As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of exploring various whiskies and experimenting with different ingredients to create the perfect Old Fashioned cocktail. While there are many great whiskies that can be used in an Old Fashioned, I have found that rye whiskey tends to be the best choice.
Rye whiskey is known for its bold and robust flavors, with a spiciness that adds depth and complexity to cocktails. This spiciness is a perfect complement to the bitters and sweet components of an Old Fashioned, creating a well-balanced and flavorful drink.
One rye whiskey that I highly recommend for an Old Fashioned is Bare Knuckle Straight Wheat Whiskey. This particular whiskey has a smooth and velvety texture, with notes of vanilla, caramel, and baking spices. The wheat content in this whiskey adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.
Another great option for an Old Fashioned is Old Hamer Straight Rye. This rye whiskey has a rich and full-bodied flavor profile, with notes of cinnamon, clove, and orange peel. The strong spiciness of this whiskey adds a wonderful kick to the cocktail, while still allowing the other ingredients to shine.
When making an Old Fashioned, it's important to choose a whiskey that can hold its own against the other flavors in the drink. Rye whiskey tends to do this exceptionally well, as its bold flavors can stand up to the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the bitters.
In terms of personal experiences, I have had the pleasure of enjoying many Old Fashioned cocktails made with rye whiskey. Each time, I am amazed at how the whiskey enhances the overall flavor profile of the drink. The spiciness and depth of the rye whiskey truly bring the cocktail to life, creating a memorable and enjoyable drinking experience.
When it comes to making an Old Fashioned, rye whiskey is the way to go. Its strength and spiced notes add a unique and delightful dimension to the cocktail. Whether you choose Bare Knuckle Straight Wheat Whiskey or Old Hamer Straight Rye, you can't go wrong with rye whiskey in an Old Fashioned. Cheers!