The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic and enduring cocktails in the world. Born in the early 19th century, this simple yet bold drink has stood the test of time and evolved with modern tastes—without ever losing its foundational charm. At the heart of the drink is, of course, the whiskey. But with so many types, brands, and styles available, what kind of whiskey do you use for an Old Fashioned?
In this article, we’ll dive deep into the history, ingredients, types of whiskey, and practical tips to help you choose the perfect whiskey for your Old Fashioned. Whether you’re a whiskey novice or a seasoned cocktail connoisseur, this guide will equip you to make informed, flavor-forward decisions.
The Old Fashioned: A Brief History and Why Whiskey Matters
The earliest known reference to the Old Fashioned dates back to 1806, when it was described simply as a “whiskey cocktail.” The classic version consists of just four basic ingredients: whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. The drink’s brilliance lies in its simplicity—every ingredient must shine.
Whiskey is not just a base in this drink; it’s the star of the show. Because the Old Fashioned contains no mixers or juices to mask flavors, the choice of whiskey dramatically affects the final result. Using a low-quality or overly harsh whiskey can produce a bitter, unbalanced drink. Conversely, the right whiskey can elevate your Old Fashioned to a sublime sensory experience.
Understanding Whiskey Types and Their Impact on an Old Fashioned
Whiskey isn’t one-size-fits-all. Different countries and regions produce whiskeys with unique distillation processes, aging requirements, and flavor profiles. For the Old Fashioned, the main types to consider are:
Bourbon
Bourbon is the most commonly used whiskey for Old Fashioneds. By U.S. law, it must be made from at least 51% corn, distilled to no more than 160 proof, and aged in new charred oak barrels. The result is a smooth, slightly sweet whiskey with rich vanilla, caramel, and oak notes.
Why Bourbon Works:
– Natural sweetness complements the bitters and sugar.
– Charred oak barrels contribute smoky, toasty depth.
– Affordable and widely available.
Rye Whiskey
Rye whiskey must be made from at least 51% rye grain. Compared to bourbon, rye is typically drier, spicier, and more robust. It provides a sharp, complex backbone to the Old Fashioned and is a favorite among those who prefer a more assertive cocktail.
Why Rye Works:
– Offers a bold, spicy character that stands up to bitters.
– Great for those who prefer a less sweet cocktail.
– Adds interesting layers to the drink’s complexity.
Scotch Whisky
Scotch whisky—especially single malts—can make a fascinating base for an Old Fashioned, particularly if you enjoy a smoky, earthy, or medicinal flavor. Scotch is typically aged for at least three years and often features notes of dried fruit, peat, and sea air, depending on the region.
Why Scotch Works:
– Creates a more unconventional, smoky take on the Old Fashioned.
– Ideal for adventurous drinkers or special occasions.
– Peated varieties offer a dramatic, distinctive twist.
Tennessee Whiskey
Tennessee whiskey is similar to bourbon but undergoes an additional filtration step through maple charcoal known as the Lincoln County Process. Brands like Jack Daniel’s and George Dickel are household names, but their slightly sweeter, smoother profile can work well in an Old Fashioned.
Why Tennessee Whiskey Works:
– Smooth and slightly sweet, ideal for those new to the cocktail.
– Familiar to bourbon drinkers, with a unique twist.
– Charcoal filtration adds smoothness without overpowering.
Other Varieties (Japanese, Irish, Canadian)
While less traditional, these styles are gaining traction among creative mixologists:
- Japanese whisky: Often lighter and fruitier, but with excellent balance. Sip it for a refined, elegant Old Fashioned.
- Irish whiskey: Typically triple-distilled, leading to a lighter, smoother taste. It makes for a very easy-drinking Old Fashioned, though it may lack intensity.
- Canadian whisky: Lighter in body with a grain-forward profile. Less traditional, but can work well if blended with a bolder spirit.
When to Use Them:
– For special occasions or modern twists.
– To explore flavor trends and international palates.
– To pair with specific food or themes (e.g., Japanese whisky with sushi night).
Key Considerations When Choosing Whiskey for an Old Fashioned
Now that we understand the major whiskey types, let’s look at what you should consider when choosing the best one for your drink.
Maturity and Age Statement
The age of the whiskey significantly affects its flavor. Younger bourbons or ryes (6–8 years old) may have a more aggressive, assertive edge, while older expressions (12–20 years) offer smoother, more nuanced profiles.
| Whiskey Age | Flavor Impact | Best Use Case |
|————|—————-|—————-|
| 4–7 years | Bold, punchy | Regular, daily enjoyment |
| 8–12 years | Balanced, complex | Special occasions |
| 12+ years | Smooth, deep flavors | Sipping or high-end bars |
Tip:
Don’t assume “older is better”—older whiskey may become too soft when diluted in a cocktail.
Cask Strength vs. Bottled-in-Bond
Cask-strength whiskey is bottled undiluted from the barrel, often ranging from 55% to 70% ABV. Bottled-in-bond whiskey (like some bourbons) means it’s 50% ABV and distilled under strict U.S. government oversight.
Pros of Cask Strength:
– Intense flavor that survives dilution.
– Offers full control over dilution.
– Often more complex and rewarding.
Pros of Bottled-in-Bond:
– Balance between strength and drinkability.
– Reliable quality and regulation.
– Easier for beginners to use straight out of the bottle.
Flavor Profile
Pay attention to the tasting notes. A bourbon with prominent vanilla, caramel, and oak will offer comfort and familiarity. A rye with spice, pepper, and herbal tones will provide sharpness and depth. Scotch with smoke and peat will deliver drama and boldness.
Ask yourself:
– Do I prefer sweet or spicy?
– Want it mellow or punchy?
– Open to smoky, medicinal, or fruity tones?
Price and Value
The price of your chosen whiskey doesn’t need to be sky-high, but it should reflect your preferences and the context of your cocktail.
| Price Range | Recommendation |
|————|—————-|
| $20–$40 | Buffalo Trace, Wild Turkey 101, Jameson Irish whiskey |
| $40–$100 | Four Roses Single Barrel, Knob Creek Rye, Jameson Irish Whiskey Irish Oak |
| $100+ | Pappy Van Waffle (bourbon), Jameson Irish Whiskey Midle Cut, Bowmore 12 (Scotch), Nikka Coffey Malt (Japanese) |
Remember, this is not a sipper—it’s a cocktail. While some may advocate using only ultra-premium whiskeys, it’s more realistic (and economical) to use something mid-tier that still delivers character.
Tip:
Save the $200 bottles of bourbon for neat drinking or with a single cube.
Top Whiskey Picks for an Old Fashioned: Editor’s Favorites
Here are some well-tested options, categorized by whiskey type, that consistently produce stellar Old Fashioneds.
Bourbon Picks
- Buffalo Trace: A sweet, vanilla-forward bourbon that stands up beautifully to orange bitters and sugar.
- Four Roses Single Barrel: Fruit-forward with apricot and oak notes, offering a refined, clean backbone.
- Woodford Reserve: Slightly higher priced but delivers a balanced mix of spice, caramel, and citrus peel.
Rye Picks
- Rittenhouse Bottled-in-Bond: High proof, bold, and assertive, perfect for a punchy Old Fashioned.
- Old Overholt: Budget-friendly with classic rye spice; ideal for everyday cocktails.
- Knob Creek Rye: A richer, more refined rye with robust character and warmth.
Scotch Picks
- Bowmore 12-Year-Old: Smoky with vanilla sweetness and citrus peel—ideal for a dram-filled Old Fashioned.
- Lagavulin 16-Year-Old: For peat lovers, this adds drama and depth with every sip.
- Glendronach 12-Year-Old: Sherry-cask aged with notes of dried fruit and honey, offering a sweet-smoky twist.
Beyond Whiskey: Why Ingredients Still Matter
Even with the best whiskey, a poorly balanced Old Fashioned won’t satisfy. Let’s briefly touch on supporting components.
The Role of Sugar
Sugar tempers the bitterness. Traditionally, a sugar cube is muddled, but simple syrup can work for convenience.
- Muddled sugar cube: Adds texture and rustic charm.
- 1:1 simple syrup: Easier to use, dissolves cleanly.
Bitters Make or Break It
Angostura aromatic bitters are the gold standard. Their complex blend of botanicals, spices, and herbs enriches the cocktail without overpowering it.
Some alternatives:
– Peychaud’s: More floral, less bitter.
– Orange bitters: For added citrus brightness.
– Chocolate or coffee bitters: For dessert-style Old Fashioneds.
Citrus: The Finishing Touch
A twist of orange is essential. It should be flamed or expressed over the drink to release aromatic oils.
Bonus trick:
– Use a dehydrated orange slice or cherry for garnish if you’re serving with a large ice cube.
Premium Upgrade: Batched and Barrel-Aged Old Fashioneds
For home bars or cocktail enthusiasts, experimenting with batched and barrel-aged versions opens new horizons.
Batching Your Whiskey
Mixing a large batch of whiskey Old Fashioned ahead of time can offer a more balanced drink. This method allows the flavors to meld over time.
- Combine whiskey, bitters, and simple syrup in a large bottle.
- Store in the fridge or freezer until ready to use.
- Serve over fresh ice with a garnish.
Barrel-Aged Old Fashioned
Aging a batch in a small oak barrel (mini-barrels available online) for 2–6 weeks can soften the cocktail and impart additional flavor.
- Use a charred oak barrel.
- Store in a cool, dark place.
- Taste weekly until desired profile is achieved.
This results in:
- Smoother, mellower profile.
- Added vanilla and oak flavors.
- Mini aging experiments perfect for whiskey lovers.
Old Fashioned Traditions and Modern Variations
While the classic version remains popular, bartenders and enthusiasts often tweak the recipe to play with texture, flavor, and presentation.
House-Made Sugar Cubes
Bars sometimes infuse sugar cubes with orange zest or other flavors for a unique twist.
Mezcal Float
Adding a half ounce of mezcal on top enhances smokiness, perfect with bourbon bases.
Amberation
Amberation refers to aging the drink briefly in a cask or bottle to enhance flavor and complexity. It’s gaining traction in elite cocktail bars.
Tea-Infused Whiskey
Brew coffee or black tea with your favorite whiskey to introduce floral or roasted notes. Popular in gastropubs and upscale lounges.
Honing Your Palate: How to Taste Whiskey for Cocktails
Want to make better Old Fashioneds? Start tasting whiskey more deliberately.
Step-by-Step Whiskey Tasting
- Pour 1 oz at room temperature.
- Observe the color and viscosity (legs or tears).
- Smell the whiskey—note bourbon-forward sweetness, rye spice, or peaty undertones.
- Sip slowly—focus on flavor profile and aftertaste.
How It Helps You Choose
Tasting raw whiskey helps you determine:
– Whether it’s sweet enough or too bitter.
– How robust it will be in a cocktail.
– Whether it will overpower or complement the bitters.
Final Thoughts: Choose the Whiskey That Matches Your Taste (and Occasion)
In the end, there is no single “best” whiskey for an Old Fashioned. The perfect version depends on your personal taste, the occasion, and the experience you’re aiming for.
Are you pairing it with a steak dinner? Choose a bold bourbon or rye. Hosting a bourbon tasting night? Use a higher-proof pour to show off flavor. Enjoying a fireside drink after work? Maybe a smoother Tennessee whiskey or a balanced Scotch.
Remember:
– For everyday drinking: Stick with affordable, balanced options.
– For entertaining: Go for something with character and a story.
– For experimentation: Try Japanese, Irish, or even corn whiskey.
So what kind of whiskey do you use for an Old Fashioned?
Whatever makes you savor every sip.
What type of whiskey is best for an Old Fashioned?
The best whiskey for an Old Fashioned is largely a matter of personal preference, but bourbon and rye whiskey are the most traditional choices. Bourbon tends to add a sweeter, full-bodied flavor profile with notes of vanilla and caramel, making it ideal for those who enjoy a smoother, more approachable cocktail. Rye whiskey, on the other hand, contributes a spicier, drier character that can add complexity and depth, appealing to those who prefer a bolder, more robust drink.
It’s also worth experimenting with other styles such as Tennessee whiskey, which is similar to bourbon but filtered through charcoal (like Jack Daniel’s), or even Scotch whisky for a smoky variation. However, these alternatives may deviate from the traditional flavor of an Old Fashioned. Ultimately, choosing between bourbon or rye whiskey is the safest bet for authenticity, while personal taste should guide any further experimentation.
Can I use Scotch whisky in an Old Fashioned?
Yes, you can certainly use Scotch whisky in an Old Fashioned, though it will create a noticeably different version of the cocktail. Scotch, especially single malts from regions like Islay, tends to have a smoky, peaty flavor profile that contrasts with the sweeter or spicier notes of bourbon or rye. This can result in a more adventurous and unconventional Old Fashioned, perfect for whisky enthusiasts looking to explore new taste dimensions.
However, if you’re new to the Old Fashioned or prefer a more traditional experience, it’s advisable to begin with bourbon or rye whiskey before switching to Scotch. Additionally, not all Scotch whiskies are smoky — those from the Highlands or Speyside regions often offer more fruity and gentle characteristics that can complement the cocktail without overpowering it, giving you room to tailor the drink to your liking.
Is there a difference between using bourbon or rye whiskey in an Old Fashioned?
Yes, using bourbon versus rye whiskey in an Old Fashioned will create distinct variations of the cocktail. Bourbon, which is made primarily from corn and aged in new charred oak barrels, imparts a sweeter flavor profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. This makes for a smoother, more mellow version of the Old Fashioned that’s often more appealing to those with a less adventurous palate.
Rye whiskey, in contrast, is made with a higher percentage of rye grain, lending a spicier, drier, and more assertive flavor to the drink. This can add complexity and a bit of bite, which some cocktail connoisseurs prefer for a more robust and traditional experience. Ultimately, the choice between bourbon and rye comes down to personal taste, but each offers a different character that can change the drinking experience significantly.
Should I use an expensive whiskey for my Old Fashioned?
While it might seem logical to use a high-end whiskey for your Old Fashioned, the answer really depends on your personal preferences and how much you enjoy the spirit neat. In general, if you’re making a cocktail that contains just a few strong ingredients—like the Old Fashioned—using a quality mid-range whiskey is usually sufficient to deliver great flavor without overwhelming the palate. More affordable but well-crafted bourbons or ryes can perform admirably and offer a balanced drinking experience.
That said, if you have a special bottle that you enjoy and want to celebrate with, there’s no rule against using it in a cocktail. Some premium or barrel-proof whiskeys can actually enhance the Old Fashioned with more pronounced flavors and depth. Just be aware that the orange zest and sugar will influence the taste, so it’s worth trying different price points to find what works best for you.
How does the proof (ABV) of whiskey affect an Old Fashioned?
The proof or alcohol by volume (ABV) of the whiskey you use in an Old Fashioned can significantly influence the drink’s overall character. Higher-proof whiskeys (100+ ABV) will deliver a more intense, bold flavor with a stronger alcoholic presence. This can be desirable if you want a powerful cocktail that stands up to dilution and retains a pronounced spirit character even after stirring.
Lower-proof whiskeys, on the other hand, tend to create a softer, more delicate Old Fashioned, where the sweetness from sugar and bitterness from bitters are more balanced. Also, the dilution from stirring or muddling plays a role in bringing out flavors and making the drink palatable. When choosing your whiskey, it’s best to experiment with different ABVs to see what appeals most to your palate, keeping in mind that the cocktail will mellow out the harsh edges of high-proof spirits.
Are there any specific whiskey brands that are known for making great Old Fashioneds?
Several whiskey brands are widely praised for their performance in Old Fashioneds, thanks to their flavor profiles and balance. For bourbon, brands like Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, and Maker’s Mark are often recommended for their rich, sweet, and approachable notes that enhance the cocktail without overpowering it. These bourbons are easily found and relatively affordable, making them excellent choices for both beginners and cocktail enthusiasts.
When it comes to rye whiskey, popular picks for Old Fashioneds include Rittenhouse Bottled-in-Bond, Bulleit Rye, and Sazerac Rye. These whiskeys bring spice and structure to the drink, offering a dryness that complements the sugar and bitters beautifully. Some craft and premium options, like Elijah Craig or Pappy Van Winkle, are also used for special versions of the cocktail when a more nuanced or luxurious experience is desired.
Can I substitute other spirits for whiskey in an Old Fashioned?
While the Old Fashioned is traditionally made with whiskey, it is possible to experiment with other spirits to create exciting variations. For example, using dark rum results in a richer, molasses-forward cocktail that feels more tropical or winter-y depending on the rum’s profile. Tequila, on the other hand, introduces agave flavors and earthiness that pair well with orange bitters and sugar, giving the drink a Mexican-inspired twist.
However, substituting whiskey with other spirits changes the character of the cocktail significantly. Gin-based Old Fashioneds, for instance, can feel lighter and more aromatic due to the botanicals in the gin, while brandy offers a fruitier, more rounded experience. These alternatives are worth exploring if you’re looking for something new, but to fully appreciate the classic nature of the Old Fashioned, whiskey is still recommended as the foundational spirit.