Three Ways To Make An Old Fashioned

An Old Fashioned is a classic recipe that every bartender knows how to make. But just because they know how to make it, it doesn’t mean that they are all going to make it the same way. Some bartenders look for the easiest version of the recipe. Others stick to the one they feel is the best tasting, or the most original. Here are three common variations on the Old Fashioned, each with a slightly different flavor profile and made using a slightly different technique. If you like Old Fashioneds, it is worth experimenting with different variations so you can narrow down the options to the one that is your favorite. 

Glassware: Old Fashioned Glass
Method: Muddle

Ingredients
2 oz. Bourbon
2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
1 Sugar Cube
1 Maraschino Cherry
1 Orange Slice
Splash of Water

In an old-fashioned glass add the sugar cube, two dashes of bitters, marachino cherry, orange slice, and a splash of water. Muddle well until the sugar cube is dissolved. Add the bourbon and top with ice. Garnish with a slice of orange and a cherry. In the early 90′s, when I started drinking Old-Fashioneds, this recipe was the norm and is still popular today.

Old Fashioned Recipe 2
2 oz. Bourbon
2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
1 Sugar Cube
Splash of Soda Water

In an old-fashioned glass, add the sugar cube, bitters and splash of soda water and muddle well until the sugar is dissolved. Add the bourbon and fill with ice. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. When I travel to Europe, this recipe seems to be the norm.

Old Fashioned Recipe 3
2 oz. Bourbon
2 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
1 tsp. Simple Syrup
1 Orange Peel

Muddle the orange peel, simple syrup, and the bitters in the bottom of an old-fashioned glass, Add the bourbon, give it s brief stir, and fill with ice.