Are you a fan of old-fashioned cocktails? If so, then you’re probably familiar with the IBA official cocktail recipe for an Old Fashioned. But what exactly is an Old Fashioned, and why is it such a classic drink?
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take a closer look at the Old Fashioned cocktail, its history, and the IBA-approved recipe for making the perfect drink. We’ll also answer some common questions about the Old Fashioned, including why Wisconsin uses brandy in their version, and what the best alcohol is for making an Old Fashioned. So grab a glass and let’s get started!
The Old-Fashioned IBA Recipe: How to Make This Classic Cocktail
If you’re a classic cocktail lover, you’ve probably heard of the Old-Fashioned. It’s a time-honored drink served in bars and restaurants all over the world. The recipe for this cocktail can vary from place to place, but the essential ingredients remain the same: sugar, bitters, whiskey, and an orange peel. In this subsection, we’ll explore the classic recipe for an Old-Fashioned IBA cocktail and walk you through how to make one yourself.
The Ingredients You Need
Making an Old-Fashioned is not difficult, but you need to have the right ingredients. You’ll need:
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes of Angostura Bitters
- 1 orange peel
- 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey
- Ice
- A mixing glass or shaker
- A strainer
- A lowball glass
The Instructions
Once you have all the ingredients handy, it’s time to make the Old-Fashioned IBA cocktail. Here are the instructions:
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Place the sugar cube at the bottom of the mixing glass or shaker.
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Add two dashes of Angostura Bitters onto the sugar cube.
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Muddle the sugar cube and bitters together until they become a paste.
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Add the 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey.
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Stir the mixture together with a spoon until the sugar has fully dissolved.
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Add ice to the mixing glass or shaker.
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Stir the mixture once again until the drink is well-chilled.
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Use a strainer to pour the mixture into a lowball glass.
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Squeeze an orange peel over the drink to release the oils, then drop it into the glass.
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Give the Old-Fashioned a gentle stir, and it’s ready to drink!
Tips for Making the Perfect Old-Fashioned
If you want to take your Old-Fashioned to the next level, here are some tips to keep in mind:
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Use a high-quality bourbon or rye whiskey to bring out the best flavors in the cocktail.
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Adjust the amount of sugar and bitters according to your preferred taste.
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Don’t over-muddle the sugar and bitters, or the drink will become overly sweet and bitter.
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Make sure to chill the drink well to enhance the flavors.
With these tips and the classic Old-Fashioned IBA recipe, you’re well on your way to making one of the most iconic cocktails in history. So go ahead, give it a try, and impress your friends with your bartending skills!
Old Fashioned IBA Recipe: Making the Classic Cocktail
When it comes to classic cocktails, few are as beloved as the Old Fashioned. This timeless drink is a staple of any good bar, and for good reason – it’s simple, elegant, and delicious. In this subsection, we’ll take a look at what makes the Old Fashioned so special and provide you with an easy-to-follow recipe that will take you back to the golden age of cocktails.
The Classic Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned has been around for over a century, and it has remained popular throughout the years due to its simplicity and versatility. It is made with just a few ingredients – whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water – and can be easily customized to suit your taste preferences.
Choosing Your Whiskey
The most important ingredient in an Old Fashioned is the whiskey, and choosing the right one is crucial to making a delicious cocktail. You’ll want to choose a whiskey that is smooth and full-flavored, as this will provide the backbone for your drink. Bourbon is a classic choice, but rye whiskey is also a great option for those who prefer a spicier flavor profile.
Adding Sweetness and Complexity
Once you’ve chosen your whiskey, it’s time to add some sweetness and complexity to your cocktail. This is done by adding a sugar cube or simple syrup – a mixture of equal parts sugar and water – and a few dashes of bitters. Angostura bitters are the most traditional choice, but feel free to experiment with different varieties to find your perfect balance of sweetness and spice.
Finishing Touches
To finish your Old Fashioned, you’ll want to add a few drops of water – enough to dilute the sugar and help the bitters blend with the whiskey – and garnish with a twist of citrus peel or a Maraschino cherry. This simple garnish adds a touch of sophistication to your drink and provides a subtle hint of sweetness that complements the whiskey perfectly.
Making the Old Fashioned Your Own
While the classic Old Fashioned recipe is a great starting point, don’t be afraid to experiment and make the cocktail your own. Try substituting different types of whiskey or bitters, or add a splash of soda water for a bit of fizz. With a little creativity, you can create a version of the Old Fashioned that is uniquely your own.
The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic cocktails of all time, and it’s easy to see why. Its simplicity and versatility make it a favorite among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike. With our easy-to-follow recipe and a bit of experimentation, you too can create a delicious Old Fashioned that will transport you back to the golden age of cocktails. Cheers!
What is an IBA Official Cocktail?
If you have never heard about the IBA (International Bartenders Association) or their official cocktails, then you’re missing out on a lot. IBA has a list of official cocktails that are recognized worldwide as must-try drinks. These cocktails are the epitome of bartending excellence and the result of years of fine-tuning by some of the most skilled mixologists from around the world.
What are the Criteria for an IBA Official Cocktail?
The IBA has a set of criteria that cocktails must meet to be considered official. These criteria include:
- The cocktail must have at least three ingredients
- At least two of the ingredients must be alcoholic
- The cocktail must be available worldwide
- The cocktail must have a historical or contemporary significance
- The cocktail must be recognized as a classic in its country of origin
Examples of IBA Official Cocktails
The IBA currently has over 70 official cocktails on their list. Here are some examples of the most popular ones:
Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around since the late 1800s. It is a simple drink that consists of sugar, bitters, whiskey, and a twist of citrus. The Old Fashioned is perfect for sipping on a cold evening or when you want to impress your friends with your bartending skills.
Margarita
The Margarita is a refreshing cocktail that has become a staple at bars and parties around the world. It consists of tequila, lime juice, and triple sec. The Margarita is perfect for hot summer days when you want something sweet, tart, and refreshing.
Cosmopolitan
The Cosmopolitan became famous when it was featured on the popular TV show, Sex and the City. It is a mix of vodka, cranberry juice, lime juice, and triple sec. The Cosmopolitan is perfect for sipping with your girlfriends on a night out.
Now that you know what an IBA official cocktail is and what the criteria are, you can have fun trying out different cocktails and impressing your friends with your bartending skills. Remember, always drink responsibly and enjoy your cocktails in moderation!
Why Does Wisconsin Use Brandy in Old Fashioned?
When it comes to creating the perfect old fashioned cocktail, many bartenders and mixologists have their secret ingredient or special twist. But why is it that in Wisconsin, brandy is the go-to liquor for an old fashioned? Let’s take a look.
The History of Brandy in Wisconsin
It’s no secret that Wisconsin loves its brandy. In fact, the state consumes more brandy per capita than any other state in the United States. But how did this love affair with brandy begin?
According to legend, during prohibition, Wisconsinites would mix brandy with whatever they had on hand to create a drink that would mask the harsh taste of bathtub gin. This lead to the birth of the Wisconsin-style old fashioned, which is made with brandy instead of whiskey.
The Rise of the Wisconsin-Style Old Fashioned
While the rest of the country adapted the traditional whiskey-based old fashioned, Wisconsin held strong to its love of brandy. Today, the Wisconsin-style old fashioned is so popular that it’s considered the state drink.
When ordering an old fashioned in Wisconsin, it’s assumed you want the Wisconsin-style, unless specified otherwise. The drink is traditionally made with brandy, sugar, bitters, a splash of soda water, and a garnish of maraschino cherries and oranges.
The Unique Flavor of Brandy in an Old Fashioned
So, why does brandy work so well in an old fashioned? The answer lies in the unique flavor profile of brandy. Brandy is made from distilled wine, which gives it a fruitiness and complexity that pairs nicely with the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the bitters in an old fashioned.
When mixed with soda water, the brandy becomes more mellow and helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients in the drink. The result is a sweet and refreshing cocktail that’s perfect for sipping on a warm summer day.
While the rest of the country may look down on the Wisconsin-style old fashioned, there’s no denying the popularity and deliciousness of this cocktail. So next time you’re in Wisconsin and want to order an old fashioned, make sure to specify that you want the Wisconsin-style with brandy. Cheers!
What’s the Best Alcohol for Your Old Fashioned IBA Recipe?
If you’re reading this, you’re probably wondering what the best alcohol to mix with your Old Fashioned IBA recipe is. Well, my friend, you’re in luck because I’ve got some banter to dish out just for you.
Bourbon: The Classic
Now, when in doubt, go with the classic. Bourbon is the traditional choice that most people opt for when making an Old Fashioned. Its rich, smoky, and slightly sweet notes complement the bitters, sugar, and orange peel flavors in the recipe.
Not all bourbons are created equal, though. Some are oaky, some are spicy, and some have a bit of a kick. A reliable bottle of bourbon that you can invest in is Maker’s Mark, which smoothens things out in a good way.
Rye: For the Adventurous
Rye is a grain that offers a spicier flavor profile than bourbon and has its fan base. Rye is an excellent choice if you want to add a bit of kick to your cocktail. Rye allows the bitter and sweet elements to engage and dance in harmony on your tongue because of its prevalent spiciness.
When it comes to rye, brands like Wild Turkey and Bulleit come to mind as a solid investment.
Cognac: For the Ballers
Cognac, anyone? Yeah, you heard me right. Swap the whiskey with cognac, and you’ve got yourself a classier cocktail, my friend. Cognac is best suited for those who demand a luxurious spin on their old fashioned.
Cognac’s taste is not for everyone, as each of them has its characteristics and flavor profiles, but go for Rémy Martin or Hennessy if you’re feeling flashy.
Scotch: For the Bold
Have you ever considered making a Scotch Old Fashioned? It’s not for the faint of heart. If you choose Scotch, bear in mind that it will have a more pronounced, smoky flavor compared to Bourbon. If you like peat, then this is the right choice.
Scotch can be an acquired taste that not everyone will enjoy. Stick with the classics, such as Johnnie Walker Black Label and Chivas Regal.
In conclusion, the best alcohol to make an old fashioned with will come down to your preference. It all depends on what flavor you desire, how much of the alcohol’s particular characteristics you want present, and how much you’re willing to spend. So, go ahead, raid your home bar and bring out your mixology skills, and let the drink-making begin!
