There may not be a more American cocktail than the Old Fashioned. Simple in its ingredients, artful in its creation, and deliciously nuanced in its taste. If there were a Mt. Rushmore for cocktails this would certainly be on it. (What are the rest? That's an article for another time.)
According to William Grimes' book "Straight Up or On the Rocks: The Story of the American Cocktail," the old fashioned dates back to the 19th century and should continue to hold a special place in the modern world of mixology. Its simplicity and reliance on quality ingredients can truly showcase a bartender's craftsmanship.
Why do renown culinary experts, such as Alton Brown, consider this classic cocktail as a litmus test of a bartender's abilities. Food Republic helps explain:
Made with just a few ingredients — whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus — the old fashioned may seem like a straightforward drink, but its true mastery lies in the subtle intricacies of its preparation. When ordering an old fashioned, one can gauge a bartender's skill in several key areas.
...a talented bartender can showcase their adaptability and attentiveness to the customer's taste by making subtle cocktail ingredient adjustments based on careful conversation as well as instinct.
Typically made with Bourbon, Rye, or other whiskey is a perfectly acceptable substitute. But if you want to start out making "the classic" you'll want to use bourbon. No need to go crazy with the quality or rarity of the bourbon though. A good mid-level brand will be good.
Ingredients
1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
2 dashes bitters *see note
1 strip orange zest
2 ounces whiskey
1 brandied cherry, optional
Orange Swirl )and/or Cocktail Cherry)
Ice Cubes
Directions
Muddle together the sugar, bitters and orange zest in the bottom of an old fashioned glass.
Add Bourbon, Rye, or Whiskey (and the cherry, if using.)
Add Ice Cubes.
Stir with cocktail spoon
*Angostura is probably the most common bitters. And it's a perfectly fine addition. But the world of bitters is broad and varied. Shop around, look for some interesting flavors or styles, and don't be afraid to experiment.
The majority of folks tend to skip the cherries. I prefer to include them. And Luxardo brand is King of the Mountain IMHO. Cherry sweet, not sugary sweet like most of the unnaturally red ones that you're probably accustomed to seeing.
There you have it. It's Friday. Get ready for the weekend and pour yourself a delicious Old Fashioned and enjoy!!
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