Don Draper, the iconic character from the television series “Mad Men,” is known for his sophisticated taste in cocktails. His drink of choice is the “old-fashioned,” a classic cocktail that exudes elegance and timeless charm. The traditional recipe calls for bourbon whiskey, muddled bitters, sugar, and a garnish of cherry or citrus peel.
However, Don Draper, being the enigmatic and unconventional character that he is, puts his own twist on this classic cocktail. Instead of using regular bourbon, he opts for rye whiskey, which adds a distinct flavor profile to the drink. Rye whiskey is known for its spiciness and bold character, making it a perfect choice for someone like Don Draper, who always wants to stand out from the crowd.
To make Don's version of the old-fashioned, start by muddling a few dashes of bitters with a sugar cube in an old-fashioned glass. The bitters add a delightful complexity to the cocktail, balancing out the sweetness of the sugar. Don't be afraid to experiment with different types of bitters, as each one can bring its own unique flavor to the mix.
Once the bitters and sugar are muddled together, it's time to add the star of the show – rye whiskey. Pour a generous amount of rye whiskey into the glass, ensuring that it mixes well with the bitters and sugar. The spicy notes of the rye will complement the sweetness of the cocktail, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Now, it's time to add some ice to the glass. Don Draper prefers his old-fashioned with a large ice cube that melts slowly, ensuring that the drink remains perfectly chilled without diluting too quickly. The slow dilution allows the flavors to develop and unfold gradually, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
To finish off the cocktail, garnish it with a cherry or a twist of citrus peel. The cherry adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color, while the citrus peel imparts a subtle hint of citrusy aroma to the drink. Feel free to express your creativity and experiment with different garnishes to make the cocktail truly your own.
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of crafting and enjoying various cocktails throughout my career. The old-fashioned, in all its iterations, holds a special place in my heart. It is a drink that evokes a sense of nostalgia and sophistication, transporting you back to a bygone era of elegance and refinement.
Don Draper's preferred cocktail is an old-fashioned made with rye whiskey instead of regular bourbon. This unique twist adds a bold and spicy character to the drink, perfectly reflecting Don's enigmatic personality. So, why not channel your inner Don Draper and indulge in this classic cocktail? Cheers!