As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can guide you through the process of making a classic Old Fashioned cocktail. The Old Fashioned is a timeless drink that originated in the early 19th century and has remained a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts ever since.
To make an Old Fashioned, a bartender follows a few simple steps. Firstly, they gather the necessary ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and an orange peel. The choice of whiskey is crucial, as it sets the foundation for the flavor profile of the cocktail. Some prefer the smoothness of bourbon, while others enjoy the spiciness of rye whiskey. It ultimately comes down to personal preference.
Next, the bartender takes a mixing glass and adds a sugar cube or a small amount of simple syrup. Simple syrup is a mixture of equal parts sugar and water, dissolved together to create a sweetener that easily incorporates into the drink. The use of a sugar cube adds a touch of old-world charm to the preparation process.
After adding the sugar, the bartender dashes a few drops of aromatic bitters onto it. Traditionally, Angostura bitters are used, but some bartenders experiment with different types of bitters to add unique flavors and aromas to the cocktail. The bitters provide a complex and slightly bitter taste that balances out the sweetness of the sugar.
Once the sugar and bitters are combined, the bartender muddles them together. Muddling is the process of gently crushing the sugar and bitters to release their flavors. This step is crucial for extracting the full essence of the ingredients and achieving a well-balanced cocktail.
After muddling, the bartender adds the whiskey to the mixing glass. The amount of whiskey depends on the desired strength of the drink and the size of the glass. Generally, a standard Old Fashioned is made with two ounces of whiskey, but again, this can be adjusted according to personal preference.
Once the whiskey is added, the bartender stirs the mixture with a bar spoon to ensure all the ingredients are thoroughly combined. Stirring also helps to chill the drink without diluting it too much, as opposed to shaking, which is commonly used for other cocktails.
Once the drink is properly stirred, the bartender strains it into an Old Fashioned glass filled with ice. The ice helps to further chill the cocktail and dilutes it slightly, balancing the flavors. Some bartenders prefer using a large ice cube, as it melts more slowly and prevents excessive dilution.
The bartender adds a garnish to the Old Fashioned. Traditionally, this is done by expressing the oils from an orange peel over the drink, which releases its aromatic essence. The peel can then be twisted and dropped into the glass, adding a hint of citrus flavor and visual appeal.
Voila! The Old Fashioned is now ready to be enjoyed. Its simplicity and timeless charm make it a favorite choice for cocktail enthusiasts around the world. Whether sipped slowly at a sophisticated speakeasy or prepared at home for a cozy evening, the Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that never disappoints.