Once Called a "Whiskey Cocktail" Let's Dive into the Rich History of the Old Fashioned
In the realm of mixology, few cocktails hold as much allure and historical significance as the Old Fashioned. Its origins trace back to the early 19th century, when bartenders began experimenting with the perfect blend of spirits, bitters, sugar, and water. What emerged was a “Whiskey Cocktail” that would stand the test of time, captivating the palates of cocktail enthusiasts for generations to come. But have you ever wondered how this iconic drink got its name and what tales lie behind its origins?
The Origins of the Old Fashioned
The genesis of the Old Fashioned can be found in the evolution of the word "cocktail" itself. In the early 1800s, a cocktail was defined as a mixture of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. As the cocktail culture flourished, variations emerged, each with its own unique twist on the classic formula. However, it was the Old Fashioned formula that remained true to its roots, embodying simplicity and sophistication in every sip.
The name "Old Fashioned" itself is a nod to the traditional way of making a cocktail. When the term started gaining popularity in the late 19th century, it was used to signify a return to the classic method of preparing a drink with a simple yet sophisticated blend of spirit, sugar, water, and bitters.
The Letter from Old Timer
In a fascinating piece of cocktail history, a man named Old Timer wrote a letter to The New York Times in the early 20th century, expressing his admiration for the Old Fashioned cocktail. In his letter, Old Timer praises the drink for its timelessness and elegance, urging readers to savor its rich flavors and embrace the art of cocktail-making in its purest form. The Old Timer was not thrilled with the growing trend of overcomplicated cocktails, advocating for a return to the simplicity of the Old Fashioned ones. His words struck a chord with cocktail enthusiasts around the world, sparking a renewed interest in this timeless libation. The letter from Old Timer not only captured the essence of the Old Fashioned cocktail but also sparked a renewed interest in this classic libation, ensuring its enduring legacy in the world of cocktails.
THE LETTER TO THE NY TIMES: “Time was when the affable and sympathetic bartender moistened a lump of sugar with Angostura bitters, dropped in a lump of ice, neither too large nor too small, stuck in a miniature bar spoon and passed the glass to the client with a bottle of good bourbon from which said client was privileged to pour his own drink. In most places the price was 15 cents or two for quarter.
Nowadays the modern or ex-speakeasy bartender drops a spoonful of powdered sugar into a glass, adds a squirt of carbonic to aid dissolution, adds to that a dash or two of some kind of alleged bitters and a lump of ice, regardless of size. Then he proceeds to build up a fruit compote of orange, lemon, pineapple and cherry, and himself pours in a carefully measured ounce and a half of bar whisky, usually a blend, and gives one a glass rod to stir it with. Price, 35 to 50 cents. Profanation and extortion.” -Old Timer
The Old Fashioned cocktail stands as a testament to the artistry and craftsmanship of bartenders throughout history. With each sip, we are transported back to a bygone era, where simplicity and elegance reigned supreme. So, the next time you order an Old Fashioned at the bar, take a moment to appreciate the rich history and heritage that lies within this timeless drink. Cheers to the Old Fashioned!
