How To Make The Perfect Old-Fashioned
Ah, the old-fashioned. One of the most classic drinks of all time. It's been around since the mid 1800s, and its simple ingredients and classic flavor have kept it a favorite for centuries. Whether you're an experienced mixologist or a novice looking to craft a classic cocktail, learning how to make the perfect old-fashioned will come in handy for many occasions. Read on to learn the ins and outs of crafting a delicious old-fashioned.
Choose Your Whiskey
The first step in making a great old-fashioned is choosing the right whiskey. While some people prefer rye whiskey, the most traditional ingredient is bourbon. Look for a high-quality bourbon with a smooth and mellow flavor. Be sure to select a whiskey that is not too sweet, as the sweetness of the drink comes from the other ingredients. Avoid using flavored whiskeys, as they will change the flavor of the drink.
Mix Your Ingredients
Once you've chosen your whiskey, it's time to mix the other ingredients. The traditional old-fashioned recipe calls for two parts whiskey, one part simple syrup, and two dashes of angostura bitters. Begin by pouring the whiskey and simple syrup into a shaker filled with ice. Add the bitters and stir until the ingredients are well mixed. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with ice.
Add the Garnish
The final step in making a great old-fashioned is the garnish. The traditional garnish for an old-fashioned is an orange peel. Take a piece of orange peel and twist it over the top of the drink to release the oils. Rub the rim of the glass with the orange peel, and then drop the peel into the drink. If desired, you can also add a maraschino cherry as a garnish.
Enjoy Your Old-Fashioned!
Once you have added the garnish, you can enjoy your old-fashioned. Sip slowly and savor the classic flavor of this timeless drink. The perfect old-fashioned is a great way to relax and enjoy a classic cocktail. With a few simple ingredients, you can craft a delicious old-fashioned that is sure to please.
Variations on the Old-Fashioned
If you're looking to mix things up a bit, there are plenty of variations on the old-fashioned that you can try. For a twist on the classic, try adding a teaspoon of maple syrup to the drink, or a few drops of absinthe. You can also switch up the type of whiskey to give the drink a different flavor. For a smokier flavor, try using a peated whiskey. For a sweeter flavor, try using a honey whiskey. No matter what variations you choose, you can't go wrong with an old-fashioned.
Conclusion
The perfect old-fashioned is a timeless classic cocktail. With just a few simple ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can craft a delicious drink that is sure to please. Whether you're a novice bartender or an experienced mixologist, learning how to make an old-fashioned is a useful skill that everyone should have. So grab your ingredients, mix up a batch, and enjoy the perfect old-fashioned!