3 Easy Ways To Make Your Old Fashioned Even Better

Select a good whiskey

When evaluating the quality of a whiskey, several factors come into play. A good whiskey should offer a smooth mouthfeel and a pleasant aftertaste. To choose a premium whiskey, consider its aroma, color, age, and alcohol content. Look for a complex bouquet featuring notes of vanilla, spices, and other distinctive characteristics. A deeper color often indicates a longer aging process. For an old fashioned, it's advisable to opt for a 100-proof whiskey, which has a higher alcohol percentage. While rye is typically preferred for this cocktail over bourbon or scotch, personal taste can influence your choice.

Once you've selected your whiskey, the focus shifts to dilution and sweetness. An old fashioned should strike a balance between sweet and spicy flavors without overshadowing the whiskey itself. Some recipes suggest using a sugar cube, muddled at the bottom of the glass with a dash of bitters and a splash of water. Alternatively, you can prepare a simple syrup made from sugar and water. To achieve the right level of sweetness, maintain a 2:1 ratio of sugar to water for the syrup. Just add a small amount—approximately one teaspoon—to your cocktail.

Pick a high quality garnish

Once the cocktail is prepared, it's time to focus on its presentation. Justin Lavenue emphasized the significance of the garnish, stating that it can elevate the drink to new heights. He elaborated, "A simple touch like freshly expressed orange peel can enhance the cocktail without adding complexity. The oil from the peel introduces a delicate citrus aroma that brightens the flavors, offering a refreshing contrast to the richness of the whiskey."

The restaurateur further remarked, "A thoughtfully selected garnish—be it a citrus twist or a brandied cherry—can significantly impact the drink's visual and aromatic appeal. These small details contribute greatly to crafting a more unforgettable cocktail."

Traditionally, an old fashioned is garnished with a thin slice of orange peel and a maraschino cherry. However, one can get creative with garnishes by opting for a candied orange slice instead. When it comes to cherries, many prefer the Luxardo cherry, a dark maraschino variety, over the bright red, sugary ones typically found in ice cream sundaes. While they share similar flavors, the Luxardo cherry is richer, less sweet, and boasts a firmer texture.

Use a nice glass

Enhancing the presentation of the classic cocktail, Justin Lavenue recommended serving the drink in an elegant glass to create a harmonious connection between your brain and taste buds. "I always advocate for using a quality old fashioned glass, or even one crafted from crystal, as nothing compares to the sensation of the cocktail in your hand as you take a sip," he explained. "Your brain naturally associates a more premium experience with a drink that engages the often-overlooked sense of touch."

Traditionally, the drink is served in a short glass, commonly known as a rocks glass or lowball glass. While these glasses come in a variety of price points, it is generally believed that those with a thicker build and substantial weight are of superior quality. In addition to the shape and tactile experience of the glass, the design also plays a role. Some individuals prefer a sleek, contemporary style with minimalistic patterns, while others are drawn to classic, intricate crystal designs. With the ideal drink, garnish, and glass in hand, your old fashioned will be an extraordinary experience.