Drink Recipe:: Old Fashioned

I'd love to talk about one of my all-time favorite drinks, the Old Fashioned!

First, let's talk about the origins of this classic cocktail. It's said to have originated in the late 1800s and was originally made with whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. Over time, the recipe has evolved, but the basic ingredients have remained the same. The name "Old Fashioned" is said to have come from the way the drink was made - in the "old-fashioned" style of using just a few simple ingredients.

The Ingredients for a classic Old Fashioned are:

• 2 oz whiskey (bourbon or rye)
• 1 sugar cube or 1 tsp of simple syrup
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel
• Ice

To make it, start by placing the sugar cube or simple syrup in an Old Fashioned glass. Add the bitters and a splash of water and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Add the whiskey and a large ice cube, then stir until chilled. Finally, express the oils from an orange peel over the top of the drink and drop the peel into the glass.

Now, when it comes to who makes the best Old Fashioned, there's no shortage of contenders. Some bars even specialize in the drink and have become known for their unique twists on the classic recipe. One of the most well-known is the bar at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, where the drink is said to have been invented. Other bars known for their Old Fashioneds include The Violet Hour in Chicago, The Dead Rabbit in New York City, and The Franklin Mortgage & Investment Co. in Philadelphia.

Personally, I like my Old Fashioned with bourbon and a bit of muddled cherry and orange in addition to the bitters. It's a perfect drink for sipping slowly, preferably by a cozy fire or on a relaxing evening at home.

If you're looking to try making an Old Fashioned at home or want to explore some unique twists on the classic recipe, check out some of our other riffs.