The world of cocktails is steeped in tradition, lore, and sometimes, just a little bit of confusion. Among the classics, few cocktails inspire as much reverence – and occasional debate – as the Old Fashioned. Its simplicity is its genius, but even its name seems to be a point of contention. Is it “Old Fashioned” or “Old Fashion”? This question has plagued bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts for years. Let’s dive deep into the history, origins, and subtle nuances to finally put this naming conundrum to rest.
Unraveling the History of the Old Fashioned
To understand the correct name, we must first journey back to the 19th century and trace the evolution of mixed drinks. Before the elaborate concoctions we often see today, cocktails were, in their earliest forms, quite simple.
The Original Cocktail: Simplicity Defined
The term “cocktail” itself initially referred to a mixture of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. This was the foundational template, a basic yet satisfying drink that was widely enjoyed. Think of it as the proto-cocktail, the ancestor of everything that followed.
The Rise of Fancy Drinks
As the 19th century progressed, bartenders, always keen to innovate, began experimenting with new ingredients and techniques. Liqueurs, fruit juices, and other additions found their way into cocktails, leading to increasingly complex and “fancy” drinks. While some welcomed these innovations, others yearned for the simpler days.
The Demand for the “Old Fashioned”
This yearning for the classic simplicity led to a demand for cocktails made “the old-fashioned way.” Customers began explicitly requesting drinks prepared with just spirits, sugar, water, and bitters – a direct pushback against the increasingly elaborate concoctions of the time. The phrase “old-fashioned” became shorthand for this specific style of drink preparation.
The Case for “Old Fashioned”
The historical context provides strong evidence supporting “Old Fashioned” as the correct name. The term arose from a specific request for a drink made in a particular, older style.
Historical Documentation: Evidence in Print
Early mentions of the drink in newspapers and cocktail guides almost universally refer to it as “Old Fashioned.” These primary sources offer invaluable insight into the terminology used at the time. Cocktail books from the late 19th and early 20th centuries consistently use “Old Fashioned” when providing recipes and descriptions.
Bartender Testimonials and Tradition
Ask any seasoned bartender, and they’ll likely tell you that “Old Fashioned” is the proper name. Tradition plays a significant role in the cocktail world, and the overwhelming consensus among professionals favors the full “Old Fashioned.” This isn’t just about preference; it’s about respecting the drink’s origins and history.
Why “Old Fashion” Might Exist (and Why It’s Wrong)
While “Old Fashioned” is the correct and widely accepted name, the shortened version, “Old Fashion,” does occasionally appear. This begs the question: why?
A Case of Linguistic Evolution?
One possibility is simple linguistic evolution. Over time, words and phrases are often shortened for convenience. It’s not uncommon for longer names to be truncated in casual conversation. Think of how “television” became “TV.”
Misunderstanding the Origins
Another possibility is a misunderstanding of the drink’s origins. If one isn’t aware of the historical context – the demand for a cocktail made “the old-fashioned way” – it might seem logical to shorten the name to “Old Fashion.”
Laziness or Simple Error
Sometimes, the explanation is simply laziness or a typo. In informal settings, people may simply shorten the name, or it could be a simple writing or spelling error. While understandable, it doesn’t make it correct.
The Modern Old Fashioned: Variations and Interpretations
While the core ingredients of an Old Fashioned remain relatively consistent – spirit, sugar, bitters, water – variations abound. Bartenders and home enthusiasts alike enjoy putting their own spin on this classic.
Spirit Selection: Beyond Bourbon
While bourbon is the most traditional spirit for an Old Fashioned, rye whiskey is also a popular choice. Some adventurous drinkers even experiment with rum, tequila, or mezcal, creating unique and flavorful variations. The key is to choose a spirit with enough character to stand up to the other ingredients.
Sweeteners: Sugar Cubes vs. Simple Syrup
The traditional method calls for muddling a sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water. However, many modern recipes use simple syrup for convenience and consistency. Both methods work well; it’s a matter of personal preference.
Bitters: Aromatic vs. Beyond
Angostura bitters are the classic choice for an Old Fashioned, providing a warm, spicy backbone to the drink. However, bartenders are increasingly experimenting with other types of bitters, such as orange bitters or even more exotic flavors, to add complexity and depth.
Garnishes: Orange Peel vs. Cherry
The traditional garnish for an Old Fashioned is an orange peel, expressed over the drink to release its fragrant oils. Some recipes also include a maraschino cherry, although this is a point of contention among purists. The orange peel is generally considered essential, while the cherry is optional (and often debated).
The Definitive Answer: It’s “Old Fashioned”
After examining the history, tradition, and modern interpretations of this iconic cocktail, the answer is clear: the correct name is “Old Fashioned.” While “Old Fashion” may occasionally appear, it is a shortened, informal version that lacks the historical weight and professional acceptance of the full name.
Embrace the tradition, respect the history, and order your next drink with confidence: “I’ll have an Old Fashioned, please.” You’ll not only get a delicious cocktail but also demonstrate your appreciation for the rich heritage of this timeless classic.
Crafting the Perfect Old Fashioned: A Step-by-Step Guide
Knowing the correct name is just the beginning. To truly appreciate the Old Fashioned, you must learn to make it properly. Here’s a step-by-step guide to crafting the perfect Old Fashioned at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 ounce simple syrup)
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Splash of water (optional)
Instructions: Bringing the Cocktail to Life
- Place the sugar cube in an old-fashioned glass.
- Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters to the sugar cube.
- Add a splash of water (optional, but helps dissolve the sugar).
- Muddle the sugar cube, bitters, and water until a paste forms.
- Add the bourbon or rye whiskey to the glass.
- Add ice to the glass. A large ice cube or sphere is ideal, as it melts more slowly.
- Stir gently until well-chilled.
- Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink by squeezing it.
- Rub the orange peel around the rim of the glass.
- Drop the orange peel into the glass as a garnish.
Tips for a Superior Old Fashioned
- Use high-quality ingredients. The quality of your whiskey and bitters will significantly impact the final product.
- Don’t over-muddle. Muddling too aggressively can release bitter compounds from the sugar and bitters.
- Use good ice. Clear, dense ice melts more slowly, preventing your drink from becoming diluted too quickly.
- Experiment with variations. Once you’ve mastered the classic recipe, feel free to explore different spirits, sweeteners, and bitters to create your own signature Old Fashioned.
The Enduring Appeal of the Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has endured for over a century because it represents the essence of what a cocktail should be: a simple, balanced, and flavorful drink that showcases the spirit at its core. Its timeless appeal lies in its adaptability and its ability to be both comforting and sophisticated. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or a curious newcomer, the Old Fashioned is a drink worth exploring and mastering. Just remember to call it by its proper name: Old Fashioned.
Is “Old Fashioned” or “Old Fashion” the correct name for the cocktail?
While both “Old Fashioned” and “Old Fashion” are used, the generally accepted and historically accurate name for the classic cocktail is “Old Fashioned.” The addition of the “ed” signifies that the drink is prepared in the “old-fashioned” way, harking back to a time before elaborate cocktail ingredients and techniques became commonplace. This name distinguished it from newer, more complex concoctions.
The shortened version, “Old Fashion,” might be used colloquially and understood in many bars, but it lacks the specificity of the original name. Sticking with “Old Fashioned” avoids potential confusion and demonstrates a deeper appreciation for the cocktail’s history and preparation. It is, therefore, the preferred and more accurate name.
Where did the Old Fashioned cocktail originate?
The most widely accepted origin story places the Old Fashioned in Louisville, Kentucky, at the Pendennis Club in the late 19th century. The story goes that a bartender, in response to a request for a cocktail “in the old-fashioned way,” mixed a drink with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water, and garnished it with citrus. This simple yet satisfying concoction quickly gained popularity.
The recipe spread beyond Louisville, and different variations began to emerge. To distinguish the original, unadulterated version from these newer iterations, people started explicitly requesting an “Old Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail,” cementing the drink’s name and preserving its classic recipe.
What are the essential ingredients of an Old Fashioned?
The core ingredients of an Old Fashioned are relatively simple: whiskey (typically bourbon or rye), sugar (often in the form of a sugar cube or simple syrup), bitters (Angostura bitters are the most common choice), and water or ice. Some recipes call for a muddled cherry and/or orange slice, although this is often debated and considered optional.
The specific proportions of these ingredients are crucial for achieving the right balance of sweetness, bitterness, and strength. The quality of the whiskey is also paramount, as it forms the foundation of the drink’s flavor profile. Experimentation with different whiskies and bitters can lead to exciting variations on the classic recipe.
What kind of whiskey is best for an Old Fashioned?
Traditionally, bourbon or rye whiskey is used in an Old Fashioned. Bourbon, with its sweeter, smoother profile, often provides a more approachable and balanced cocktail. Rye, on the other hand, offers a spicier and more robust flavor, which can stand up well to the sugar and bitters.
Ultimately, the best whiskey for an Old Fashioned depends on personal preference. Experimenting with different brands and styles within both bourbon and rye categories is highly recommended. Some people even enjoy using other types of whiskey, such as Irish whiskey or Scotch whisky, to create unique variations.
How do you make an Old Fashioned?
The classic method involves placing a sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass, saturating it with a few dashes of Angostura bitters, and adding a splash of water. Muddle the sugar cube until it dissolves into a paste. Then, add ice and two ounces of your chosen whiskey (bourbon or rye are typical).
Stir gently to combine and chill the ingredients. Garnish with an orange peel, expressed over the drink to release its oils, and optionally add a cocktail cherry. Some prefer to muddle the orange peel and cherry with the sugar and bitters initially, but purists often avoid this practice.
What are some common variations on the Old Fashioned?
Numerous variations on the classic Old Fashioned exist, often involving the substitution or addition of ingredients. For example, a Maple Old Fashioned uses maple syrup instead of sugar for a richer, more nuanced sweetness. A Smoked Old Fashioned incorporates a smoky element, often achieved by using a smoked sugar cube or whiskey.
Another popular variation involves using different types of bitters, such as orange bitters or chocolate bitters, to alter the flavor profile. Experimenting with different garnishes, such as lemon peels or different types of cherries, is also a common way to personalize the Old Fashioned.
Why is the Old Fashioned such a popular cocktail?
The Old Fashioned’s enduring popularity stems from its simplicity, versatility, and historical significance. It is a fundamentally straightforward cocktail, requiring only a few ingredients and minimal equipment, making it accessible to both novice and experienced bartenders. This accessibility contributes to its widespread appeal.
The Old Fashioned is also highly adaptable, allowing for endless variations based on personal preferences and available ingredients. Its timeless appeal and balanced flavors have made it a staple on cocktail menus worldwide, ensuring its continued presence in the world of mixology.