Old Fashioned: More Than a Drink, a Journey to the Essence of Good Taste

The Origin of a Timeless Classic

The Old Fashioned it is much more than just a cocktail; it is a journey through the history of mixology. Its origins date back to the early NINETEENTH century, when the first bars americans began to experiment with the combination of distillates, sugar and bitters. It is said that this drink was born in the Pendennis Club of Louisville, Kentucky, where a bartender was prepared in honor of a distinguished customer. The recipe was brought to the famous Waldorf-Astoria hotel in New York city, where he gained popularity and became the standard of refinement in the cocktail bar.

Your name, Old Fashioned, is a tribute to the first cocktail of the story, when the drinks are prepared in a simple way, without adornments or excesses. Despite the evolution of the cocktail, this cocktail has stood the test of time, being a preferred option in bars all over the world. It is a drink that exudes sophistication, ideal for those who seek an authentic experience without distractions.

Benefits of Enjoying an Old Fashioned

Although the Old Fashioned it is a cocktail of alcohol and should be enjoyed in moderation, it presents some interesting advantages. The whisky, its main ingredient, contains antioxidants from the aging in oak barrels, which may help to reduce oxidative stress in the body. Additionally, your free preparation of syrups and artificial mixers sweetened makes it a healthier option compared with cocktails more elaborate and caloric intake.

Recipe for Old Fashioned

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1 sugar cube or 1 teaspoon of sugar
• 2-3 drops of bitters angostura
• Water – a few drops or a stream's small (optional), to dissolve the sugar).
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel (optional, for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry (optional, for garnish)

Preparation:

1. Place the sugar cube in a glass of Old Fashioned, and add drops of bitters angostura along with a few drops of water to dissolve the sugar.
2. With the help of a spoon or a muddler, mixing until you get a liquid foundation and uniform.
3. Add the whiskey and stir gently.
4. Add ice into large cubes and re-mix.
5. If desired, squeeze a slight orange peel over the drink to release its essential oils and put it in the glass as decoration.
6. Optionally, you can add a maraschino cherry.
7. Serve and enjoy slowly.

Nutritional information per Serving:

• Calories: 150-180 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 3-5 g
• Sugars: 3-4 g
• Alcohol: 14-15 g
• Fat: 0 g

Variations of the Old Fashioned

Although the classic version of the Old Fashioned remains the favorite, there are many ways to give an interesting twist:

1. Smoky Old Fashioned

For lovers of the flavors smoked, you can substitute bourbon for a good scottish whisky smoked or add a pinch of salt smoked to enhance its character.

2. Maple Old Fashioned

Replace the sugar with a small amount of maple syrup for a sweet touch, and with notes and caramelized.

3. Rum Old Fashioned

Use aged rum in place of whiskey and added a bit of orange liqueur for a more tropical and complex.

4. Spiced Old Fashioned

Incorporate a touch of cinnamon or clove for a spin spicy perfect for the winter.

Tips for an Old Fashioned Perfect

To prepare the Old Fashioned ideally, follow these key tips:

• Use a good whiskey: The base of the cocktail is whiskey, so opt for one of quality. If you prefer the drink sweeter, choose bourbon; if you prefer something more spicy and dry, the rye whiskey is the best option.
• Go easy on the sugar: A good Old Fashioned should not be too sweet. The key is in the balance between the sugar, bitters and whiskey.
• Ice large and solid: Use cubes of large ice to keep the drink is diluted too quickly.
• Stir, do not shake: This cocktail should be mixed gently to maintain its silky texture, and balanced.
• Experience with bitter: While the bitters angostura is the standard, you can try bitter orange, chocolate, or even lavender for a special touch.

Curiosities of the Old Fashioned

• It is considered the first cocktail of the story, based on the original definition of the word "cocktail" in 1806.
• It has been the favourite drink of historical figures such as president Harry S. Truman and the writer Dorothy Parker.
• In 2015, the city of Louisville, Kentucky, declared it to your cocktail party official, reinforcing its connection with the bourbon and american culture.
• It is one of the cocktails more orders in the bars of the world, showing that elegance never goes out of fashion.

Conclusion: A Toast to the Classic Elegance

The Old Fashioned not only is it a cocktail, it is a symbol of sophistication and simplicity. Its perfect combination of whiskey, sugar and bitters demonstrates that, sometimes, less is more. Whether you enjoy it at home, in a bar or luxurious as you see a series iconic, this drink is an invitation to savor every moment with ease and style.

Now that you know your history, your recipe and its variations, are you interested to make your own Old Fashioned? Let us know your experience in the comments and share this recipe with lovers of the cocktail!