Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve
Welcome to Shake, Sip, Serve, your one stop shop for all things bartending.
I’m your host, KAD, and if there is one cocktail that every bartender should know inside and out, it’s the Old Fashioned.
Many people call it the original cocktail, and for good reason.
Long before Espresso Martinis, Margaritas and Mojitos became household names, bartenders were mixing spirits with sugar, bitters and water.
The result was the Old Fashioned.
Simple.
Elegant.
Timeless.
Today, the Old Fashioned family remains one of the most respected cocktail categories in the world. It teaches balance, precision and an appreciation for quality spirits.
Let’s take a closer look at the cocktail family that helped shape modern bartending.
What Is An Old Fashioned Cocktail?
An Old Fashioned is a spirit forward cocktail built around:
- Base Spirit
- Sugar
- Bitters
- Water or Dilution
Unlike cocktails that rely on fruit juice or mixers, the Old Fashioned is designed to enhance the flavour of the base spirit rather than hide it.
Most Old Fashioned cocktails are:
- Spirit forward
- Stirred
- Served over ice
- Garnished simply
The result is a rich, balanced cocktail that highlights the character of the spirit.
The Old Fashioned Formula
One of the reasons the Old Fashioned has stood the test of time is its incredibly simple structure.
Classic Formula
- 60ml Base Spirit
- 1 Sugar Cube or 10ml Sugar Syrup
- 2 to 3 Dashes Aromatic Bitters
- Stir with Ice
Garnish
- Orange Peel
Some variations also include a cocktail cherry.
Why The Old Fashioned Family Matters
The Old Fashioned family teaches bartenders:
- Spirit appreciation
- Dilution control
- Stirring technique
- Bitters knowledge
- Simplicity
Because there are so few ingredients, every detail matters.
It’s often considered one of the true tests of bartending skill.
The History Of The Old Fashioned
The origins of the Old Fashioned date back to the early 1800s.
At the time, the word cocktail referred to a drink made with:
- Spirit
- Sugar
- Water
- Bitters
As bartenders began experimenting with more complex recipes, some guests requested their cocktails made in the “old fashioned” way.
The name stuck.
Today, it’s recognised as one of the world’s oldest and most influential cocktails.
The Classic Old Fashioned
The benchmark of the family.
Ingredients
- Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- Sugar
- Angostura Bitters
Garnish
- Orange Peel
Flavour Profile
- Rich
- Smooth
- Slightly Sweet
- Spirit Forward
The goal isn’t to make the whiskey disappear.
It’s to enhance it.
The Rum Old Fashioned
A tropical interpretation.
Ingredients
- Aged Rum
- Sugar
- Aromatic Bitters
The rum contributes notes of caramel, vanilla and spice while maintaining the classic structure.
The Tequila Old Fashioned
A modern favourite.
Ingredients
- Reposado Tequila
- Agave Syrup
- Aromatic Bitters
The agave syrup complements the natural flavours of the tequila beautifully.
The Brandy Old Fashioned
A regional favourite, particularly in parts of the United States.
Ingredients
- Brandy
- Sugar
- Bitters
Brandy creates a softer, fruitier version of the classic recipe.
The Oaxaca Old Fashioned
A modern classic that combines two spirits.
Ingredients
- Tequila
- Mezcal
- Agave Syrup
- Chocolate Bitters
Smoky, rich and incredibly complex.
Why Bitters Matter
Bitters are often described as the seasoning of the cocktail world.
In an Old Fashioned they provide:
- Complexity
- Balance
- Aromatics
The most common choice is:
- Angostura Bitters
Modern bartenders also experiment with:
- Orange Bitters
- Chocolate Bitters
- Walnut Bitters
Small changes can dramatically alter the final drink.
Sugar Cube vs Sugar Syrup
Traditionally, Old Fashioneds were made using a sugar cube.
Today, many bars use sugar syrup because it:
- Dissolves faster
- Creates consistency
- Speeds up service
Both methods are acceptable, provided the drink remains balanced.
Stirring Instead Of Shaking
Old Fashioneds should almost always be stirred.
Stirring provides:
- Smooth texture
- Controlled dilution
- Clear appearance
Shaking introduces unnecessary air and can over dilute the drink.
The Importance Of Ice
Ice plays a major role in an Old Fashioned.
Most bartenders prefer:
- One large ice cube
- One large ice sphere
Large ice melts more slowly, reducing dilution while keeping the cocktail cold.
Old Fashioned Family vs Manhattan Family
These two whiskey cocktail families are often confused.
Old Fashioned Family
- Spirit
- Sugar
- Bitters
Manhattan Family
- Whiskey
- Vermouth
- Bitters
The Manhattan relies on vermouth for balance, while the Old Fashioned uses sugar.
Old Fashioned Family vs Negroni Family
Both are spirit forward cocktails.
Old Fashioned
Focuses on enhancing the spirit.
Negroni
Balances spirit with bitter aperitifs and vermouth.
The drinking experience is quite different despite similar techniques.
Glassware For Old Fashioneds
The traditional choice is:
- Rocks Glass
- Old Fashioned Glass
The wide bowl accommodates a large ice cube while showcasing the garnish.
Common Old Fashioned Garnishes
The garnish should remain simple.
Orange Peel
The traditional choice.
Expressing the oils over the drink adds aroma and depth.
Cocktail Cherry
Optional in many bars.
Premium brandied cherries are commonly used.
Common Old Fashioned Mistakes
Over Sweetening
The spirit should remain the focus.
Over Dilution
Too much stirring weakens the cocktail.
Poor Quality Ice
Large clear ice creates a better drinking experience.
Shaking Instead Of Stirring
This changes the texture and appearance.
Too Much Fruit
An Old Fashioned should not resemble a fruit salad.
Keep the garnish simple and elegant.
Why Every Bartender Should Learn The Old Fashioned Family
The Old Fashioned family teaches:
- Spirit appreciation
- Stirring technique
- Dilution control
- Balance
- Simplicity
Many experienced bartenders believe mastering the Old Fashioned is one of the most important milestones in learning classic cocktails.
Essential Equipment For Old Fashioned Cocktails
Before we start mixing, make sure you have your cocktail kit ready to go. A proper shaker, jigger and strainer will make the process smoother and help you create a better balanced drink.
While Old Fashioneds aren’t shaken, you’ll still benefit from having the right bar tools.
Essential equipment includes:
- Mixing Glass
- Bar Spoon
- Jigger
- Large Ice Mould
- Rocks Glass
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Old Fashioned cocktail?
An Old Fashioned is a spirit forward cocktail made with a base spirit, sugar, bitters and dilution from ice.
What spirit is traditionally used?
Bourbon and rye whiskey are the most common choices.
Should an Old Fashioned be stirred or shaken?
It should always be stirred.
What glass is used for an Old Fashioned?
A rocks glass, also known as an Old Fashioned glass.
Why is it called an Old Fashioned?
The name comes from guests requesting cocktails made in the “old fashioned” style using spirit, sugar, bitters and water.
Final Thoughts
The Old Fashioned family is the foundation of classic cocktail culture.
Its simple combination of spirit, sugar and bitters has influenced countless cocktails and continues to be one of the most respected drinks in bartending.
For beginner bartenders, mastering the Old Fashioned develops essential skills in balance, dilution and presentation while building a deeper appreciation for quality spirits.
If you can consistently make a great Old Fashioned, you’re well on your way to becoming a confident bartender.
Thanks for Joining Us Behind the Bar
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: Liquor & Gaming NSW.
If you’re looking to complete your RSA in any state or territory across Australia, you can find the full details here.