The Old Fashioned: a cornerstone of the cocktail world, a testament to simplicity, and a drink that showcases the power of quality ingredients. At its heart, this iconic beverage is a celebration of whiskey, sugar, water, and, perhaps most importantly, bitters. But what kind of bitters elevate an Old Fashioned from good to extraordinary? The answer is nuanced, steeped in history, and open to personal preference. This guide will explore the classic choices, the exciting alternatives, and the art of using bitters to craft the perfect Old Fashioned for your palate.
The Undisputed Champion: Angostura Bitters
When most people think of bitters in an Old Fashioned, Angostura is the name that springs to mind. It’s practically synonymous with the drink. This dark, intensely aromatic bitters, bottled in its distinctive paper-wrapped label, has been a staple in bars for over a century.
Aromatic Complexity and Historical Significance
Angostura bitters offers a complex blend of flavors. You’ll find notes of clove, cinnamon, gentian, and various other spices. It’s not just a bittering agent; it’s a flavor enhancer that adds depth and intrigue to the Old Fashioned. Its historical significance cannot be overstated. Dr. Johann Siegert, a German surgeon general, originally created Angostura in Venezuela in the 1820s as a medicinal tonic. It quickly transitioned from the medicine cabinet to the cocktail shaker, becoming an indispensable ingredient in classic cocktails like the Manhattan and the Old Fashioned.
The Perfect Dosage for an Angostura Old Fashioned
How much Angostura bitters should you use in an Old Fashioned? The traditional recipe calls for 2-3 dashes. However, some bartenders prefer to be more generous, using up to half a teaspoon. The key is to experiment and find the balance that suits your taste. A good starting point is 2 dashes, then taste and adjust accordingly. Remember, bitters are potent, so start small and add more if needed.
Exploring Beyond the Standard: Orange Bitters
While Angostura reigns supreme, orange bitters offer a brighter, citrus-forward alternative that can significantly alter the character of an Old Fashioned. They provide a refreshing contrast to the richer, spicier notes of whiskey.
A Zesty Twist on a Classic
Orange bitters are made by infusing bitter orange peels, along with other botanicals, in alcohol. They deliver a vibrant citrus aroma and a slightly bitter, zesty flavor. This can lighten the feel of the Old Fashioned, making it a great choice for warmer weather or for those who prefer a less intense drink.
Popular Brands of Orange Bitters
Several brands produce excellent orange bitters. Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 is a widely respected choice, known for its bright, clean citrus flavor. Fee Brothers Orange Bitters is another popular option, offering a slightly sweeter and more approachable profile. Experiment with different brands to find one that complements your chosen whiskey.
Using Orange Bitters in an Old Fashioned
The dosage for orange bitters in an Old Fashioned is similar to Angostura, typically 2-3 dashes. You can use them as a substitute for Angostura or, for a more complex flavor, combine them with Angostura. A combination of 1 dash of Angostura and 2 dashes of orange bitters can create a beautifully balanced Old Fashioned.
The Intriguing World of Alternative Bitters
Beyond Angostura and orange, a vast and exciting world of alternative bitters awaits exploration. These less common, often handcrafted, bitters can add unique and unexpected dimensions to your Old Fashioned.
Peach Bitters: A Fruity Indulgence
Peach bitters bring a delicate sweetness and fruity aroma to the Old Fashioned. They work particularly well with bourbon, enhancing its caramel and vanilla notes. Look for brands that use real peach extracts for the most authentic flavor.
Chocolate Bitters: A Decadent Delight
Chocolate bitters add a rich, decadent touch to the Old Fashioned. They pair exceptionally well with rye whiskey, complementing its spicy character. The result is a sophisticated and surprisingly balanced cocktail.
Spiced Bitters: Warming and Aromatic
Spiced bitters, often featuring flavors like cinnamon, clove, and allspice, can add a warming and aromatic complexity to the Old Fashioned. They’re a perfect choice for fall and winter, creating a cozy and comforting drink.
Other Notable Alternatives
- Aromatic Bitters: While Angostura is the most famous, other aromatic bitters offer variations on the theme, with different spice blends and flavor profiles.
- Grapefruit Bitters: These provide a tart and refreshing citrus note, similar to orange bitters but with a slightly more bitter edge.
- Celery Bitters: Don’t let the name fool you; celery bitters offer a savory and herbal complexity that can add a unique twist to the Old Fashioned.
Sourcing and Experimenting with Alternative Bitters
Finding alternative bitters can be an adventure in itself. Specialty cocktail shops and online retailers are your best bet. Don’t be afraid to experiment! Try different combinations of bitters and whiskies to discover your personal favorite. A few drops of an unusual bitters can transform your Old Fashioned into something truly special.
The Art of Pairing Bitters with Whiskey
The choice of bitters should always be considered in relation to the whiskey you’re using. The goal is to create a harmonious balance of flavors.
Bourbon: A Versatile Partner
Bourbon, with its sweet caramel and vanilla notes, pairs well with a wide range of bitters. Angostura bitters are a classic choice, enhancing the bourbon’s inherent sweetness. Orange bitters can add a bright citrus counterpoint. Peach and chocolate bitters can also be excellent choices, adding complementary layers of flavor.
Rye: Spicy and Bold
Rye whiskey, with its spicy and often peppery character, benefits from bitters that can either tame its intensity or enhance its complexity. Angostura bitters can add depth and warmth, while chocolate bitters can create a surprisingly harmonious balance. A dash of spiced bitters can also complement the rye’s inherent spice.
Other Whiskeys: Exploring the Possibilities
For other types of whiskey, such as Scotch or Irish whiskey, the choice of bitters depends on the specific characteristics of the whiskey. A lighter Scotch might benefit from a touch of orange bitters, while a smoky Scotch could be intriguing with a dash of chocolate or spiced bitters.
A Simple Guide to Whiskey and Bitters Pairing
To help you get started, here’s a simple guide:
| Whiskey Type | Recommended Bitters |
|---|---|
| Bourbon | Angostura, Orange, Peach, Chocolate |
| Rye | Angostura, Chocolate, Spiced |
| Scotch (Light) | Orange, Aromatic |
| Scotch (Smoky) | Chocolate, Spiced |
Beyond the Bitters: Other Key Ingredients and Techniques
While bitters play a crucial role, the other ingredients and techniques used in an Old Fashioned are equally important.
Sugar: Choosing the Right Sweetener
The traditional Old Fashioned uses a sugar cube, muddled with the bitters and a small amount of water. However, some bartenders prefer to use simple syrup or agave nectar. The choice is a matter of personal preference. A sugar cube provides a more textured and nuanced sweetness, while simple syrup offers consistency and ease of use.
Water: Dilution is Key
A small amount of water is essential for dissolving the sugar and integrating the flavors. Some bartenders use plain water, while others prefer sparkling water or club soda for a slightly effervescent twist.
Garnish: The Finishing Touch
The classic Old Fashioned garnish is an orange peel. Expressing the oils from the peel over the drink adds a burst of citrus aroma and flavor. Some bartenders also add a cherry, although this is a point of contention among purists.
Muddling: Gentle Pressure, Not Destruction
When muddling the sugar and bitters, use gentle pressure to combine the ingredients without pulverizing them. Over-muddling can release bitter compounds from the citrus peel.
Stirring: The Final Integration
After adding the whiskey and ice, stir the drink gently to chill and dilute it. Avoid shaking, as this can over-dilute the drink and create unwanted foam.
Crafting Your Perfect Old Fashioned: A Journey of Discovery
Ultimately, the best kind of bitters for an Old Fashioned is the one that you enjoy the most. This guide provides a starting point, but the real fun lies in experimentation and discovery. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations of bitters, whiskies, and techniques. Crafting the perfect Old Fashioned is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the process, explore your palate, and enjoy the results. The Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it’s a canvas for your creativity. So grab your favorite whiskey, your bitters of choice, and start experimenting. You might just discover your new favorite drink.
What is the most traditional type of bitters to use in an Old Fashioned?
The most traditional and widely accepted bitters for an Old Fashioned are Angostura bitters. These aromatic bitters, with their complex blend of botanicals, contribute a depth of flavor and a balancing bitterness that complements the whiskey and sugar beautifully. Their distinctive taste is considered a cornerstone of the classic Old Fashioned profile, lending it a warmth and spice that elevates the drink beyond a simple spirit and sweetener combination.
Using Angostura bitters provides a historical connection to the Old Fashioned’s origins. It offers a familiar and recognizable flavor profile that most enthusiasts associate with a well-made Old Fashioned. While experimentation is encouraged, Angostura bitters remain the benchmark against which other bitters are often judged within this iconic cocktail.
Can I use other types of bitters besides Angostura in an Old Fashioned?
Absolutely! While Angostura bitters are the traditional choice, the world of bitters is vast and diverse, offering countless opportunities for experimentation and customization. Using different bitters can dramatically alter the flavor profile of your Old Fashioned, allowing you to tailor it to your personal preferences or to complement the specific whiskey you’re using.
For example, orange bitters can add a bright citrus note, while chocolate bitters can introduce a rich, decadent element. Walnut bitters bring a nutty complexity, and cherry bitters can enhance fruity notes in the whiskey. Don’t be afraid to explore different combinations and find what you enjoy most. Just remember that the key is balance; you want the bitters to complement the whiskey, not overpower it.
How many dashes of bitters should I use in an Old Fashioned?
A general guideline is to use two to three dashes of Angostura bitters in an Old Fashioned. This amount typically provides a good balance of bitterness and complexity without being overwhelming. However, the exact amount can vary depending on your personal preference and the potency of the bitters you are using.
If you are experimenting with different types of bitters, you may need to adjust the number of dashes accordingly. Some bitters are more concentrated than others, so start with a smaller amount and taste as you go, adding more until you achieve the desired flavor profile. Remember, it’s always easier to add more bitters than to take them away!
What are some popular bitters combinations for an Old Fashioned?
One popular combination is to use both Angostura and orange bitters. This adds a layer of complexity and brightness to the drink, enhancing the citrus notes and balancing the spice of the Angostura. The ratio can be adjusted to your liking, but a common starting point is one dash of orange bitters and two dashes of Angostura bitters.
Another interesting combination is Angostura bitters with chocolate bitters. This creates a richer, more decadent Old Fashioned that is perfect for dessert or for those who enjoy sweeter cocktails. Experimenting with these combinations, and others, allows you to create your unique and personalized Old Fashioned experience.
How do I choose the right bitters to pair with a specific whiskey in an Old Fashioned?
Consider the inherent flavor profile of the whiskey you’re using. If it’s a high-rye bourbon with spicy notes, Angostura bitters will complement those flavors beautifully. A wheated bourbon, known for its softer and sweeter character, might benefit from a touch of orange bitters to add brightness and balance.
For rye whiskey, which often has a bolder and spicier flavor, consider using a combination of Angostura and Peychaud’s bitters to add complexity and a hint of anise. Ultimately, the best way to find the perfect pairing is to experiment and taste different combinations until you discover what works best for your palate and the specific whiskey you’re using.
Are there any bitters that should be avoided in an Old Fashioned?
Generally, avoid bitters that are overly sweet or have artificial flavors, as these can clash with the spirit and create an unbalanced cocktail. Bitters that are excessively bitter without any complexity can also be overpowering and unpleasant. It’s important to choose bitters that complement the whiskey and add to the overall flavor profile.
Additionally, while experimentation is encouraged, proceed with caution when using highly unconventional or overly pungent bitters. These can easily dominate the drink and mask the flavors of the whiskey. Always start with a small amount and taste as you go to avoid ruining your Old Fashioned.
Where can I find different types of bitters to experiment with?
Many well-stocked liquor stores carry a variety of bitters beyond Angostura. Look for specialty shops that focus on cocktail ingredients or online retailers that specialize in bitters and other bar supplies. Craft distilleries sometimes produce their own unique bitters as well.
When exploring different bitters, consider purchasing smaller bottles or sample packs to experiment with a wider range of flavors without making a large investment. This allows you to discover your preferences and find the perfect bitters to enhance your Old Fashioned experience. Online reviews and bartender recommendations can also be valuable resources for discovering new and interesting bitters.