Old Fashioned
The cocktail that’s as classic as your grandpa’s stories, as timeless as your grandma’s knitting and as lasting as their advice.
And there you have it, the Old Fashioned Cocktail! A drink that’s a dapper gentleman at a party full of flashy drinks, confidently sticking to his classic style with bourbon swagger, a hint of sweetness, and a twist of citrus, making every sip a timeless tale of good taste and charm. Cheers!
Ingredients
2 oz Bourbon or Rye whiskey
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
1 Sugar cube
Splash of water
Suggested Garnish: Orange Twist and/or Cherry
Suggested Glass: Rocks Glass
Muddle the sugar cube with bitters and water in a glass.
Add whiskey and ice, stir well. Garnish with orange twist and/or cherry.
Revelations:
The history and origin of the Bloody Mary are as colorful as the cocktail itself. While the exact details are debated, one popular theory credits Fernand Petiot, a bartender at Harry’s New York Bar in Paris during the 1920s, with its creation. Legend has it that Petiot mixed vodka with tomato juice and spices, naming it after Queen Mary I of England, known for her bloody reign. Another version attributes the drink’s invention to the St. Regis Hotel in New York City in the 1930s. Regardless of its precise origins, the Bloody Mary’s popularity grew steadily, becoming an iconic brunch cocktail celebrated for its bold flavors and alleged hangover-curing properties.
Interesting facts
While vodka is a key ingredient in the Bloody Mary today, the original recipe likely used gin.
Different countries put their spin on the Bloody Mary, resulting in variations like the “Bloody Caesar” in Canada (made with clamato juice), the “Michelada” in Mexico (includes beer), and the “Red Snapper” in Japan (uses gin instead of vodka).
Revelations:
The Old Fashioned cocktail has a rich and storied history that dates back to the early 19th century, making it one of the oldest known cocktails still enjoyed today. It’s origins can be traced to the early 1800s, when it was simply known as the “Whiskey Cocktail.” Over time, the cocktail evolved, and by the late 19th century, bartenders began referring to it as the “Old Fashioned” to distinguish it from newer, more elaborate cocktail creations.
The Old Fashioned Cocktail’s enduring legacy is a testament to its simple yet elegant charm, making it a favorite among cocktail connoisseurs and casual drinkers alike.
Interesting facts
The Old Fashioned was originally called the “Whiskey Grandpa,” but they changed the name because nobody wanted to order a drink that sounded like it came with suspenders and a rocking chair.
The Old Fashioned experienced a resurgence in popularity in the 21st century, partly due to its frequent appearance in the TV series “Mad Men.” The character Don Draper’s fondness for the cocktail added to its allure.
