Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned – A Purist’s Guide

Ah, the Old Fashioned – one of my favorite cocktails when I fancy something cold, sweet and complex. As any true whisky enthusiast will tell you, the soul of an Old Fashioned lies not just in its simplicity, but in the choice of bourbon that forms its backbone.

With so few ingredients, choosing the right bourbon is paramount to getting the depth and flavor this drink should amply deliver. That said, it can be tough to decide on just one bottle, especially with so many options available on the bourbon scene.

Amazon bourbon deal of the day is just so tempting…

Anyways, whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or a curious newcomer, this guide will equip you with the knowledge to elevate your Old Fashioned game to new heights. So grab your favorite rocks glass, and let’s embark on this bourbon-filled adventure together.

Essential Components of a Classic Old Fashioned

Traditionally, an Old Fashioned is made with robust American whiskey, either a smooth Kentucky bourbon or a spicy rye, depending on your preference. The bourbon’s warmth is balanced with granulated sugar or simple syrup, creating a mellow sweetness that complements the spirit’s depth.

Next, a couple of dashes of aromatic bitters add complexity, while orange bitters provide a subtle citrus note. The drink is stirred with ice until cold and garnished with an orange twist and a maraschino cherry. Some prefer expressing the oil of an orange peel over the glass for a citrus aroma, enriching the sensory experience.

Is Bourbon Better for Old Fashioned?

Traditionally, bourbon is the go-to base spirit for making an Old Fashioned cocktail thanks to it’s inherent sweetness stemming from the high corn percentage (at least 51%). However, you may prefer a spicier kick to your cocktail which you can get from a high-rye bourbon. Either option is considered traditional and interchangeable based on your taste preference.

Now, on with the main event…

9 Best Bourbons for an Impeccable Old Fashioned

#1 Woodford Reserve 

Woodford Reserve is a finely crafted bourbon with a balanced flavor profile, perfect for an Old Fashioned. Its rich amber hue reflects the quality from the iconic pot stills of its distillery. On the nose, it offers dried fruit and orange, with hints of cocoa and spices. Bourbon enthusiasts appreciate Woodford Reserve’s smooth palate, where toffee and vanilla mingle with a subtle tobacco richness, leading to a creamy, lingering finish.

#2 Maker’s Mark 

On the sweeter side of things, the Maker’s Mark distillery forgoes the use of rye in its mash bill and instead opts for soft red winter wheat. This mashbill imparts a milder and sweeter profile that has become the hallmark of this classic bourbon, making it an exceptional choice for an Old Fashioned.

On the nose, Maker’s Mark exudes aromas of soft caramel and vanilla, with a touch of spice that promises warmth. The palate is greeted with a rich and honey-like sweetness, balanced by notes of vanilla and spice, leading to a gentle and pleasing finish that lingers just long enough to invite another sip.

#3 Buffalo Trace 

Considered as a ‘low rye bourbon’ Buffalo Trace brings sweet caramel notes to your Old Fashioned cocktail. Aromas of caramel, vanilla, and a hint of dark chocolate rise from the glass, enticing the senses. The palate unfolds with layers of toasted oak, dark berries, and a balanced undertone of sweetness, culminating in a finish that is satisfying and complex.

#4 Bulleit Bourbon 

If you prefer a bit of spice in your Old Fashioned, Bulleit bourbon is brings the heat with it’s 28% rye mashbill. The bourbon’s color is a rich, russet tone, reflecting the depth of its flavor. The aroma is laden with spice, oak, and hints of maple, hinting at the complexity within. On the palate, the spiciness of the rye is tempered by sweet undertones of vanilla and dried fruit, leading to a long, warming finish that keeps you coming back for more.

#5 Four Roses Single Barrel 

For a punchy Old Fashioned, the 50% ABV (100 proof) of Four Roses Single Barrel is an assertive but flavorful option for tremendous depth and complexity. Personally, I’d stick to your usual measures, taking your time to savor the bold flavors of caramel and vanilla. This bourbon is nicely rounded out by the spice of rye and the subtle complexity of stone fruits, leading to a smooth and velvety finish.

#6 Eagle Rare 

Crafted at the Buffalo Trace Distillery, this straight bourbon whisky is known for its rich aroma of honey and leather, with a charming fruity complexity. On the palate, Eagle Rare offers a symphony of flavors, from candied almonds to ripe fruits, brought together by the homemade simple syrup’s sweetness in an Old Fashioned. The lingering finish leaving a satisfying trail of toasty oak and spice.

#7 Knob Creek Straight Rye Kentucky Bourbon

Made at the Jim Beam distillery in Clermont, Kentucky, Knob Creek Straight Rye is a spicy alternative to their flagship bourbon. Aged for 7 years, this high-rye bourbon has a 51% rye content,  balancing flavors of vanilla, coupled with nutmeg and cinnamon, creating a warm and spicy palate that’s both robust and comforting. Not too spicy, this surprisingly balanced bourbon is a great bet for a tasty Old Fashioned.

#8 Wild Turkey 101 

With higher proof, Wild Turkey 101 delivers a spirited kick that energizes the palate. It has rich amber color with the aroma of toasted oak, vanilla, and spice. The palate offers a robust blend of caramel, spices, and a touch of citrus—elements that complement the bitters within an Old Fashioned.

Interestingly, Wild Turkey use a deeper char on their barrels, giving the bourbon a distinct, intense flavor profile. The finish is long, warm, and pleasantly lingering, ensuring the rich flavors stay with you well after the last sip.

#9 Evan Williams 

At the cheaper end of the market, Evan Williams Extra Aged is a budget friendly choice that still delivers great flavor for an Old Fashioned cocktail. The palate is straightforward and accessible, featuring caramel, hints of apple, and a soft spice that complements the sweet sugar in an Old Fashioned perfectly. It’s an affordable option to have on your shelf when it’s time for making this classic American cocktail.

How to Make the Perfect Old Fashioned

Here’s how to craft the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned:

Ingredients:

• 1 sugar cube
• 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Splash of water
• Ice cubes
• Bourbon of choice (e.g., Four Roses Single Barrel or Evan Williams)
• Orange peel
• Cocktail cherry (optional)

Method:

1. Add a sugar cube to a chilled rocks glass.
2. Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of water to dissolve the sugar.
3. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, muddle the mixture until the sugar is fully dissolved.
4. Fill the glass with ice cubes, leaving enough room for the bourbon.
5. Pour 60ml of your chosen bourbon over the ice.
6. Stir the blend gently to ensure the flavors infuse properly.
7. Take a slice of orange peel and express its oils over the drink by giving it a twist, then drop it into the glass.
8. Optionally, add a cocktail cherry for extra garnish.
9. Serve your perfectly crafted Old Fashioned immediately, allowing the chilled temperature to enhance the straight bourbon whisky’s rich profile

The Best Glassware for an Old Fashioned

The best type of glassware for an Old Fashioned cocktail is undoubtedly the classic rocks glass, also known as an Old Fashioned glass. This short, sturdy glass with a wide mouth and thick base is perfect for muddling ingredients directly in the glass, ensuring an even mix of flavors. Its size allows for a substantial amount of ice, while the wide rim enhances the aromatic experience as you sip. The weight and feel of the rocks glass add a sense of tradition and elegance, making it an ideal choice for this timeless cocktail.

As an alternative, if you don’t have a rocks glass, you can use a whiskey tumbler instead, as it also has a broad base and similar capacity.

Avoid thin, tall glassware such as martini glass or coupe glass. (It’s just plain wrong.)

The Best Bitters for an Old Fashioned

When crafting an Old Fashioned cocktail, the three best types of bitters to consider are Angostura, orange, and Peychaud’s.

Angostura bitters are the most classic choice, offering a robust blend of herbs and spices that enhance an Old Fashioned’s complexity.

Orange bitters provide a bright, citrusy note that complements the sweet and woody flavors of the bourbon, adding a refreshing twist.

Fee Brother’s Old Fashion Aromatic Bitters are a lesser known but  equally delicious option, with a unique mix of spices and notes of vanilla that elevate the cocktail’s depth.

The Best Ice for an Old Fashioned

One large ice cube is best for an Old Fashioned cocktail because it melts more slowly than smaller ice cubes, helping to keep the drink cold without quickly diluting its flavors. The gradual melting process maintains the cocktail’s integrity, allowing you to enjoy the rich and layered flavors longer. Additionally, a single large ice cube adds a more professional look to your drink, giving it a sophisticated and polished appearance.

To make large ice cubes, you can get these affordable trays from Amazon.

However, a really easy win is to simply pre-freeze about ‘a finger’ of water in your designated rocks glass. If you’re entertaining, why not tilt your glassware at 45 degrees for a stylish look?

The History of the Old Fashioned

Originally known as a ‘whiskey cocktail’ the Old Fashioned’s roots can be traced back to the early 19th century when this revered concoction was first stirred to life at the Pendennis Club (a gentlemen’s club) in Louisville, Kentucky. The original recipe was said to have been invented by a bartender named James E. Pepper, who later brought the drink to the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel bar in New York City, cementing its place in cocktail history.

As a symbol of refinement and simplicity, the Old Fashioned has withstood the test of time, captivating drinkers with its straightforward but elegant composition.

Writer’s Choice

When it comes to crafting an exceptional Old Fashioned, Bulleit Bourbon is a standout choice. Thanks to its high rye content, Bulleit offers a bold, spicy flavor profile that cuts through the sweetness of the sugar and balances beautifully with the bitters.

Another excellent bourbon for an Old Fashioned is Maker’s Mark. This bourbon is  known for its wheated smoothness and approachability, making it a sweeter choice of the two. Depending on what I had for dinner, I may veer towards the Maker’s Mark as more of a dessert option.

Hopefully you found this article helpful.

Thanks for dropping by.