Cheers to That! Podcast – The Cocktail That Never Gets Old: The Old Fashioned

Welcome back to Cheers to That!—the podcast that’s all about mixing up the perfect drink and having a laugh along the way. Today’s episode is a real treat as we dive deep into the world of the Old Fashioned. Brought to you by DrinkLab, we’ve got the history, the variations, and a few surprises that will have you reaching for your bar cart in no time.

What’s the Big Deal with the Old Fashioned?

If you’ve ever imagined yourself sipping a cocktail in a dimly lit speakeasy, you’ve probably pictured an Old Fashioned in your hand. This drink isn’t just a mix of bourbon, sugar, and bitters—it’s a cultural icon. The kind of cocktail that’s seen it all and is still going strong, adapting to trends without losing its classic roots.

But wait, there’s more! The Old Fashioned’s rich history is packed with wild variations, passionate debates, and even a bit of rebellion against the excesses of the 1800s cocktail scene. So, how did we get from the whiskey cocktail of the late 1700s to the Old Fashioned we know today? Let’s find out.

The Secret Behind Its Popularity

The Old Fashioned isn’t just another cocktail—it’s a statement. At its core, it’s all about balance: the perfect harmony between the spirit, the sugar, and the bitters. Most people reach for bourbon, with its sweet vanilla and caramel notes, but rye whiskey lovers argue that the spicier, drier finish of rye makes for a more complex drink. Intrigued yet? You’ll have to try both to see which side you’re on.

And speaking of creativity, have you heard about the Benton’s Old Fashioned? Yep, that’s right—bourbon infused with country ham. Sounds crazy, but trust us, the smoky flavor mixed with a touch of maple syrup is a game-changer. Or, if you’re in the mood for something even more decadent, there’s the Brown Butter Old Fashioned. Imagine brown butter-washed bourbon paired with brown sugar for a drink that’s nutty, warm, and oh-so-delicious.

Variations and Customization—The Endless Possibilities

Here’s where things get really interesting. The Old Fashioned is a blank canvas for mixologists, allowing endless experimentation. Some people swear by muddling fruit, adding a splash of soda, or even trying brandy instead of bourbon. In fact, the Wisconsin Old Fashioned was born out of necessity during Prohibition when people had to get creative with whatever spirits they could find. And don’t even get us started on the smoked Old Fashioned—a sensory experience with hints of applewood, mesquite, or even rosemary.

What’s the best part? You get to decide! Whether you want to experiment with different spirits like Wild Turkey 101, go bold with a cask strength bourbon, or play with unique bitters like chocolate or orange, the Old Fashioned is as simple or complex as you want it to be.

The Verdict…

The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that never goes out of style, but it’s also one that never stops surprising you. With endless possibilities for customization, it’s a drink that can be reimagined time and time again. So, why not get creative? Whether you’re team bourbon or rye, a fan of smoked drinks, or you just love experimenting with new bitters, the Old Fashioned is waiting for your signature twist.

Recipes Mentioned in the Podcast:

Old Fashioned Cocktail

Savor the timeless elegance of the Old Fashioned cocktail, a classic blend of whiskey, bitters, and sugar, embodying the essence of sophistication

Benton’s Old Fashioned Cocktail

Explore Benton's Old Fashioned: a unique, smoky twist on the classic. A blend of fat-washed bourbon, maple syrup, and bitters for a bold taste.

Brown Butter Old Fashioned

Discover the Brown Butter Old Fashioned, a creative twist on the classic, blending brown butter-infused bourbon with traditional ingredients.

Bourbon Old-Fashioned

The timeless Bourbon Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has captivated drinkers for over 200 years. Despite its simple recipe of whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters, the drink remains popular and relevant today.