Let’s take a trip down memory lane with the old fashion cocktail , a legendary drink that’s stood the test of time.
Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one-stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and I’ve been slinging drinks and navigating the world of hospitality for over two decades.
The past 15 years, I’ve perfected my bartending skills, experimented with countless flavor combinations, and learning a thing or two about how to keep the party going behind the bar.
Whether you’re a seasoned bartender like me just looking for some fresh inspiration or a complete beginner who is eager to whip up impressive cocktails at home, Shake, Sip, Serve is here to be your guide.
In the below blog, I’ll be sharing my knowledge and experience on everything from classic cocktails and innovative new creations to essential bartending techniques and industry secrets. I’ll also be offering tips on stocking your home bar, mastering the art of presentation, and creating a memorable experience for your guests.
So, grab your shaker, dust off your favorite glassware, and get ready to embark on a delicious journey into the world of bartending!
Let’s Shake, Sip, and Serve up something amazing together.
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The Old Fashioned: A Cocktail With History
Few cocktails are as legendary as the Old Fashioned. First recorded in the early 1800s, it’s considered one of the earliest “true” cocktails — defined simply as a spirit, sugar, bitters, and water.
Back then, bartenders weren’t chasing complexity. They were showcasing the spirit. And that’s what makes the Old Fashioned brilliant: it strips mixology down to its essence.
Fast-forward to today, and the Old Fashioned remains a global favourite, from hotel bars in New York to speakeasies in Sydney. Its staying power proves that sometimes the simplest combinations stand the test of time.
Why We Love the Old Fashioned
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Simple but sophisticated – Just a few ingredients, yet layers of flavour.
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Endlessly adaptable – Bourbon or rye? Orange or cherry? Different bitters? You’re in charge.
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Timeless appeal – While cocktail trends come and go, the Old Fashioned is here to stay.
💡 Bartender Insight: The Old Fashioned is the ultimate test of restraint. Anyone can throw in extras, but keeping it balanced with so little to work with? That’s skill.
How to Make the Perfect Old Fashioned (AU Measurements)
Ingredients
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60 ml Bourbon or Rye Whiskey – Bourbon gives a sweeter, rounder profile; rye adds spice and dryness.
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22 ml Demerara Sugar Syrup – Adds depth and caramel richness.
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2 dashes Angostura Bitters – Classic, spicy, and aromatic.
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Garnish: Orange twist or a Luxardo maraschino cherry.
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Ice: One large cube works best (less dilution, more chill).
Method
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Chill your glass – Add ice and water to a rocks glass, let it sit, then discard before building the drink.
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Add sugar syrup and bitters – These form the foundation.
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Pour in whiskey – Stir gently for about 30 seconds to combine and chill.
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Add ice – A single large cube keeps the drink cold without watering it down too quickly.
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Garnish – Express an orange peel over the glass to release oils, or add a cherry for a sweeter touch.
✨ Bartender Tip: Don’t over-stir. A watery Old Fashioned loses its richness. Aim for chilled and silky, not thin.
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Taking It Further: Variations & Experiments
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Bitters – Try orange bitters for brightness or Peychaud’s for a minty kick.
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Spirit swaps – Use Australian whiskies to give your Old Fashioned a local edge.
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Fruit twist – A muddled fig or roasted pineapple can add surprising depth.
The Old Fashioned invites you to experiment while always honouring the original balance of spirit + sugar + bitters.
More Than Just a Drink
The Old Fashioned is more than a cocktail — it’s a ritual. It connects us to the earliest days of bartending, where quality spirits were celebrated rather than hidden.
It’s a drink that asks for patience, rewards careful craft, and proves that doing the simple things well can be truly extraordinary.
The bartending community is a vibrant and supportive one, and I’m excited to build that community here on Shake, Sip, Serve.
I’d love to hear your thoughts, questions, and experiences in the comments below.
What are you shaking up these days?
What topics would you like to see covered in future posts?
Let’s connect and continue the conversation!
Liquor & Gaming NSW: This website provides information on liquor licensing, responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training, and regulations for serving alcohol in NSW. It’s essential for anyone working in the hospitality industry in NSW. You can find it here: https://www.liquorandgaming.nsw.gov.au/
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