Old fashioned (cocktail)
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. Known for its simplicity and timeless appeal, the Old Fashioned is made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus rind. This article will provide a detailed description of the history, ingredients, preparation, variations, and cultural significance of this iconic drink.
History[edit | edit source]
The Old Fashioned has a rich history that can be traced back to the early 19th century. It is believed to have originated in Louisville, Kentucky, where it was first served at the Pendennis Club, a private social club. The cocktail was later popularized in New York City at the famed Waldorf-Astoria Hotel 1.
Early Beginnings[edit | edit source]
The Old Fashioned is considered one of the earliest cocktail recipes, with its origins dating back to the "whiskey cocktail" of the 1800s. This simple concoction featured a blend of sugar, bitters, and whiskey, which would later evolve into the Old Fashioned we know today 2.
Ingredients[edit | edit source]
The classic Old Fashioned is made with the following ingredients:
- 2 oz (60 ml) whiskey (typically bourbon or rye)
- 1 sugar cube or 1/2 tsp sugar
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange or lemon twist for garnish
- Maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)
Preparation[edit | edit source]
- To prepare an Old Fashioned, follow these steps:
- Place the sugar cube or sugar in an Old Fashioned glass.
- Add the bitters and a splash of water, then muddle to dissolve the sugar.
- Add a large ice cube or several small cubes to the glass.
- Pour the whiskey over the ice and stir gently.
- Express the citrus twist over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a good twist to release the oils. Rub the twist around the rim of the glass and then drop it in.
- Optionally, garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Variations[edit | edit source]
Over the years, several variations of the Old Fashioned have emerged, adapting to different tastes and preferences. Some popular variations include:
- Wisconsin Old Fashioned: A regional twist that uses brandy instead of whiskey and is typically topped with lemon-lime soda, club soda, or sweet soda 3.
- Rum Old Fashioned: A version that substitutes the whiskey with aged rum, offering a more tropical and complex flavor profile.
- Tequila Old Fashioned: This variation replaces whiskey with tequila, creating a unique spin on the classic recipe.
- New Fashioned: A contemporary take on the Old Fashioned, adding muddled fruits, such as orange slices and cherries, to the mix.
Cultural Significance[edit | edit source]
The Old Fashioned has experienced a resurgence in recent years, thanks in part to the popular television series Mad Men, where it was a favorite drink of the main character, Don Draper [^4^]. The cocktail has become synonymous with sophistication, and its timeless appeal continues to captivate new generations of cocktail enthusiasts.
References[edit | edit source]
- Footnotes: Simonson, R. (2014). The Old-Fashioned: The Story of the World's First Classic Cocktail, with Recipes and Lore. Ten Speed Press. Wondrich, D. (2015). Imbibe! Updated and Revised Edition: From Absinthe Cocktail to Whiskey Smash, a Salute in Stories and Drinks to "Professor" Jerry Thomas, Pioneer of the American Bar. Perigee Books. Hess, R. (2008). The Essential Bartender's Guide: Your Complete Guide to Cocktails, Martinis, Mixed Drinks, and More! Clarkson Potter.
See Also[edit | edit source]
External Links[edit | edit source]
- Liquor.com: Old Fashioned Recipe
- Difford's Guide: Old Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail
- Cocktail Chemistry Lab: Old Fashioned
- Need help finding a doctor or specialist anywhere in the world? WikiMD's DocFinder can help with millions of doctors!
This article is a stub. Help WikiMD grow by registering to expand it. |
Navigation: Wellness - Encyclopedia - Health topics - Disease Index - Drugs - World Directory - Gray's Anatomy - Keto diet - Recipes
Search WikiMD
Ad.Tired of being Overweight? Try W8MD's physician weight loss program.
Semaglutide (Ozempic / Wegovy and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro) available.
Advertise on WikiMD
WikiMD is not a substitute for professional medical advice. See full disclaimer.
Credits:Most images are courtesy of Wikimedia commons, and templates Wikipedia, licensed under CC BY SA or similar.Contributors: Prab R. Tumpati, MD