The Old Fashioned cocktail RECIPE AT THE END is a classic that has been around since the 1800s, and it's still just as delicious today as it was back then. It's a timeless classic that everyone should try at least once in their life! This cocktail is made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and an orange peel. It's strong but smooth, sweet but balanced - the perfect combination of flavors for any occasion. Whether you're looking for something to sip on during happy hour or toasting to a special occasion, the Old Fashioned is sure to please. Lets learn a little about this classic cocktail.
The Origins of the Old Fashioned
The earliest version of the Old Fashioned was just a simple mixture of whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. This combination was known as a "whiskey cocktail," and it was a popular drink in the early 19th century. As the cocktail culture grew, bartenders began to experiment with different ingredients and techniques, and the whiskey cocktail began to evolve.
In the 1860s, a new version of the whiskey cocktail emerged. It was made by muddling a sugar cube with bitters and water, adding a measure of whiskey, and garnishing with a lemon twist. This version of the cocktail became known as the "Old Fashioned" because it was a throwback to the old-fashioned way of making cocktails.
Evolution of the Old Fashioned
Over the years, the Old Fashioned has undergone numerous changes and variations. In the early 1900s, bartenders began to add a splash of soda water to the cocktail to give it a little fizz. Later, maraschino cherries and orange slices were added to the garnish, giving the cocktail a sweeter flavor.
In the 1950s and 1960s, the Old Fashioned became one of the most popular cocktails in America. However, during this time, the recipe began to change even more. Bartenders started to use pre-made mixes instead of muddling the sugar cube with bitters and water. Some even began to add a splash of soda or fruit juice to the cocktail.
By the 1980s, the Old Fashioned had fallen out of favor, and many people had forgotten how to make the classic cocktail. However, in recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in classic cocktails, and the Old Fashioned has once again become a popular drink.
Today, many bartenders are going back to the classic recipe, muddling the sugar cube with bitters and water, and garnishing with a lemon twist. However, some are also experimenting with new variations, adding different types of bitters or substituting different spirits for the whiskey.
Conclusion
The Old Fashioned cocktail has a rich history that spans over 200 years. From its origins as a simple whiskey cocktail to its modern-day variations, the Old Fashioned has evolved over time. However, despite all the changes, the classic recipe remains popular today.
Sources:
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"The History of the Old Fashioned." The Spruce Eats, 7 June 2021, www.thespruceeats.com/the-history-of-the-old-fashioned-759312.
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"Old Fashioned Cocktail." Wikipedia, 17 Mar. 2023, en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Old_Fashioned.
