If you’re an Old Fashioned aficionado, you know there’s something special about this classic cocktail. The perfect blend of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a hint of citrus makes it simple yet sophisticated. Whether you’re sipping one at home or in a cozy cocktail bar, it delivers a reliable balance of warmth, complexity, and refinement.
But what if you’re in the mood to explore? Luckily, several other whiskey cocktails echo the spirit of the Old Fashioned. Let’s explore the difference that using certain types of whiskey makes in an Old Fashioned, as well as which cocktails may be your alternative tipple when you’re ready to try something new.
Understanding the Whiskey in an Old Fashioned
One of the defining aspects of the Old Fashioned is its use of whiskey. While the drink’s origins date back to the early 19th century, the choice of whiskey has always been key to its identity. Typically, bourbon and rye whiskey are the most common bases for an Old Fashioned, and each brings its own unique qualities to the drink.
Bourbon vs. Rye: What’s the Difference In an Old Fashioned?
- Bourbon: Known for its smooth, slightly sweet flavor profile, bourbon is made primarily from corn. It delivers notes of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of oak. An Old Fashioned made with bourbon tends to be mellow, rich, and slightly sweeter.
- Rye Whiskey: Rye brings a spicier, drier flavor to the table, with peppery notes and a sharper finish. Rye-based Old Fashioneds are often described as bold and slightly more robust than their bourbon counterparts.
Typical Flavor Notes of a Classic Old Fashioned
When sipping an Old Fashioned, you’ll notice layers of flavor that combine seamlessly:
- Sweetness: From the sugar or simple syrup, providing balance.
- Bitterness: Delivered by the bitters (often Angostura), which add depth and complexity.
- Citrus: The twist of orange peel enhances the whiskey’s richness and adds aromatic brightness.
- Spice/Oak: From the whiskey itself, with notes of cinnamon, clove, or vanilla depending on the whiskey type.
The harmony between these elements is what makes the Old Fashioned timeless and versatile.
Which Bourbon Or Rye Whiskies To Use For an Old Fashioned
Selecting the right whiskey can elevate your Old Fashioned to new heights. Whether you prefer the smooth sweetness of bourbon or the spicier edge of rye, these popular brands bring excellent flavor to the classic cocktail:
- Maker’s Mark: A wheated bourbon, Maker’s Mark is soft, smooth, and slightly sweet, with flavors of vanilla and honey. It’s ideal for drinkers who enjoy a lighter, approachable Old Fashioned.
- Sazerac Rye: Named after the iconic New Orleans cocktail, Sazerac Rye delivers a balance of spice, citrus, and smoothness. It’s a perfect choice for a classic, spicy Old Fashioned.
- Buffalo Trace: Buffalo Trace bourbon offers a well-rounded flavor with notes of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of spice. Its smooth finish makes it perfect for a classic, mellow Old Fashioned.
- Old Forester Rye: Affordable yet flavorful, Old Forester Rye boasts notes of rich spice, brown sugar, and pecans, making it an excellent choice for a bold, well-rounded Old Fashioned.
5 Classic Cocktails Similar to an Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a popular, timeless cocktail that suits many occasions. But if you’re in the mood to branch out a bit, here are some whiskey-based cocktails that offer a twist to the usual sweet yet complex flavor profile you know and love. See which one suits your mood, the weather, or even your food pairing for the night:
The Manhattan: A Close Cousin of the Old Fashioned
The Manhattan is often seen as the Old Fashioned’s closest relative. It sticks to a similar whiskey foundation but swaps out the sugar for sweet vermouth, giving the drink a slightly herbal and richer character. The bitters remain, providing that familiar balance.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon for a smoother flavor)
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: Brandied cherry or orange twist
How It’s Made: Stir the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters with ice until well chilled. Strain into a chilled coupe or a rocks glass and garnish with a cherry or twist.
The Sazerac: A Bold, New Orleans-Inspired Classic
If you enjoy the Old Fashioned but want something a little more intense, the Sazerac is the way to go. Originating in New Orleans, this cocktail keeps the whiskey and bitters elements but adds a unique layer of complexity with a rinse of absinthe (or Herbsaint). The sugar cube and Peychaud’s bitters make it distinct while maintaining its minimalist charm.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube (or ½ oz simple syrup)
- 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
- Absinthe rinse
- Garnish: Lemon peel
How It’s Made: Rinse a chilled glass with absinthe, discarding any excess. In a separate mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water. Add whiskey and ice, stir, and strain into the prepared glass. Garnish with a lemon peel.
The Boulevardier: A Whiskey Lover’s Negroni
If you’re looking for a whiskey-based cocktail with a touch of bitterness, the Boulevardier is a perfect choice. It’s essentially a Negroni that swaps out gin for whiskey. The result is a rich, bittersweet, and complex drink that feels like a natural progression for Old Fashioned fans.
Ingredients:
- 1 ½ oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 oz Campari
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Garnish: Orange peel
How It’s Made: Stir all ingredients with ice until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube and garnish with an orange peel.
The Vieux Carré: A Complex New Orleans Classic
The Vieux Carré is another standout cocktail from New Orleans that Old Fashioned fans will appreciate. While the recipe is a bit more complex, it delivers a nuanced and well-balanced flavor that’s worth the effort.
Ingredients:
- ¾ oz rye whiskey
- ¾ oz cognac
- ¾ oz sweet vermouth
- ¼ oz Bénédictine liqueur
- 2 dashes Peychaud’s bitters
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: Lemon peel or cherry
How It’s Made: Stir all ingredients with ice until chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over ice and garnish with a lemon peel or cherry.
The Whiskey Smash: A Fresh, Citrus-Forward Twist
If you love the Old Fashioned but want something more refreshing for warmer weather, the Whiskey Smash is a great option. It combines whiskey, fresh lemon juice, mint, and sugar for a bright and zesty variation.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- ¾ oz simple syrup
- ½ lemon (cut into wedges)
- 4-6 fresh mint leaves
- Garnish: Mint sprig
How It’s Made: Muddle the lemon wedges and mint with simple syrup in a shaker. Add bourbon and ice, shake well, and strain into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a mint sprig.
A World of Classic Whiskey Cocktails Awaits
For lovers of the Old Fashioned, exploring similar cocktails opens up a world of rich, whiskey-based traditions with unique twists. Whether you gravitate toward the bittersweet Boulevardier, the bold Sazerac, or the refreshing Whiskey Smash, there’s a drink to match any mood or occasion.
These cocktails honor the simplicity and sophistication of the Old Fashioned while introducing exciting new flavors and ingredients. So next time you’re in the mood for something familiar yet different, give one of these classics a try.
