Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned Cocktails
The Old Fashioned is one of the most revered cocktails in history. Simple yet sophisticated, it combines the richness of bourbon with bitters, sugar, and a citrus twist, creating a balanced, timeless drink. However, the key to making an exceptional Old Fashioned lies in the quality of the bourbon you choose. Bourbon, with its distinct caramel, vanilla, and oak notes, serves as the backbone of this cocktail, and choosing the right one can elevate your Old Fashioned from good to unforgettable.
In this article, we’ll explore the best bourbons for Old Fashioned cocktails, whether you’re a bourbon enthusiast or new to this iconic drink. We’ll cover flavor profiles, price points, and expert recommendations to help you craft a cocktail that suits your taste preferences.
1. Understanding Bourbon for an Old Fashioned
Before diving into the best options, it’s important to understand what makes bourbon ideal for an Old Fashioned. Bourbon must be made from at least 51% corn, giving it a sweet, rich flavor. The remaining grains in the mash bill, such as rye, barley, or wheat, will determine the additional flavor notes, such as spiciness or smoothness.
A good Old Fashioned requires a bourbon that complements the bitters and sugar but doesn’t overpower them. The right bourbon should have a balance of sweetness and spice, with enough complexity to make the drink interesting.
Key Flavor Components to Consider:
- Sweetness: Caramel, honey, and vanilla notes in the bourbon should complement the sweetness from the sugar cube or syrup used in the cocktail.
- Spice: Rye-forward bourbons add a peppery bite that works well with the bitters, creating complexity in the drink.
- Oak: Aging in charred oak barrels imparts a smoky, woody character to bourbon, which can add depth to your Old Fashioned.
- Smoothness: A smooth bourbon ensures a balanced drink without harsh edges.
2. Top Bourbons for an Old Fashioned
Now that we know what to look for in a bourbon, let’s explore some of the top choices. Whether you prefer a spicier profile or a sweeter, smoother experience, there’s a bourbon for every Old Fashioned aficionado.
1. Buffalo Trace
Flavor Profile: Vanilla, caramel, oak, and a touch of mint
Price Range: $30-$40
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Buffalo Trace offers a well-rounded flavor profile that hits all the right notes. Its balanced sweetness, subtle spice, and oakiness blend perfectly with the sugar and bitters, creating a smooth, classic Old Fashioned. It’s also reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for those who enjoy quality without breaking the bank.
2. Woodford Reserve
Flavor Profile: Rich caramel, dark chocolate, dried fruit, and spicy rye
Price Range: $40-$50
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Woodford Reserve is known for its complex, full-bodied flavor. The spicy rye content adds a peppery kick, while the sweetness of caramel and chocolate gives it a luxurious feel. This bourbon’s rich and robust nature holds its own in an Old Fashioned, making every sip an indulgence.
3. Bulleit Bourbon
Flavor Profile: High rye content, pepper, citrus, and light vanilla
Price Range: $25-$35
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Bulleit is a favorite for those who like their Old Fashioned with a bit of spice. The high rye content gives it a bold, peppery finish that pairs beautifully with bitters, while the citrus notes complement the orange twist often used in the cocktail. It’s a versatile bourbon that’s perfect for those who enjoy a spicier drink.
4. Maker’s Mark
Flavor Profile: Buttery toffee, vanilla, and soft oak
Price Range: $30-$40
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Maker’s Mark is a wheated bourbon, which means it’s smoother and sweeter compared to rye-heavy options. Its soft, buttery flavor is perfect for those who prefer a more mellow, approachable Old Fashioned. The lack of sharpness makes it an excellent choice for newcomers to bourbon or those who prefer a lighter cocktail.
5. Knob Creek
Flavor Profile: Rich caramel, vanilla, oak, and a hint of spice
Price Range: $40-$50
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Knob Creek is a bold, high-proof bourbon that packs a punch. Its robust flavor profile, with intense caramel and vanilla, makes it ideal for an Old Fashioned. The higher alcohol content ensures the flavors remain prominent even when mixed with bitters and sugar, creating a cocktail with depth and character.
6. Old Forester 100
Flavor Profile: Bold spice, oak, dark chocolate, and dried fruit
Price Range: $25-$35
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Old Forester 100 offers exceptional value with its rich and complex flavor profile. The bold spice and dark fruit notes make for a robust Old Fashioned that stands up to any garnish or additional flavors you might add. The 100-proof ensures the bourbon isn’t overshadowed by the bitters or sugar, delivering a strong yet balanced cocktail.
7. Elijah Craig Small Batch
Flavor Profile: Toasted oak, caramel, cinnamon, and baking spices
Price Range: $30-$40
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Elijah Craig Small Batch is known for its warm, spicy character, making it perfect for an Old Fashioned with a little more depth. The toasted oak and cinnamon complement the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the cocktail, creating a well-rounded, flavorful drink.
3. Affordable Bourbons for Old Fashioned Cocktails
While premium bourbons can certainly elevate an Old Fashioned, there are many affordable options that still deliver on flavor. If you’re hosting a large gathering or simply want to enjoy a great cocktail without spending a fortune, here are some budget-friendly bourbons that don’t skimp on quality:
1. Evan Williams Black Label
Flavor Profile: Sweet caramel, vanilla, and oak
Price Range: $15-$20
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Evan Williams Black Label is a solid budget option that performs well in an Old Fashioned. Its sweet, smooth flavor profile works harmoniously with the cocktail’s other ingredients, making it a great choice for those looking to save money without sacrificing taste.
2. Wild Turkey 101
Flavor Profile: Bold spice, vanilla, caramel, and oak
Price Range: $25-$30
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Wild Turkey 101 is a high-proof bourbon with a bold, spicy flavor. It’s an affordable option that offers complexity and depth, ensuring your Old Fashioned has plenty of character. The higher alcohol content helps the bourbon stand out, even when mixed with sugar and bitters.
3. Four Roses Bourbon
Flavor Profile: Honey, fresh fruit, and light spice
Price Range: $25-$35
Why It’s Great for an Old Fashioned: Four Roses is known for its light, fruity character, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a brighter, more refreshing Old Fashioned. Its delicate flavor profile complements the citrus twist typically added to the cocktail, creating a drink that’s both light and flavorful.
4. How to Choose the Right Bourbon for Your Taste
With so many great bourbons available, how do you choose the best one for your Old Fashioned? Here are a few tips to help you make the right choice based on your flavor preferences:
- For a Sweeter Old Fashioned: Opt for bourbons with a higher corn content or those that use wheat instead of rye in their mash bill, such as Maker’s Mark or Weller Special Reserve.
- For a Spicier Old Fashioned: Choose a rye-forward bourbon like Bulleit or Knob Creek for a more robust, peppery kick.
- For a Balanced Old Fashioned: Bourbons like Buffalo Trace or Elijah Craig offer a nice mix of sweetness, spice, and oak, making them ideal for a well-rounded cocktail.
5. Crafting the Perfect Old Fashioned
Once you’ve selected your bourbon, it’s time to craft the perfect Old Fashioned. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 sugar cube or 1/2 tsp simple syrup
- 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Ice (preferably a large cube)
Instructions:
- Muddle the sugar and bitters in a glass until dissolved (if using simple syrup, simply combine the syrup and bitters).
- Add a large ice cube to the glass.
- Pour in the bourbon and stir gently to combine.
- Express the oils from the orange peel by gently twisting it over the drink, then drop it into the glass as a garnish.
Conclusion
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that can be tailored to suit your personal taste, and the choice of bourbon plays a significant role in its overall flavor. Whether you prefer a sweeter, smoother drink or a bold, spicy one, there’s a bourbon out there that’s perfect for your Old Fashioned. From the rich, caramel notes of Buffalo Trace to the peppery bite of Bulleit, the best bourbon for your Old Fashioned is the one that matches
