The Old Fashioned has been around since the 1800s, and for good reason—it’s simple, timeless, and endlessly adaptable. Over the years, people have gotten creative, adding fruity flavors, nutty notes, and seasonal twists.
These days, bartenders add modern touches to the classic recipe while staying true to its roots. And it’s no surprise the Old Fashioned has its own day of celebration—National Old Fashioned Day on June 14th, a perfect excuse to raise a glass to this iconic drink.
In this article, I’ve listed the 10 best Old Fashioned recipes. Our bartender production team crafted over 100 variations and narrowed it down to these top 10. You can find each recipe on the individual cocktail pages—just click on the cocktail image to explore more.
How to Serve an Old Fashioned?
An Old Fashioned is traditionally served in a rocks or Old Fashioned glass.
It’s stirred, not shaken, and poured over ice cubes. A lot of bars nowadays prefer using a single large, clear ice cube as it melts slower and keeps the drink cold for a longer time without overdiluting it. This cocktail is meant to be enjoyed slowly, letting the whiskey mellow as the ice melts, mixing with the sugar and bitters.
Top 10 Old Fashioned Variations with Easy Recipes
Classic Old Fashioned
The heart of the Old Fashioned is quality whiskey, traditionally bourbon or rye. Bourbon brings a rich, smooth sweetness, while rye offers a drier, spicier profile. Either way, whiskey remains the star. The sugar softens the whiskey, the bitters add depth, and the citrus oils (in the garnish) give it a finishing touch. Every element has a role, but none dominate. This balance is why the Old Fashioned has stood the test of time.
Oaxaca Old Fashioned
This modern twist, created in 2007 by Phil Ward at Death & Co., NYC, brings mezcal to the forefront. It offers a smoky, earthy profile distinct from the whiskey base of the original. Mezcal’s bold flavors are softened with a hint of agave sweetness and enhanced with bitters (originally Angostura bitters, but feel free to get creative in your own version, using chocolate or mole bitters for example), creating a layered and balanced cocktail. Perfect for late summer or fall evenings where a smoky warmth feels just right.
Rum Old Fashioned
This option introduces aged rum for a smooth, tropical sweetness with subtle spice notes. A touch of sugar or demerara sugar syrup complements the natural richness of the rum, while bitters add complexity – again, feel free to experiment with your favorite bitters, or even with a mix of them. It’s a great choice for spring and summer nights, and it can be adapted to taste using any of your favorite rums.
Brandy Old Fashioned
This drink has a warmer, more approachable take on the traditional recipe. The whiskey is swapped for brandy (Cognac, Applejack, Armagnac…), creating a softer, fruitier, rich, yet smooth profile. This variation is especially popular in the Midwest and is a popular choice for those who enjoy a slightly sweeter, fruitier cocktail.
Maple Old Fashioned
This drink substitutes traditional sugar with maple syrup, adding a rich, earthy sweetness with a hint of nutty warmth. The maple’s depth pairs well with whiskey, deepening the flavors and giving the cocktail a smooth, cozy quality. Bitters balance the sweetness, while a twist of citrus completes the drink.
Benton’s Old Fashioned
Another popular twist is the Benton’s Old Fashioned, which follows the same recipe as the Maple Old Fashioned but calls for bacon fat-washed Bourbon instead of regular bourbon. Created in 2008 by Don Lee at PDT (Please Don’t Tell) in NYC, this is a modern classic to try if you like sweet & savory flavors.
Cachaça Old Fashioned
This one uses cachaça, a Brazilian spirit made from sugarcane juice, giving the cocktail a fresh, grassy sweetness. This version is lighter and slightly tropical, with a flavor profile that brings out the natural, raw sugar notes of cachaça, balanced with bitters to add a hint of spice. Perfect for summer afternoons or beach-themed gatherings, it can be prepared using either regular or aged cachaça for a smoother, rounder flavor profile.
Coffee Old Fashioned
The Coffee Old Fashioned adds a robust, earthy twist by incorporating coffee flavors. There are several ways of incorporating the coffee flavor to your drink: you can substitute the sugar with coffee liqueurs, use coffee bitters or add a splash of cold brew to the drink, prior to stirring. Coffee enhances the cocktail’s depth, complementing the whiskey’s warmth and richness – although it works very well with bourbon, we recommend also trying this one with rye whisky for an extra spicy kick. Ideal for coffee lovers and a perfect choice for brunches or as an after-dinner drink.
Smoked Old Fashioned
Here a smoky aroma and taste is introduced by infusing the cocktail with a subtle layer of smoke. This variation keeps the traditional flavors intact while adding a new sensory element. The smokiness makes it a sophisticated choice for colder seasons, especially around a fire or at evening events where a bolder, warming drink is appreciated.
Scotch Old Fashioned
Although traditionally made with American whiskey, Old Fashioned are equally delicious when prepared using Scotch whisky. Make your own twist on the Old Fashioned by mixing your favorite single malt (or several of them), bitters and sugar. Pro tip: add a touch of peated scotch to the mix for a peated, complex twist on this timeless classic.
Garnish and Presentation Tips
Just like for every cocktail, the garnish and presentation can enhance an Old Fashioned’s flavor and style. Here are some ideas to step up your Old Fashioned game:
- Traditional vs. Unique Garnishes
Traditional garnishes for an Old Fashioned include an orange zest twist or a cherry. For a unique spin, try a sprig of rosemary, which adds an herbal note, a cinnamon stick for warmth or even a chocolate on the side for a small food pairing garnish. - Glassware and Ice
The classic Old Fashioned is served in a rocks glass, typically with one large ice cube or a sphere to keep the drink cold without too much dilution. For added flair, try using flavored ice cubes—like coffee, citrus, or herb-infused ice—that slowly release flavor as they melt, enhancing the drink’s complexity. - Presentation Tips
Presentation can make a big impact. Consider using a smoked glass for a subtle hint of smokiness, rimming the edge of the glass with a spice like cinnamon or sugar, or adding an edible flower as a final touch. Each of these can make the Old Fashioned feel special and visually appealing.
DIY Old Fashioned Variations: Experimenting at Home
Creating your own Old Fashioned variations at home can be a fun way to explore new flavors and make your own version. Here are some ideas to get started:
- Creating Your Own Twist
Start with the classic Old Fashioned recipe, and adjust one ingredient at a time to create a custom version. Swap the whiskey for another spirit, add flavored syrup, or try a new garnish. Experimenting with small changes lets you find your ideal flavor balance. - Experimenting with Bitters & Sweeteners
Bitters are crucial in an Old Fashioned, so trying different types (and quantities) can bring out unique flavors. Options like chocolate, orange, or even cardamom bitters can change the drink’s profile. Consider using honey, maple syrup, or agave for a different taste for sweeteners. Liqueurs and homemade syrups are also good options if you’re feeling extra crafty!
For more types and variations of classic drinks: Go to Types of Martini – Types of Margarita – Negroni Variations – Paloma Variations
FAQs
What’s the Best Way to Make a Large-Batch Old Fashioneds?
Combine whiskey, bitters, and sugar syrup in a pitcher, stir well then chill before serving over ice with a garnish. This method retains the classic taste while simplifying serving for a crowd.
How Can I Make a Low-Sugar Old Fashioned?
Replace sugar with a small amount of low-calorie sweetener or reduce the sugar and let the whiskey’s natural sweetness shine.
How Do You Make a Non-Alcoholic Old Fashioned?
Substitute whiskey with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative, such as Lyre’s American Malt or Monday Zero Alcohol Whiskey, and add bitters and sugar syrup for a spirit-free version.
