Old Fashioned Cocktail – How to Make the Classic Drink Right Now

If you’ve ever walked into a bar and seen a glass of amber liquid with a citrus twist, you’ve probably met the Old Fashioned. It’s not just another cocktail – it’s the original “keep it simple” drink that has survived for more than a hundred years. In this guide we’ll tell you where it comes from, walk you through a fool‑proof recipe, and share a few tricks that even pros use.

Where Did the Old Fashioned Come From?

Back in the early 1800s people didn’t have fancy cocktail names. They just ordered a “whiskey cocktail” – whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a splash of water. By the 1880s bartenders at the Pendennis Club in Louisville started calling that mix an "Old Fashioned" to let patrons know they wanted the old‑school style. The name stuck, and the drink traveled with travelers, soldiers, and eventually Hollywood stars.

Step‑by‑Step Old Fashioned Recipe

Here’s a basic recipe that works with bourbon or rye. You only need four things: spirit, sugar, bitters, and orange. Grab a lowball glass and follow these steps.

1. Add sugar and bitters. Put one teaspoon of simple syrup (or one sugar cube) into the glass, then add two dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir until the sugar dissolves.

2. Add ice and spirit. Fill the glass with a large ice cube or a handful of smaller cubes. Pour 2 oz of bourbon or rye over the ice.

3. Stir, don’t shake. Give the drink a gentle 20‑second stir. This chills the cocktail and dilutes it just enough to smooth the edges.

4. Finish with garnish. Express an orange peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop the peel in. Some people add a maraschino cherry – that’s optional.

That’s it. No fancy equipment, no extra flavors. You’ll get a balanced sip of sweet, bitter, and spirit every time.

If you like a little extra flavor, try a dash of orange bitters or swap the simple syrup for a touch of honey. But remember: the Old Fashioned shines when it stays simple.

Now that you know the basics, you can experiment with different whiskies, add a splash of smoked water, or even use coffee‑infused bourbon for a twist that fits the Coffee Lounge vibe. The key is to keep the core of sugar, bitters, and citrus while letting the spirit speak.

Next time you’re at home or in a bar, order (or make) an Old Fashioned and taste the history in every sip. It’s a drink that proves good things don’t need a lot of fuss.