschino cherry.