The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail, celebrated for its simplicity and depth of flavor. While the classic version remains a favorite, there are countless ways to put a unique spin on this legendary drink. Crafting the perfect Old Fashioned requires high-quality ingredients, precision, and the right tools. Here are 10 amazing variations to elevate your cocktail experience.

1. Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned

The original Old Fashioned is simple yet sophisticated, relying on quality bourbon and carefully balanced flavors. Begin by placing a sugar cube in a glass and soaking it with two dashes of Angostura bitters. Add a splash of water and muddle until the sugar dissolves. Fill the glass with a large ice cube, pour in 2 ounces of your preferred bourbon, and stir gently. Garnish with an expressed orange peel, rubbing it along the rim before dropping it into the glass. This classic method enhances the bourbon’s natural caramel, vanilla, and oak flavors while the bitters add complexity.

2. Rye Whiskey Old Fashioned

For those who prefer a drier, spicier take on the Old Fashioned, rye whiskey is the perfect alternative to bourbon. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of rye whiskey, a teaspoon of simple syrup, and two dashes of Angostura bitters. Fill the glass with ice and stir until well-chilled. Strain into a rocks glass over a fresh ice cube and garnish with a lemon twist. The rye whiskey’s bold spice and peppery notes create a dynamic contrast with the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the bitters.

3. Maple Syrup Old Fashioned

A twist perfect for fall or anyone who enjoys a natural sweetness in their cocktail. Instead of simple syrup or a sugar cube, use a quarter-ounce of pure maple syrup. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, a quarter-ounce of maple syrup, and two dashes of orange bitters. Stir with ice, strain into a glass over a large ice cube, and garnish with an orange peel. The maple syrup adds a rich, slightly smoky sweetness that complements the bourbon’s deep caramel flavors.

4. Smoky Old Fashioned

If you love complex and layered cocktails, the smoky Old Fashioned is a must-try. Use 1.5 ounces of bourbon and 0.5 ounces of Islay Scotch whisky to infuse the drink with a subtle smokiness. Combine the spirits with a teaspoon of simple syrup and two dashes of Angostura bitters in a mixing glass. Stir over ice until chilled, then strain into a glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with a flamed orange peel to enhance the smoky aroma. The peaty Scotch whisky brings a deep, earthy character to the drink, making it perfect for those who enjoy bold flavors.

5. Brandy Old Fashioned (Wisconsin Style)

A beloved variation in Wisconsin, this version swaps whiskey for brandy, resulting in a sweeter and fruitier profile. Start by muddling a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters and a splash of water in a rocks glass. Add ice, pour in 2 ounces of brandy, and stir gently. For an authentic Wisconsin touch, top with a splash of lemon-lime soda or club soda. Garnish with an orange slice and a cherry. The brandy’s smooth and sweet nature blends beautifully with the bright citrus flavors, making this a refreshing take on the classic.

6. Chocolate Old Fashioned

A decadent variation ideal for chocolate lovers. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, a teaspoon of simple syrup, and two dashes each of Angostura and chocolate bitters. Stir over ice until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist for a hint of citrus aroma. The chocolate bitters provide a velvety richness that pairs wonderfully with the bourbon’s deep caramel and vanilla notes.

7. Coffee Old Fashioned

A great option for coffee enthusiasts, this variation infuses the bold flavors of coffee into the classic cocktail. Mix 2 ounces of bourbon, a half-ounce of coffee liqueur, and two dashes of orange bitters in a mixing glass. Stir with ice until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an expressed orange peel to enhance the aroma. The combination of whiskey and coffee creates a warm and robust drink with a slightly bitter yet smooth finish.

8. Spiced Old Fashioned

Perfect for winter or the holiday season, this variation incorporates warm spices for an extra layer of flavor. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, a teaspoon of simple syrup, and two dashes of Angostura bitters. Add a cinnamon stick and a whole clove, then stir over ice until well chilled. Strain into a glass over fresh ice and garnish with an orange peel. The spices infuse the drink with cozy, festive flavors that make it ideal for sipping by the fireplace.

9. Calvados Old Fashioned

For an apple-infused variation, replace bourbon with Calvados, a French apple brandy. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of Calvados, a teaspoon of honey syrup, and two dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir over ice until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a thin apple slice. This version brings a fruity, slightly floral character to the Old Fashioned, making it a refreshing and aromatic twist.

10. Black Walnut Old Fashioned

Add depth and a hint of nuttiness to your Old Fashioned with black walnut bitters. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, a teaspoon of demerara syrup, and two dashes each of Angostura and black walnut bitters. Stir over ice until well chilled, then strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a lemon twist to brighten up the drink. The black walnut bitters create a rich, slightly earthy complexity that enhances the whiskey’s profile beautifully.

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11. Smoked Honey Old Fashioned

This version introduces a deep, smoky sweetness by incorporating smoked honey syrup. To make the syrup, gently heat honey with a touch of water and infuse it with wood chips using a smoking gun. Once the syrup is ready, mix 2 ounces of bourbon, a quarter-ounce of smoked honey syrup, and two dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a charred cinnamon stick for an added smoky aroma. This variation is perfect for those who enjoy bold, layered flavors in their cocktails.

12. Tequila Old Fashioned

A surprising but delicious twist, this variation swaps whiskey for aged añejo tequila, which has smooth vanilla and caramel notes. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of añejo tequila, a teaspoon of agave syrup, and two dashes of orange bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist and a pinch of smoked sea salt. The tequila brings a vibrant depth to the classic Old Fashioned, making it an excellent choice for tequila lovers.

13. Rum Old Fashioned

For a tropical spin, substitute whiskey with a high-quality dark rum. Combine 2 ounces of dark rum, a teaspoon of demerara syrup, and two dashes of aromatic bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with a lime peel or a brûléed orange slice. The rum’s rich molasses and spice notes make this a smooth, slightly sweeter alternative to the traditional version.

14. Cherry Vanilla Old Fashioned

A fruity and aromatic take on the Old Fashioned, this version incorporates cherry and vanilla flavors. Start by muddling a few brandied cherries with a teaspoon of vanilla syrup in a mixing glass. Add 2 ounces of bourbon, two dashes of cherry bitters, and ice. Stir until well-chilled and strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a cherry and a vanilla bean pod. The cherry and vanilla create a dessert-like balance while maintaining the classic cocktail’s strong backbone.

15. Japanese Whisky Old Fashioned

For a refined and delicate variation, use a high-quality Japanese whisky, known for its smooth and slightly floral characteristics. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of Japanese whisky, a teaspoon of honey syrup, and two dashes of orange bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a lemon twist and a dried cherry. The lighter, more nuanced flavors of Japanese whisky make this a refreshing and elegant take on the classic

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16. Coconut Old Fashioned

For a tropical twist, coconut-infused bourbon adds a smooth, nutty sweetness to the Old Fashioned. To make coconut-infused bourbon, steep shredded coconut in bourbon for 24 hours, then strain. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of the infused bourbon, a teaspoon of demerara syrup, and two dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a toasted coconut flake or a lime twist. This version is ideal for summer sipping.

17. Pistachio Old Fashioned

Nut lovers will enjoy this rich and creamy variation. Make pistachio syrup by blending roasted pistachios with simple syrup and straining it. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, a quarter-ounce of pistachio syrup, and two dashes of walnut bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with crushed pistachios and an orange peel. The nutty flavors complement the whiskey’s deep caramel notes beautifully.

18. Amaro Old Fashioned

This version incorporates an Italian amaro to bring herbal complexity. Mix 1.5 ounces of bourbon with 0.5 ounces of amaro (such as Averna or Montenegro), a teaspoon of simple syrup, and two dashes of orange bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with an orange twist. The amaro adds bitterness, depth, and a slightly herbal quality to the drink, making it a more sophisticated alternative.

19. Fig & Cinnamon Old Fashioned

A fall-inspired variation that enhances the drink’s warm, spicy elements. Muddle a dried fig with a teaspoon of honey syrup and a dash of cinnamon in a mixing glass. Add 2 ounces of bourbon and two dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a glass over a large ice cube. Garnish with a cinnamon stick and a dried fig slice. The natural sweetness of figs pairs wonderfully with the warmth of cinnamon and whiskey.

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20. Earl Grey Old Fashioned

Tea lovers will appreciate this elegant take on the Old Fashioned. Make Earl Grey syrup by steeping Earl Grey tea in simple syrup for 10 minutes. In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of bourbon, a quarter-ounce of Earl Grey syrup, and two dashes of orange bitters. Stir over ice and strain into a glass with a large ice cube. Garnish with a lemon twist. The bergamot notes in Earl Grey add a delicate floral complexity to the drink.

Conclusion

The Old Fashioned is a drink that has stood the test of time, offering endless possibilities for customization. Whether you prefer the classic version or enjoy experimenting with new flavors, there is an Old Fashioned recipe for everyone. By using high-quality spirits, fresh ingredients, and the right bar tools, you can elevate your cocktail-making skills and impress guests with expertly crafted drinks. Try these variations, refine your own signature twist, and enjoy the timeless sophistication of the Old Fashioned. Cheers!