Old fashioned

Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Renowned for its simple yet sophisticated blend of ingredients, it is considered one of the oldest known cocktails, with its origins tracing back to the early 19th century. The Old Fashioned embodies the essence of cocktail culture, combining alcohol, sugar, and bitters to create a drink that is both robust and refined.

History

The Old Fashioned was first mentioned in the early 1800s, where it was referred to as a "bittered sling." This term was used to describe a concoction of spirits, water, sugar, and bitters. It was not until 1881, at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, that the cocktail was officially named the "Old Fashioned." The drink was created in honor of Colonel James E. Pepper, a prominent bourbon distiller, who then introduced it to the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel bar in New York City.

Ingredients

The traditional Old Fashioned recipe calls for:

• A sugar cube or 1/2 teaspoon of sugar
• Angostura bitters
• A small splash of water
• 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey
• Ice cubes
• Orange twist or cherry for garnish

Preparation

The preparation of an Old Fashioned is straightforward yet requires attention to detail to perfect:

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass and saturate it with bitters, adding a dash of plain water.
2. Muddle these ingredients together until the sugar is dissolved.
3. Fill the glass with ice cubes and add the whiskey.
4. Gently stir to combine and properly chill the mixture.
5. Garnish with an orange twist or cherry.

Variations

Over the years, numerous variations of the Old Fashioned have emerged, incorporating different spirits, sweeteners, and garnishes. Some popular variations include using maple syrup instead of sugar or substituting the traditional bourbon or rye whiskey with other spirits such as brandy or rum.

Cultural Significance

The Old Fashioned has seen a resurgence in popularity in the 21st century, thanks in part to its prominent placement in popular culture, such as its frequent appearance in the television series Mad Men. It has become synonymous with sophistication and has retained its status as a staple in the cocktail repertoire, celebrated for its timeless appeal and simplicity.

See Also

• Cocktail
• Bourbon whiskey
• Rye whiskey
• Bitters
• Mad Men