The New Fashioned Cocktail is a modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned that cocktail lovers can’t get enough of. It’s the perfect blend of tradition and innovation, combining rich flavors with a fresh, contemporary edge. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just starting out, this recipe is easy to master and sure to impress.
We love how this cocktail balances bold whiskey notes with subtle hints of citrus and spice, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. It’s a great way to elevate your home bar and enjoy a sophisticated drink that feels both timeless and new. Let’s dive into crafting the perfect New Fashioned that will quickly become your go-to cocktail.
Ingredients
To craft the perfect New Fashioned Cocktail, using the right ingredients is crucial. Below we break down the essential components and some flavorful options to elevate your mixology experience.
Main Ingredients
The core of our New Fashioned Cocktail blends classic whiskey with fresh and bold flavors for a modern twist.
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey – Choose a quality whiskey for depth and richness.
- 1/4 oz Simple Syrup – Balances the whiskey’s strength with subtle sweetness.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters – Adds aromatic complexity and warmth.
- 1 dash Orange Bitters – Enhances citrus notes and brightens the cocktail.
- 1 Orange Peel – For muddling and zesting, providing essential oils and aroma.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| Bourbon or Rye | 2 oz | Measured accurately |
| Simple Syrup | 1/4 oz | Use store-bought or homemade |
| Angostura Bitters | 2 dashes | Direct from the bottle |
| Orange Bitters | 1 dash | Adds a citrus twist |
| Orange Peel | 1 strip | Freshly cut for muddling |
Garnishes
Garnishes create the final sensory touch. They not only beautify the drink but complement the cocktail’s bold flavors.
- Luxardo Cherry – Adds a hint of sweet richness.
- Orange Twist – Expresses the oils over the glass for a bright citrus aroma.
- Cinnamon Stick (optional) – Provides subtle warmth and spice aroma if desired.
Optional Add-Ins
These ingredients can enhance or personalize the classic formula, letting us tailor the cocktail to our tastes.
- Splash of Club Soda – Adds effervescence and lightens the drink.
- Fresh Lemon Juice (1/4 oz) – Introduces refreshing acidity.
- Maple Syrup (substitute for simple syrup) – Offers a deeper sweetness and complexity.
- Fresh Herbs (like rosemary or thyme) – Infuse herbal notes when gently muddled.
Using these ingredients we can confidently assemble a bold, balanced New Fashioned Cocktail that delights both the palate and the senses.
Equipment Needed
To craft the New Fashioned Cocktail perfectly, having the right equipment is essential. Each tool helps us achieve the precise balance and presentation that defines this modern classic.
Essential Tools for the New Fashioned Cocktail
- Mixing Glass
Use a sturdy mixing glass to combine the ingredients smoothly. Its wide mouth allows for easy stirring and adding ice.
- Bar Spoon
A long-handled bar spoon is ideal for stirring the cocktail gently. This ensures proper dilution without over-agitating the whiskey.
- Jigger
Accuracy is key when measuring spirits and syrups. A double-sided jigger with clear markings lets us pour exact amounts — usually 1 to 2 ounces for the whiskey and smaller volumes for the syrups or bitters.
- Muddler
Although minimal muddling is involved in the New Fashioned, a wooden or nylon muddler is useful when gently pressing citrus peels or herbs to release their oils and aromas.
- Strainer
Using a Hawthorne or julep strainer helps us pour the cocktail smoothly from the mixing glass into the serving glass, leaving ice shards behind.
- Rocks Glass
Traditionally, the New Fashioned is served in a sturdy rocks glass or Old Fashioned glass. Its wide brim allows garnishes and aromas to shine.
- Peeler or Paring Knife
A tool to peel the orange or lemon zest precisely. Thin strips of citrus rind enhance both the look and flavor of the cocktail.
Equipment Overview
| Tool | Purpose | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Mixing Glass | Combine ingredients | Wide mouth for easy stirring |
| Bar Spoon | Stir cocktail gently | Long handle for control |
| Jigger | Measure liquids accurately | Typically 0.5 oz and 1 oz sides |
| Muddler | Release citrus oils or herbs | Wooden or nylon preferred |
| Strainer | Separate ice and solids | Hawthorne or julep types |
| Rocks Glass | Serve cocktail | Wide brim for garnish |
| Peeler/Knife | Cut citrus peels | Thin strips or twists |
“Having the right equipment transforms an ordinary drink into an extraordinary experience.”
By assembling these carefully selected tools, we ensure each step of the New Fashioned Cocktail recipe is executed with precision and style. This allows us to focus on flavor and presentation, impressing guests or simply enjoying a perfectly balanced cocktail at home.
Instructions
Follow these precise steps to craft the New Fashioned Cocktail perfectly every time. Our detailed guide ensures a balanced blend of bold whiskey and vibrant citrus notes.
Preparing the Glass
- Choose a clean rocks glass or old-fashioned glass.
- Add one large ice cube or several smaller cubes to chill the glass thoroughly.
- Set the glass aside while we prepare the cocktail, allowing it to cool without diluting prematurely.
Mixing the Cocktail
- In a sturdy mixing glass, combine the following ingredients:
| Ingredient | Measurement | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Bourbon or Rye | 2 oz (60 ml) | Use quality whiskey |
| Simple Syrup | 1/4 oz (7.5 ml) | Adjust for sweetness |
| Angostura Bitters | 2 dashes | Adds aromatic spice |
| Orange Bitters | 1 dash | Enhances citrus profile |
- Add one large ice cube to the mixing glass.
- Using a long-handled bar spoon, stir gently for about 30 seconds. This chills the mixture and dilutes slightly to soften the flavors.
- Place a strainer over the mixing glass and pour the cocktail into the chilled rocks glass over the ice.
Adding Garnishes
- Express the oils of a fresh orange peel over the cocktail by holding it skin-side down above the glass and giving it a firm twist.
- Rub the peel around the rim of the glass to embed the citrus aroma.
- Drop the peel into the drink as a garnish.
- For added elegance and flavor, skewer one or two Luxardo cherries and place them atop the cocktail.
- Optionally, add a small sprig of fresh herbs such as thyme or rosemary for an aromatic twist.
Directions
Follow these precise steps to craft the New Fashioned Cocktail perfectly every time. We will guide you through mixing and serving to ensure your cocktail bursts with bold flavors and elegant presentation.
Step-by-Step Mixing Guide
- Chill Your Glass
Place a rocks glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while preparing the cocktail to keep your drink perfectly cold.
- Combine Ingredients in Mixing Glass
Add the following to your mixing glass:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey (quality matters for bold flavor)
- 1/4 oz simple syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
- Add Ice and Stir
Fill the mixing glass with large ice cubes. Stir gently but thoroughly for 20-30 seconds. The goal is to chill and dilute slightly without losing the cocktail’s robust character.
- Prepare Your Rocks Glass
Discard the ice or water from your chilled rocks glass.
- Express the Orange Peel
Hold a fresh orange peel over the glass and gently squeeze to release the citrus oils onto the surface. Rub the peel around the rim for enhanced aroma.
- Strain and Pour
Using a strainer, pour the mixed cocktail into the prepared glass over a large ice cube or sphere.
- Garnish
Finish your New Fashioned Cocktail with a Luxardo cherry and the expressed orange twist atop the drink.
| Step | Action | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Chill Your Glass | Place rocks glass in freezer or ice water | Keeps cocktail cold on serving |
| 2. Combine Ingredients | 2 oz whiskey, 1/4 oz simple syrup, bitters | Balanced flavor foundation |
| 3. Add Ice and Stir | Stir 20-30 seconds | Proper chilling and dilution |
| 4. Prepare Rocks Glass | Remove ice or water | Ready for serving cocktail |
| 5. Express Orange Peel | Squeeze and rub peel oils on rim | Adds aromatic citrus notes |
| 6. Strain and Pour | Strain into glass with large ice | Smooth and cold presentation |
| 7. Garnish | Add Luxardo cherry and orange twist | Visual appeal, flavor enhancement |
Serving Suggestions
- Serve your New Fashioned Cocktail in a heavy-bottomed rocks glass to emphasize the drink’s classic sophistication.
- Pair with light appetizers such as nuts or cheese to complement the cocktail’s bold whiskey flavor without overpowering it.
- For a special occasion, present your cocktail with a small herb sprig like thyme or rosemary to add an herbal aroma layer.
- Avoid adding too many ice cubes; one large cube melts slower preserving the drink’s integrity.
- Offer a straw or let the drink be sipped directly which enhances the experience of the layered flavors and aroma.
Make-Ahead Tips
Preparing the New Fashioned Cocktail in advance can save time during gatherings and ensure consistency in flavor. Here are our top tips for successfully making this cocktail ahead of time:
Batch Mixing
We recommend preparing a batch mix by combining the whiskey, simple syrup, and bitters in a glass bottle or airtight container. This method preserves the cocktail’s distinctive balance and lets the flavors meld beautifully.
| Ingredient | Measure per Serving | Batch Note |
|---|---|---|
| Bourbon or Rye Whiskey | 2 oz | Multiply by servings |
| Simple Syrup | 0.25 oz (1/4 oz) | Use freshly made for best taste |
| Angostura Bitters | 2 dashes | Maintain ratio per serving |
| Orange Bitters | 2 dashes | Optional but recommended |
- Tip: Store the batch in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reminder: Avoid adding ice or fresh citrus peel until serving to maintain freshness.
Citrus Peel and Garnish Prep
We can prepare orange twists and Luxardo cherries ahead and keep them refrigerated in an airtight container. This step ensures the cocktail looks polished and saves time during final assembly.
- Store orange peels wrapped in a damp paper towel inside a sealed plastic bag.
- Keep Luxardo cherries submerged in their syrup in the original jar or a similar airtight container.
Pre-Chilling Glassware
For optimal enjoyment, chill your rocks glasses in the freezer at least 30 minutes before serving. This step is easy to do ahead and enhances the cocktail’s crisp presentation.
Final Pouring and Stirring
Even if batch mixed ahead of time, we recommend:
- Pouring the pre-mixed cocktail over fresh ice cubes just before serving.
- Gently stirring with a bar spoon to properly chill and dilute the drink.
- Expressing fresh orange peel oils over the glass to release its aromatic oils.
- Adding garnishes to finalize flavor and visual appeal.
“Batch preparation respects the integrity of the New Fashioned Cocktail while giving you flexibility for hosting with minimal fuss.”
By organizing these make-ahead steps, we guarantee that every pour delivers the rich citrus, bitters, and bold whiskey harmony that defines the New Fashioned Cocktail.
Conclusion
Crafting the New Fashioned Cocktail is a rewarding experience that brings a fresh twist to a timeless classic. With the right ingredients, tools, and techniques, we can create a drink that’s both bold and balanced, perfect for any occasion.
By embracing the make-ahead tips and personalizing the recipe, we ensure every sip is consistently enjoyable and impressive. This cocktail not only elevates our home bar but also invites us to savor the art of mixology with confidence and style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a New Fashioned Cocktail?
The New Fashioned Cocktail is a modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned, combining bold whiskey flavors with citrus and spice for a balanced, approachable drink.
What ingredients are needed for a New Fashioned Cocktail?
You need quality bourbon or rye whiskey, simple syrup, Angostura and orange bitters, fresh orange peel, and garnishes like Luxardo cherries and orange twists.
Can I customize the New Fashioned Cocktail?
Yes, optional add-ins like club soda, fresh lemon juice, maple syrup, and herbs can personalize the flavor to your preference.
What equipment is essential for making a New Fashioned Cocktail?
Key tools include a mixing glass, bar spoon, jigger, muddler, strainer, rocks glass, and a peeler or paring knife for citrus garnishes.
How do you prepare a New Fashioned Cocktail?
Chill a rocks glass, mix whiskey, simple syrup, and bitters with ice in a mixing glass, stir gently, strain into the chilled glass, and garnish with orange peel and Luxardo cherry.
Can I make the New Fashioned Cocktail ahead of time?
Yes, you can batch mix the whiskey, syrup, and bitters in advance, but add ice and garnishes like citrus peel only when serving to maintain freshness.
What makes the New Fashioned Cocktail different from the Old Fashioned?
The New Fashioned highlights a balance of citrus and spice with more modern ingredients and customization options while retaining the classic whiskey base.
Why use fresh orange peel in the New Fashioned?
Fresh orange peel releases essential oils that add a bright citrus aroma and subtle flavor, enhancing the cocktail’s overall complexity.
Are Luxardo cherries necessary for a New Fashioned?
While optional, Luxardo cherries add a rich, sweet note and a visually appealing garnish that complements the drink’s flavors nicely.
What is the best whiskey for a New Fashioned Cocktail?
Choose a quality bourbon or rye whiskey with bold flavors, as it forms the foundation of the cocktail’s rich, balanced taste.