Bourbon Old Fashioned

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There’s just something about a Bourbon Old Fashioned that feels like a little slice of history in every sip. It’s one of those classic whiskey cocktails that you can imagine being stirred up in a cozy corner of a Texas saloon, or maybe on the back porch of a Louisiana home as the sun sets and the cicadas start their evening song. 

It’s simple, straightforward, and full of flavor—and when made just right, it’s an absolute showstopper. But what really makes it special is how it connects us to the past, to the days when cocktails were crafted with care and meant to be savored.

The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s, born out of the desire to enjoy whiskey in its purest, most authentic form. It wasn’t about fancy mixers or over-the-top ingredients—just whiskey, sugar, and bitters, stirred together and served with a twist of citrus. 

This classic drink quickly gained popularity in gentlemen’s clubs across the country, especially in Kentucky, where bourbon whiskey reigns supreme. It’s easy to see why it stuck around—it’s a drink that’s as timeless as it is tasty.

Ingredients for the Perfect Bourbon Old Fashioned

To make an Old Fashioned just right, you need to start with the right ingredients. Each one plays a role in balancing the flavors and creating that perfect sip.

• Bourbon: The star of the show! Bourbon gives the Old Fashioned its warm, rich backbone. Whether you go for something smooth like Buffalo Trace or something with a little more kick like Knob Creek, bourbon adds depth and character to the drink. Plus, bourbon’s Southern roots, especially in Kentucky, bring a bit of history to every glass.
• Demerara Syrup or Demerara Sugar Cube: Traditionally, an Old Fashioned uses a sugar cube, which gives the drink a richer, more complex sweetness that pairs perfectly with the bourbon. Plus, they dissolve quicker, which is always a plus when you’re ready for that first sip.
• Orange Bitters: Just a couple dashes of bitters are all you need to round out the flavors. I like using orange bitters because they add a bright, zesty note that balances out the richness of the bourbon and sugar. Angostura bitters work great too, but there’s something about the citrus punch from orange bitters that I just love.
• Maraschino Cherries or Luxardo Cherry: I know maraschino cherries have their place in the world of cocktails, but if you can get your hands on a Luxardo cherry, it’ll change the way you think about garnishes. They’re dark, sweet, and just a little bit decadent. If you can’t find Luxardo, the maraschino cherry still does the job.
• Orange Twist: The citrus oil from a twist of orange peel is a must. They give the drink a bright, aromatic finish that ties everything together. Be sure to twist it over the glass to release those oils—it’s a small step, but it makes a big difference.

What You’ll Need to Make It

Before you start stirring, make sure you’ve got the right tools on hand:

• Mixing Glass: You’ll want a sturdy glass with enough room to stir your ingredients and ice.
• Bar Spoon: A long-handled spoon lets you stir gently without over-diluting the drink.
• Rocks Glass: This is the classic glass for serving an Old Fashioned. It’s wide enough to hold that large ice cube and gives the drink room to breathe.
• Ice Spheres: I’m a big fan of using large ice spheres for this cocktail. They melt slower than regular ice cubes, keeping your drink cold without watering it down. You can make them at home with a special mold, and they really take your cocktail game up a notch.

How to Make the Best Old Fashioned

Now that you’ve got everything ready, let’s put it all together. Making an Old Fashioned isn’t difficult, but it does require a little patience and care. Here’s how I do it:

1. Start with the sugar: If you’re using a demerara sugar cube, drop it into your mixing glass and a few dashes of bitters. Use a muddler to crush the sugar until it’s fully dissolved. If you’re going with demerara syrup or brown sugar, just add that directly to the glass.
2. Add the bourbon: Pour in two ounces of bourbon and give it a good stir with your bar spoon. You want the sugar and bourbon to mix together nicely before you add the ice.
3. Stir with ice: Add a large scoop of ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds. You’re not trying to shake it up—just chill the drink and mix the flavors.
4. Add a large ice sphere or cube to the glass and strain your old-fashioned into the ice-filled glass.
5. Garnish: Twist a strip of orange peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop it in. If you like, you can add a cherry or two for a little extra sweetness.

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Chef Secrets for a Perfect Old Fashioned

• The Sweetness Factor: I love Demerara sugar cubes. The molasses in the sugar brings out the caramel and vanilla notes in the bourbon, making for a richer drink. If you don't have these, you can substitute them with brown sugar.
• Take Your Time Stirring: This is one drink you don’t want to rush. Stirring slowly helps the flavors meld together while keeping the drink cool. You’ll know it’s ready when the sugar is fully dissolved, and the bourbon is chilled but not watered down.
• Clear Ice Makes a Difference: If you’ve never tried using clear ice, now’s the time. It melts slower than regular ice cubes, which means your drink stays cold and strong. Plus, it looks pretty fancy!

How to Serve Your Old Fashioned

An Old Fashioned is wonderful on its own, but if you’re looking to elevate the experience, try serving it with:

• Smoked Meats: A Texas-style brisket or smoked ribs pair beautifully with the bourbon’s smoky, caramel flavors.
• Cheese Plate: Sharp Irish cheddar, blue cheese, and salted marcona almonds make a great accompaniment to this cocktail.
• Dark Chocolate: A small piece of dark chocolate enhances the drink’s richness without overwhelming it.

Common Questions About the Old Fashioned

Can I make a brandy Old Fashioned instead of bourbon?
Absolutely! A brandy Old Fashioned is a popular variation, especially in Wisconsin. It’s a little sweeter and fruitier than the bourbon version, but just as delicious.

Can I add club soda to my Old Fashioned?
While some folks like to add a splash of club soda, the traditional recipe doesn’t include it. If you prefer a lighter drink, go for it—but I like to keep mine classic.

What’s the difference between an Old Fashioned and a Manhattan?
Both are whiskey-based cocktails, but a Manhattan includes sweet vermouth, which gives it a more complex, wine-like flavor compared to the simplicity of an Old Fashioned.

Storing & Make-Ahead Tips

You can make the base ahead of time. Mix the bourbon, sugar, and bitters in advance, then store it in the fridge for up to 24 hours. 

When you’re ready to serve, just add ice and garnish. It’s the perfect solution for when you’re hosting a crowd and want to save time without sacrificing quality.

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Whether you’re sitting on a porch watching the Texas sunset or enjoying a quiet night at home, this classic Old Fashioned cocktail is sure to become a go-to favorite. Cheers!

More Classic Cocktail Recipes

• The Classic French Martini
• The Godfather
• Moscow Mule
• Whiskey Sour