Originally called the Whiskey Cocktail, the Old Fashioned was served up rather than on ice. In the late 19th century, when bartenders began to gussy up the drink, Whiskey Cocktail lovers began asking for the Old Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail. The name stuck.
The process for creating an Old Fashioned is incredibly simple. Cane sugar cubes and aromatic bitters get muddled in a mixing glass. Bourbon is then added, along with a strip of orange zest and ice. After a 15-second stir, the mixture is poured into two rocks glasses containing a large ice cube (the large ice cube allows for the drink to dilute slowly). Add a strip of orange zest, and you're ready to go.
The Old Fashioned
Makes two drinks
- 4 shots bourbon
- 2 cubes cane sugar
- 10 dashes aromatic bitters (we like Hella Cocktail Co. Aromatic Bitters)
- 2 strips of orange zest
- Add the cane sugar cubes and aromatic bitters to a mixing glass. Muddle the ingredients until the sugar has mostly dissolved.
- Add the bourbon and orange zest, as well as ice to above the level of the liquid. Stir for 15 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into rocks glasses containing large cubes of ice, and garnish with remaining orange zest.