Old Fashioned: The Old School Drink

Discover the history and master the recipe for the world's first cocktail—the go-to choice for icons who value the timeless over the trendy.

The Old Fashioned is more than just a drink; it’s a statement of character. Known as the "father of all cocktails," it emerged in the early 1800s as a straightforward blend of whiskey, sugar, and botanicals. While the world was busy trying to invent complex, over-the-top concoctions, real men demanded their pour "the old-fashioned way"—giving birth to a name that has commanded respect for centuries.

This classic, which became the ultimate symbol of power in the hands of characters like Don Draper (Mad Men), is the litmus test for any bartender. It represents the grit and authenticity of a man who doesn't chase fleeting trends but builds his own legacy.

The Secret to the Perfect Pour


To take it to the next level, the trick is to swap standard sugar for a richer, more complex blend. Here is how to craft this relic at home:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Bourbon (choose a high-quality American label);
• 1 tsp Triple Syrup (a blend of honey, agave, and demerara sugar);
• 4 dashes Angostura Bitters;
• Crystal-clear ice and an orange peel.

 

Step-by-Step:

1. In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, syrup, and Angostura.
2. Add plenty of ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds.
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over a single large ice cube.
4. Twist the orange peel over the glass to release the citrus oils, then drop it in to garnish.

 

Bella Tip: An Old Fashioned is meant to be savored slowly. It is the perfect companion for a deep conversation or a quiet moment of reflection on the future you are building.