The Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail — it’s the blueprint for nearly every modern mixed drink. Simple, elegant, and spirit-forward, the Old Fashioned has stood the test of time, surviving over a century of cocktail evolution without losing its place on the menu. But how did this legendary drink come to be, and why does it remain so beloved today?

A Drink from the Beginning

The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 19th century, when the word “cocktail” itself was first defined in 1806 as a mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. At the time, that combination was known simply as a “whiskey cocktail.” As bartenders got more creative in the late 1800s, they started adding new ingredients like absinthe, liqueurs, and various garnishes. But not everyone appreciated these experimental concoctions. By the 1880s, patrons who preferred the original version began asking for their drinks to be made “the old-fashioned way.” And so, the Old Fashioned as we know it was born — a back-to-basics blend of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus.

A Revival Worth Toasting

Though the Old Fashioned saw a decline during Prohibition and the sweet, neon-colored cocktail craze of the late 20th century, it experienced a major resurgence in the 2000s. Thanks in part to the rise of craft cocktail bars and pop culture nods (think Don Draper from Mad Men), the Old Fashioned reclaimed its rightful place at the bar. Today, it’s considered a benchmark cocktail — a test of a bartender’s skill and a favorite among whiskey lovers who appreciate bold, balanced flavor.

How to Make a Classic Old Fashioned

The beauty of the Old Fashioned lies in its simplicity. Here’s how to make one the traditional way:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey

• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp simple syrup)

• 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters

• Orange peel (for garnish)

• Ice

Muddle in a rocks glass, place the sugar cube and bitters. Add a few drops of water and gently muddle until the sugar is mostly dissolved. Add Whiskey pour in the bourbon or rye whiskey. Stir add a large ice cube or a few smaller ones, and stir gently for about 20 seconds to chill and dilute slightly. Garnish express an orange peel over the glass to release its oils, then drop it in as garnish. Pro Tip want to elevate your Old Fashioned? Try experimenting with different bitters (like orange or chocolate), or swap the sugar cube for demerara syrup for a richer sweetness.

Final Thoughts

The Old Fashioned is more than a drink — it’s a celebration of craftsmanship, balance, and tradition. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey drinker or just getting into classic cocktails, there’s something undeniably satisfying about sipping a well-made Old Fashioned.

So next time you're at the bar — or behind it — raise your glass to a true original. Cheers!