Alright, let’s talk about the OG of cocktails—the Old Fashioned. You know the one. That moody drink your grandfather probably sipped while telling stories about how gas used to cost a nickel. It’s simple. It’s strong. And let’s be real—it’s kind of a badass move to order one at a bar.
But hey, you don’t have to rock a fedora or grow a mustache to enjoy it. So, for this Throwback Thursday, we’re giving the Old Fashioned the love it deserves—and maybe sharing a few secrets to making it actually taste good (because not all of them do, IMO).
What Even Is an Old Fashioned?
Let’s get one thing straight—this cocktail isn’t “old fashioned” because it’s dusty and outdated. It’s “Old Fashioned” because it literally started the cocktail game. Like, 1800s-old.
Basic ingredients:
- Bourbon or rye whiskey (choose your fighter)
- Sugar cube (or simple syrup if you’re lazy—no shame)
- Bitters (Angostura is the GOAT)
- Orange peel (not a slice, not a wedge—a PEEL)
- Optional: cherry garnish (and no, those neon red ones are not optional—they’re banned)
Why does it still slap? Because it lets the whiskey shine. No mixers hiding behind fruit juice here. Just bold flavor with a touch of sweetness and a citrusy kick. Chef’s kiss.
How I Fell for the Old Fashioned
So, story time: I used to be a whiskey avoider. (Yeah, I know—shame.) One night, a friend ordered an Old Fashioned for me because “you’ll feel cool drinking it.” He wasn’t wrong.
I took one sip, winced a little, took another, and then boom—it clicked. That rich, smooth burn, the subtle sweetness, the orange oils hitting just right. It wasn’t just a drink—it was a vibe.
Common Mistakes That Ruin It (Don’t Be That Person)
Okay, let’s air some grievances real quick. People mess this up a lot. If your Old Fashioned tastes like cough syrup or a melted candy bar, you’ve been wronged.
Avoid these rookie mistakes:
- Muddling the orange – This isn’t a fruit salad, pal. Use the peel, and just twist it for the oils.
- Using cheap whiskey – If it wouldn’t taste good neat, it won’t magically get better in a glass with sugar.
- Too much sugar – It’s a cocktail, not dessert.
- Overdoing the bitters – 2–3 dashes, max. You’re not baptizing it.
Variations You Might Actually Like
Want to mix it up without betraying the classic? Try these:
- Smoked Old Fashioned – Use a smoking gun or a charred glass for that campfire aroma.
- Maple Old Fashioned – Sub maple syrup for sugar. Boom. Fall in a glass.
- Rum Old Fashioned – Yeah, it’s a thing. Works best with dark aged rum. Totally worth a try.
Final Sip: Why the Old Fashioned Still Reigns Supreme
Let’s be honest—trends come and go, but the Old Fashioned? It’s timeless. It doesn’t care about your seasonal spritzes or color-changing gin gimmicks. It shows up, does its job, and leaves you feeling like a grown adult with excellent taste.
So next time you’re standing at the bar wondering what to order, just nod at the bartender and say, “Old Fashioned.” Trust me, they’ll respect the move.
Pro tip: Try making one at home tonight. Make sure you have ‘throwback’ glasses as well. Worst case? You end up with a delicious mistake.
Cheers to keeping the classics alive—one Thursday at a time.