The Old Fashioned

Recipe, Versions, and a Little Background

The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that can definitely be considered timeless. It has a simple but balanced flavor profile that hits the spot.

Its origins can be traced back to the 19th century, and its popularity has only grown stronger over time. This classic drink is a testament to nuance in mixology, and creating the perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and strong makes this classic shine.

The Classic is a Masterpiece

The classic Old Fashioned is a straightforward yet exquisite drink, and typically consists of just a few key ingredients — your preferred recipe may vary:

Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces Bourbon or Whiskey
  • 3-4 drops Angostura Bitters
  • Sugar cube
  • Orange twist

Steps

  • Muddle a sugar cube in an old-fashioned glass with a 3-4 dashes of Angostura bitters
  • Add your chosen bourbon or whiskey
  • Fill the glass with ice, we like larger cubes that dissolve slowly
  • Stir gently to chill and combine flavors.
  • Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink and drop it in

Other Versions

We love the classic Old Fashioned, but as we do, people experiment and create their own versions. Many variations have emerged over the years, and although we can’t list all of them, here are a few that may get you thinking.

Smoky Old Fashioned

Adding a smoky flavor with mezcal or smoked whiskey. A Mezcal version can use more Mezcal than bourbon or whiskey. The Zapatero is one we’ve seen. Although not on our Signature Cocktails menu, we serve a version.

Maple Old Fashioned

This uses maple syrup instead of sugar for a sweeter, more caramelized flavor. Sugar Lounge currently does not serve Maple Old Fashioned.

Spiced Old Fashioned

With aromatic spices like cinnamon or cardamom, it sounds like a Holiday cocktail unless you opt for Fresno, Chile, to get your spice on. This is another version that we don’t serve.

These are just a few of the hundreds of variations. The possibilities are endless, and experimentation is encouraged.

Sugar Lounge Signature Forester Old Fashioned

Sugar Lounge Signature Cocktail - Forrester Old Fashioned

Our Forester Old Fashioned Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces Old Forester Bourbon
  • 3-4 drops Angostura Bitters
  • Raw sugar cube
  • Orange slice
  • Maraschino cherry or substitute

Steps

  • Muddle the raw sugar cube and cherry in an old-fashioned glass with a 3-4 dashes of Angostura bitters
  • Add your chosen Old Forester bourbon
  • Fill the glass with ice, we like larger cubes that dissolve slowly
  • Stir gently to chill and combine flavors.
  • Drop the orange slice in the drink