A Short History of the Old Fashioned: A Classic Cocktail's Journey

Looking at the Old Fashioned history, one thing is crystal clear—sometimes simple really is best. This classic cocktail, made with just whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a touch of citrus, has endured over time. 

Now a well-known staple in bars and homes all around the globe, its endless popularity lies in its perfect balance and straightforward elegance. No frills here, bestie, just pure, timeless satisfaction. Whether you’re a seasoned sipper or a complete cocktail n00b, this dapper drink will always leave a lasting impression. Keen to learn more about history of the Old Fashioned? Come along! 

When was the Old Fashioned invented?

The story of the Old Fashioned takes us all the way back to the boisterous 19th century. This is when we encounter some of the earliest mentions of the cocktail, mostly in ink-stained newspapers and burly bar guides. It was at first simply known as a “whiskey cocktail,” a pretty simple mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. This was the deceptively basic formula that laid the foundation for what would become the Old Fashioned cocktail origin story.  

Now for the all-important question: where was the Old Fashioned drink invented? The exact origin of this classic is hotly debated. Cities like Louisville, Kentucky, and New York all claim to be its birthplace. Some claim it was first stirred up at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, while others are completely sure it emerged from the bustling bars of Manhattan. 

Regardless of where the Old Fashioned drink was invented, the cocktail quickly became a staple in American clinking culture. The basic recipe has remained remarkably consistent over the years, consisting of a spirit (typically whiskey), a sweetener (traditionally sugar or sugar syrup), bitters, and a citrus garnish.  

However, many tasty variations have popped up over the years. Adventurous bartenders and home mixologists got fancy with different types of whiskey, the addition of muddled fruit, and even the occasional splash of soda water. Despite (or maybe because of?) these tweaks, the Old Fashioned has maintained its status as a cocktail that will stand the test of time.  

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The evolution of the Old Fashioned

As cocktail culture evolved, the Old Fashioned went along for the ride. In the early 20th century, as new drinks popped up left and right, the Old Fashioned kept up with the trends. During Prohibition (1920-1933), things went a bit nuts… 

Bartenders had to get creative to mask the taste of rough, low-quality liquor with extra sugar and fruit. This is where add-ons like muddled oranges and cherries came into play, turning the stoic Old Fashioned into a more elaborate, colourful drink. 

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After Prohibition was called quits, the Old Fashioned started to strip down again, getting back to basics. Bartenders and drink lovers alike began to favour a simpler, more refined version of the cocktail. The swinging sixties saw the Old Fashioned rise to fame once more, becoming a go-to for anyone in the mood for a drink with a bit of old-school flair.  

Since then, the Old Fashioned has been dressed up and down in countless ways.  But, through all the changes, the heart of the cocktail—a perfect mix of spirit, sweetness, and bitters—has stayed the same. 

Read next: Choosing the Best Whiskey for an Old Fashioned: Bourbon, Rye, or Scotch?

Cultural significance

In truth, the Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it’s a classy symbol of tradition and a golden era gone by. Popping up in countless books and movies, it has become pop-culture shorthand for ‘historical elegance’. In fact, the slow sipper has appeared in the manicured hands of some of our most iconic film and television characters, from Don Draper in Mad Men to James Bond in Goldfinger. 

In literature, the Old Fashioned has also been name dropped in works by major writers like F. Scott Fitzgerald and Ernest Hemingway, further meshing it into the old-timey fabric of American culture. This is why you’ll find that the drink evokes a sense of nostalgia,  while still having one foot firmly in the present. 

Learn more: Manhattan Drink vs Old Fashioned Cocktail (What is the Difference?)

Notable figures & contributions

The history of the Old Fashioned is also about the people who helped to shape and popularise it. From bartenders to celebrities, many fine folks have contributed to the enduring legacy of this classic clinker. One of the most notable figures associated with the Old Fashioned cocktail is James E. Pepper.  

This quick-fingered gent, once a bartender at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, is most often credited with creating the drink in its current form. In fact, his version became so popular that it was eventually rolled out on the cocktail menu of the Waldorf-Astoria Hotel in New York, where it really clocked some time in the limelight.  

Throughout the years, the Old Fashioned has also been enjoyed by famous personalities, only adding to its tasty mystique. President Harry Truman and writer William Faulkner were known to be fans of the drink. This, of course, contributed to its status as a cocktail of choice for upstanding people with refined tastes.  

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Contemporary revival & variations

Lately, the obliging Old Fashioned has been making a major comeback, all thanks to the craft cocktail craze. Bartenders and mixologists around the globe are riffing on the classic recipe, mixing it up with everything from smoked whiskey to exotic spirits like mezcal and rum. It’s like the Old Fashioned just can’t help but reinvent itself while staying true to its roots, and we’re here for it! 

One of the coolest things about the Old Fashioned is its versatility. While the traditional recipe is still a crowd-pleaser, it’s so easy to liven things up with inventive twists. Think seasonal additions like apple cider or maple syrup, or even quirky garnishes like candied bacon or charred rosemary. These creative spins offer a fun new take on the classic, making sure the Old Fashioned stays a hit with both old-school fans and adventurous newbies. 

While its history is a little muddled, one thing is certain: the Old Fashioned’s journey from its humble 19th-century beginnings to its undisputed spot of honour on today’s cocktail scene is proof of its timeless charm. It’s a drink that bridges the gap between old-school tradition and fresh, modern flair—a sassy cocktail icon that keeps evolving like a champ.  

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There you go, a short and deliciously bourbon-tinged history of the Old Fashioned. Now all you need to do is continue the lasting legacy of this time-honored drink by stirring one up yourself. Visit the Wild Turkey website for more inspiration and sign up for our newsletter to receive the freshest drinkspiration delivered straight to your inbox. You can also find us on Instagram!