The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail with a rich history that dates back over 200 years. It originated in Louisville, Kentucky, a bustling center of commerce and trade in the early 19th century. The cocktail was created to showcase the local spirit, bourbon, which was gaining popularity among American drinkers.
The first recorded mention of the Old Fashioned cocktail was in 1806, in The Balance and Columbian Repository, a newspaper of the time. The recipe called for a mix of sugar, water, bitters, and spirits, which could be either brandy or whiskey. As the cocktail evolved over the years, bourbon became the preferred spirit of choice.
The Old Fashioned cocktail gained widespread popularity during the 19th century.A s time passed, however, the recipe for the cocktail became standardized and nowadays, the modern-day Bourbon Old Fashioned recipe typically includes a sugar cube, Angostura bitters, a splash of water, and a healthy dose of bourbon.
The secret to a perfect Bourbon Old Fashioned is to use a high-quality bourbon. The rich, caramel notes of the bourbon are what give the cocktail its distinctive flavor. It’s also important to use fresh ingredients, including the citrus peel and the bitters.
Over the years, the Bourbon Old Fashioned has become a staple of American cocktail culture. It’s a classic drink that can be enjoyed in a variety of settings, from a neighborhood bar to a swanky cocktail lounge. The cocktail has also made its way into popular culture, appearing in movies, TV shows, and books.
In recent years, there has been a resurgence of interest in classic cocktails, and the Bourbon Old Fashioned is at the forefront of this trend. Bartenders all over the world are putting their own spin on the classic recipe, using different types of bitters, adding a splash of soda water, or even incorporating unusual ingredients like bacon or smoked salt.
Despite all the variations, the basic recipe for the Bourbon Old Fashioned remains the same. Moreover, it’s a drink that’s easy to make at home. To make your own Bourbon Old Fashioned, follow this simple recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
- A splash of water
- 2 oz bourbon
- A twist of citrus peel
Instructions:
- Place the sugar cube in a glass and add the bitters and a splash of water.
- Muddle the sugar cube until it is dissolved.
- Add the bourbon and stir.
- Add a large ice cube to the glass.
- Garnish with a twist of citrus peel.
The Bourbon Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that has stood the test of time. Its rich history and distinctive flavor have made it a favorite of bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts all over the world. Whether you’re a seasoned bourbon drinker or new to the world of cocktails, the Bourbon Old Fashioned is a drink that you’ll love.
