When it comes to making a classic Old Fashioned, the choice of bourbon is crucial. The right bourbon can complement and enhance the flavors of the other ingredients, resulting in a well-balanced and delicious cocktail. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of trying many different bourbons in an Old Fashioned, and I can confidently say that there are several excellent options to consider.
1. Buffalo Trace: Buffalo Trace is a popular choice for an Old Fashioned due to its smooth and mellow flavor profile. It has hints of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of spice, which pair beautifully with the sweetness and bitters in the cocktail. This bourbon provides a solid foundation for a classic Old Fashioned.
2. Four Roses Single Barrel: For those looking for a more complex and robust Old Fashioned, Four Roses Single Barrel is a fantastic choice. This bourbon offers a rich and full-bodied flavor with notes of ripe fruits, caramel, and a touch of oak. It adds depth and character to the cocktail, making it a standout choice.
3. Knob Creek Small Batch: Knob Creek Small Batch is known for its bold and robust flavor profile, which makes it an excellent bourbon for an Old Fashioned. With its notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of smokiness, it adds a depth of flavor that pairs well with the sweetness and bitters in the cocktail. This bourbon brings a satisfying richness to the drink.
4. Woodford Reserve: Woodford Reserve is a versatile bourbon that works well in many different cocktails, including the Old Fashioned. It offers a balanced and smooth flavor profile with hints of vanilla, toffee, and spice. This bourbon brings a touch of elegance and sophistication to the cocktail, making it a great choice for those who appreciate a refined Old Fashioned.
5. Maker's Mark 46: Maker's Mark 46 is a bourbon that has gained a reputation for its unique aging process, which involves the addition of seared French oak staves. This process imparts a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices. In an Old Fashioned, Maker's Mark 46 adds a depth of flavor that is sure to impress.
6. Wild Turkey 101: If you prefer a bolder and more robust Old Fashioned, Wild Turkey 101 is an excellent choice. With its high proof and rich flavor profile, this bourbon packs a punch. It has notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice, which stand up well to the other ingredients in the cocktail. Wild Turkey 101 creates a bold and flavorful Old Fashioned that is sure to satisfy.
7. Bulleit Bourbon: Bulleit Bourbon is known for its high rye content, which lends it a spicier flavor profile compared to other bourbons. This spiciness adds a unique twist to an Old Fashioned, creating a cocktail with a little extra kick. With its notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, Bulleit Bourbon adds complexity and depth to the cocktail.
There are many excellent bourbons to choose from when making an Old Fashioned. Whether you prefer a smooth and mellow flavor or a bold and robust profile, there is a bourbon out there to suit your taste. I encourage you to try different options and experiment to find your favorite. Cheers!