A Brandy Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that is made with a few simple ingredients. The traditional recipe calls for bitters, orange slices, cherries, sugar cube, brandy, and a mixer such as 7UP, Sprite, or club soda. Let's break down each component and explore their role in creating this delicious drink.
1. Bitters: Bitters are aromatic extracts made from a variety of herbs, spices, and fruits. They add a complex and slightly bitter flavor to cocktails, balancing out the sweetness of the other ingredients. Angostura bitters are commonly used in Old Fashioned cocktails, but you can experiment with different types to find your preferred taste.
2. Orange slices: Fresh orange slices are muddled with the other ingredients to release their juices and essential oils. This adds a citrusy brightness to the drink, complementing the rich flavors of the brandy.
3. Cherries: Maraschino cherries are often used in Old Fashioned cocktails. They provide a touch of sweetness and contribute to the overall flavor profile. You can also use fresh cherries, but make sure to remove the pits before muddling them.
4. Sugar cube: The sugar cube acts as a sweetener in the cocktail. As you muddle it with the other ingredients, it dissolves and helps to balance the flavors. You can adjust the amount of sugar depending on your preference for sweetness.
5. Brandy: Brandy is the key spirit in a Brandy Old Fashioned. It is a spirit made by distilling wine or fermented fruit juices. Brandy adds depth and warmth to the cocktail, enhancing its overall character. Choose a brandy that you enjoy drinking on its own, as it will greatly influence the final taste of the cocktail.
6. Mixer: The choice of mixer for a Brandy Old Fashioned is a matter of personal preference. Some people prefer the fizziness of 7UP or Sprite, while others opt for the simplicity of club soda. These mixers help to dilute the cocktail slightly and add a refreshing effervescence.
To make a Brandy Old Fashioned, start by adding the bitters, orange slices, cherries, and sugar cube to an Old Fashioned glass. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle the ingredients, releasing their flavors. Then, fill the glass with ice. This helps to chill the cocktail and dilute it slightly.
Next, pour the desired amount of brandy into the glass. The amount can vary depending on your preference and the size of the glass. Stir the ingredients together to ensure they are well combined.
Finally, top off the glass with your chosen mixer, be it 7UP, Sprite, or club soda. Stir gently once more to mix everything together and chill the drink further.
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy the delightful combination of flavors in your Brandy Old Fashioned. Cheers!