The Old Fashioned cocktail has been a favorite since the 1800s. Its simple mix of bourbon whiskey, sugar, bitters, and ice is timeless. The premium bourbon you choose can greatly change the drink’s taste.
We’ll explore top craft bourbon, small batch bourbon, and aged bourbon options for your Old Fashioned. We’ll also look at cask strength bourbon, high rye bourbon, and wheated bourbon. These can take your cocktail from good to great.
Key Takeaways
- The Old Fashioned cocktail has a rich history dating back to the 19th century.
- Choosing the right bourbon is crucial for creating the perfect Old Fashioned.
- Experimenting with different bourbons can offer unique flavor profiles and enhance the cocktail experience.
- Bourbon recommendations for Old Fashioned include considerations of flavor profiles like fruity, spicy, oaky, caramel, and more.
- Age and mash bill of the bourbon can significantly impact the flavor and complexity of the Old Fashioned.
Introduction to the Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless classic loved by bourbon fans. It was born in Louisville, Kentucky in the 1880s. The drink honors Colonel James E. Pepper, a big name in bourbon.
This iconic drink blends bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, and bitters. A twist of orange peel or cherry tops it off.
History and Origin of the Classic Drink
The Old Fashioned’s story shows why classic cocktails stay popular. In 1882, the Whiskey Cocktail was one of America’s favorite drinks. It later became the Old Fashioned.
Tom Bullock, an African-American bartender, published a recipe in 1917. By the 1930s, the Old Fashioned was a hit in bars across America.
The Traditional Old Fashioned Recipe
The classic Old Fashioned recipe brings out the spirit’s unique taste. The ingredients typically include:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 2 drops of aromatic bitters
- 1 teaspoon of cherry juice
- Orange peel for aroma and garnish
- Bourbon cherries for garnish
Good ice is key. Slow-melting, round ice cubes slowly dilute the drink. They also keep it cool.
The cocktail is served in a rocks glass. This lets you enjoy all the flavors.
“The Old Fashioned is a timeless classic that celebrates the true essence of bourbon or rye whiskey. It’s a cocktail that has stood the test of time, and continues to be a favorite among discerning drinkers.”
Factors to Consider When Choosing the Best Bourbon
Selecting the right bourbon for an Old Fashioned involves key factors. The proof or alcohol content affects the cocktail’s intensity. High-proof bourbons like Knob Creek and Wild Turkey 101 offer robust, oak-forward flavors.
The bourbon’s flavor profile is also crucial. Bourbons range from spicy to smooth and sweet. Bulleit Bourbon‘s high-rye content adds a spicy kick.
Wheated bourbons like Maker’s Mark provide a softer, balanced taste. These options cater to different preferences in Old Fashioned cocktails.
| Bourbon Characteristic | Impact on Old Fashioned |
|---|---|
| High Proof | Robust, oak-forward character |
| Spicy Flavor Profile | Adds a delightful kick of spice |
| Sweet, Balanced Flavor | Provides a softer, more approachable experience |
Consider the bourbon’s proof and flavor profile when choosing. This helps create an Old Fashioned that suits your taste. Your perfect cocktail awaits with the right bourbon selection.
Review of the Top Bourbon Contenders
The right bourbon is crucial for a perfect Old Fashioned cocktail. Bourbon options range from high-proof to smooth, wheated varieties. Let’s explore top bourbons that shine in this classic drink.
Blanton’s Gold stands out with its smooth flavor and rich caramel notes. For a bolder choice, Blanton’s SFTB offers a cask-strength “flavor bomb” experience.
Elijah Craig Barrel Proof delivers a complex mix of caramel, dark fruits, and vanilla. It’s a symphony of flavors in every sip.
Four Roses Small Batch Limited Edition releases consistently impress whiskey lovers. They offer exceptional quality and varied flavor profiles.
The highly coveted Pappy Van Winkle 15 is known for its refined and mature character. It’s a top choice for bourbon enthusiasts.
| Bourbon Brand | Ranking | Key Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Evan Williams | 27th | Affordable and versatile |
| Benchmark | 26th | Smooth and balanced |
| New Riff | 25th | Complex and nuanced |
| Maker’s Mark | 24th | Smooth and approachable |
| Penelope | 23rd | Unique and innovative |
This review covers premium bourbon, craft bourbon, and options in between. It aims to help you find the perfect bourbon for your Old Fashioned.
High-Proof Bourbons for a Bold Old Fashioned
High-proof bourbons create a bold and robust Old Fashioned. These spirits deliver intense, complex flavors that elevate the classic cocktail. Experts suggest using bourbons at 100 proof or higher for a memorable drink.
Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon
Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon offers a full-bodied character with oak-forward notes. It creates a powerful yet balanced Old Fashioned. This high-proof bourbon showcases spicy and caramelized undertones in the cocktail.
Wild Turkey 101
Wild Turkey 101 brings nuttiness and spice to an Old Fashioned. Its bold personality shines through in the drink. This bourbon delivers a smooth, satisfying sip with lingering flavors.
Women often prefer high-proof bourbons for their Old Fashioned cocktails. Their larger olfactory bulbs help detect complex aromas and flavors. This allows them to appreciate these robust spirits fully.
| Bourbon | Proof | Tasting Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Knob Creek Small Batch | 100 | Oak, caramel, spice |
| Wild Turkey 101 | 101 | Nutty, spicy, smooth |
| Buffalo Trace Stagg Jr. | 127.5 | Rich, intense, complex |
| Old Forester 1920 Prohibition Style | 115 | Bold, layered, intense |
High-proof bourbons like Knob Creek and Wild Turkey 101 make exceptional Old Fashioneds. They deliver a robust and satisfying cocktail experience. These choices are perfect for those seeking bold flavors.
Rye-Forward Bourbons for a Spicy Kick
Rye-forward bourbons offer a unique twist to the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. These bourbons have a bold, peppery profile that complements the drink’s sweetness. Bulleit Bourbon, a Kentucky-crafted spirit, stands out with its robust rye influence.
Bulleit Bourbon’s high rye content of 28% adds depth to the Old Fashioned. Its bold pepper and oak notes create a captivating, multi-layered cocktail. The rye-forward character balances perfectly with the sugar and bitters.
For a spicy old fashioned with a unique twist, try Bulleit Bourbon. Its distinctive flavor elevates the cocktail into a sophisticated experience. This rye bourbon will delight your senses with its complex taste profile.
Complex Bourbons for a Layered Experience
Complex bourbons with deep flavors make for sophisticated Old Fashioneds. These bourbons bring unique twists to the classic cocktail.
Four Roses Single Barrel
This bourbon has a diverse flavor profile. It features notes of fruit, spice, and floral undertones. These qualities make it perfect for an elevated Old Fashioned.
Buffalo Trace
Buffalo Trace offers a well-balanced character. It blends brown sugar, vanilla, and oak flavors. This bourbon integrates seamlessly into the Old Fashioned.
Four Roses Single Barrel Bourbon is known for its bold taste. It’s aged for at least five years in charred American oak barrels. This process results in a rich, concentrated flavor.
The bourbon uses a mix of corn, rye, and malted barley. This blend creates a balance of fruity, spicy, and floral notes. These flavors add depth to the classic cocktail.
Buffalo Trace Bourbon has a balanced character. It uses corn, rye, and malted barley in its mash bill. The result is a blend of brown sugar, vanilla, and oak flavors.
This bourbon has a medium body and moderate proof. It’s versatile and approachable, perfect for a complex Old Fashioned.
| Bourbon | Flavor Profile | Aging Process | Proof |
|---|---|---|---|
| Four Roses Single Barrel | Fruit, spice, floral | Minimum 5 years in charred oak | 100 proof (50% ABV) |
| Buffalo Trace | Brown sugar, vanilla, oak | Undisclosed aging process | 90 proof (45% ABV) |
“Complex bourbons with a depth of flavors can elevate the Old Fashioned to new heights, offering a sophisticated and nuanced drinking experience.”
best bourbon for old fashioned
Choosing the right bourbon is crucial for a perfect Old Fashioned cocktail. The best bourbon for old fashioned should balance flavors and complement other ingredients. Let’s explore top contenders that can elevate this classic drink.
For a bold Old Fashioned, try Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon or Wild Turkey 101. These high-proof options deliver robust, full-bodied character. Their warm, spicy notes create a memorable drinking experience.
Prefer a nuanced Old Fashioned? Consider Four Roses Single Barrel or Buffalo Trace. These complex bourbons offer balanced sweet, spicy, and fruity flavors. Their smooth, silky texture provides a refined sip.
Want a unique twist? Bulleit Bourbon is an excellent rye-forward choice. Its pronounced spice and peppery notes add intrigue to the classic cocktail.
The best bourbon for old fashioned depends on your taste preferences. Choose bold, high-proof options or nuanced, complex expressions for an exceptional drink.
“Elijah Craig Small Batch is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned. Its rich, full-bodied character and warm spice notes really shine in this classic cocktail.” – Vay Su, Bartender and Mixologist
Wheated Bourbons for a Smooth Sip
Wheated bourbons offer a smooth, easy-drinking Old Fashioned. Maker’s Mark, with its red wax-dipped bottle, is a prime example. It imparts a subtle sweetness to the cocktail.
The wheat-forward mash bill creates mellow vanilla and caramel notes. This results in a well-balanced Old Fashioned. Wheated bourbons have a creamy mouthfeel and a lighter sweetness.
Pappy Van Winkle introduced wheat as the secondary grain in bourbon. He chose it because it allowed faster maturation. This made wheated bourbons popular for smooth Old Fashioned cocktails.
“Wheated bourbons start becoming more enjoyable after around 7 years, with a peak at 12 years, and they can still be outstanding whiskey towards 20 years.”
Maker’s Mark is the most well-known wheated bourbon. Other notable labels include Larceny, Old Fitzgerald, Rebel Yell, and Weller. Some aged wheated bourbons are hard to find due to high demand.
Maker’s Mark is a great starting point for wheated bourbon exploration. Its smooth profile makes for a satisfying Old Fashioned. Try it for a leisurely and enjoyable sipping experience.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bourbon is key for a perfect Old Fashioned cocktail. High-proof bourbons offer bold flavors, while wheated options provide smooth balance. Understanding proof, flavor, and complexity helps elevate your cocktail game.
Bulleit offers a spicy kick, Four Roses Single Barrel brings complexity, and Maker’s Mark provides smoothness. These best bourbons for old fashioned cater to diverse tastes. Explore different options to find your favorite.
The Old Fashioned’s charm lies in its perfect bourbon pairing. It brings sophistication to your drinking experience. Enjoy crafting this timeless cocktail with your chosen bourbon.
FAQ
What are the key factors to consider when choosing the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned cocktail?
Three key factors matter when picking bourbon for an Old Fashioned. These include the alcohol content or proof. The flavor profile is also important. Finally, consider the overall complexity of flavors.
What are some examples of high-proof bourbons that work well in an Old Fashioned?
Knob Creek Small Batch Bourbon is a great high-proof option. Wild Turkey 101 also works well. These bourbons add boldness to an Old Fashioned cocktail.
How do rye-forward bourbons differ from other bourbons in an Old Fashioned?
Rye-forward bourbons, like Bulleit Bourbon, add a spicy kick. They balance the sweetness of an Old Fashioned. This creates a more complex and interesting drink.
What are some examples of complex, layered bourbons that can elevate the Old Fashioned experience?
Four Roses Single Barrel offers depth and complexity. Buffalo Trace is another great choice. These bourbons bring fruit, spice, vanilla, and oak flavors. They create a sophisticated Old Fashioned cocktail.
How do wheated bourbons perform in an Old Fashioned?
Wheated bourbons, like Maker’s Mark, bring smoothness to an Old Fashioned. They add a subtle sweetness. This results in an approachable and easy-drinking cocktail experience.