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18 Types of Old Fashioned Cocktails: Recipes and Variations

August 12, 2024 by

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The Old Fashioned cocktail has stood the test of time as a super popular classic, dating all the way back to the early 19th century. The simple yet sophisticated blend of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus makes it a go-to for cocktail enthusiasts.  

But why stop with the classic version? We have 18 Old Fashioned variations with exciting twists, adding new flavours and flair while maintaining that timeless appeal. Ready to explore some unique recipes and ideas? Let’s dive in! 

Old Fashioned basics

Old fashioned cocktail with cherry and orange peel garnish

The original Old Fashioned is a cornerstone of cocktail history, celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. This traditional recipe includes just a few key ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar syrup (or a sugar cube), bitters, and an orange twist or cherry for garnish. 

Method

  • Combine sugar syrup and bitters: In an Old Fashioned glass, add your sugar syrup and a few dashes of Angostura bitters. If you’re using a sugar cube, place the cube in the glass, douse it with the bitters, add a splash of water if desired, and muddle until dissolved. 
  • Add the whiskey: Pour the bourbon or rye whiskey over a large ice cube. 
  • Stir and garnish: Stir gently to combine the flavours. Garnish with an orange twist or cherry, and enjoy the smooth, rich taste of a classic Old Fashioned. 

Read next: Best Whiskey for an Old Fashioned Cocktail 

Exploring Old Fashioned variations

Close-up of the best bitters for an Old Fashioned being added to an Old Fashioned cocktail

The Old Fashioned is a very versatile cocktail, perfect for experimenting with different ingredients to create exciting new twists. Here are a few types of variations that can add a fresh spin to this classic drink. 

Spirit swaps

Switch up the base spirit to create a whole new flavour. Use dark rum for a richer, sweeter drink, or tequila for a bold, agave twist. Brandy adds a smooth, fruity note, while Scotch whisky gives a complex, peaty depth. Each different spirit brings its own character to the party, making for a delightful variation on the classic. 

Sweetener variations

Adding sweetness to an Old Fashioned is essential for balancing its bitterness and kick. Instead of sugar syrup or a sugar cube, experiment with honey for a floral sweetness, maple syrup for a rich, earthy flavour, or agave syrup for a touch of natural sweetness. Flavoured syrups, like cinnamon or vanilla, can also add an extra layer of complexity to your cocktail. 

Bitters and other flavour enhancers

When it comes to choosing bitters for an Old Fashioned, there are countless varieties to explore. Swap out Angostura bitters for orange, chocolate, or coffee bitters, or add a few dashes of cardamom or lavender bitters for a fragrant twist. Liqueurs like coffee or amaretto can also enhance the drink with additional depth and aroma. 

Go pro: Best Bitters for Old Fashioned 

Garnish options

Garnishes are more than just decoration; they add aroma and visual appeal to your cocktail. Think beyond the standard orange twist or cherry—try candied bacon for a savoury-sweet element, a smoked orange peel for a hint of charred citrus, or edible flowers for a beautiful, delicate touch.  

Also see: Manhattan Drink vs Old Fashioned Cocktail – What is the Difference? 

18 Unique Old Fashioned recipes

1. Smoked Old Fashioned

Two smoked bourbon cocktails with smoke coming out of the glasses, chargrilled pineapple on the side

The Smoked Old Fashioned adds a captivating by infusing the drink with aromatic smoke, adding a daring layer of complexity to delight the senses.  

Learn more: What to Mix with Bourbon (Easy Bourbon Cocktails to Try at Home) 

2. Bacon Old Fashioned

Close up of an Old Fahioned cocktail garnished with a piece of crispy bacon over the top of the glass droë

Ever heard of fat-washing? If not, check out this guide to see how it works. Fat-washing changes the texture of a drink by infusing it with the flavours and aromas of the chosen fat source. Try an Old Fashioned made with bacon-infused bourbon to experience pure umami bliss.   

3. Rum Old Fashioned

Rum Old Fashioned with fresh orange garnish

The Rum Old Fashioned, made with two types of rum, is a spiffy spinoff of the original. The addition of falernum (a spiced, sweet, and tart syrup) adds an irresistible zing and complexity, taking it into a truly trendy cocktail space. 

Make it with: Appleton Estate Rum 

4. Reposado Old Fashioned

To Reposado Tequila Old Fashioned cocktails served on a table in a modern lounge

To make a Reposado Old Fashioned, add 60 ml reposado tequila, 10 ml sugar syrup, and a dash of bitters to a rocks glass over ice. Stir it with a cocktail spoon and express the essential oil of a strip of orange zest over the top before dropping it in the drink. Utter perfection!  

Make it with: Espolón Reposado Tequila  

¡Ariba! 15 Perfect Cinco de Mayo Cocktails 

5. Añejo Old Fashioned

Two Añejo Old Fashioned cocktails with orange and rosemary garnish

If you’re hosting a Mexican-themed evening, we suggest you end it with an elegant Añejo Old Fashioned. Made with aged añejo tequila, agave syrup, and Angostura bitters it adds a beautiful dash of South American mystery to the standard mix.  

Make it with: Espolón Añejo Tequila 

6. Mezcal Old Fashioned

Mezcal Old Fashioned with burnt orange peel garnish

This mezcal cocktail, also known as an Oaxacan Old Fashioned was created in 2007 in New York. Make yours with reposado tequila, mezcal, agave syrup, and bitters, and add some flair with a flamed orange peel garnish.   

Make it with: Montelobos Mezcal 

6. Aperol Old Fashioned

Aperol Old Fashioned with orange slice cherry garnish presented on a rustic wooden surface alongside some orange slices and a metal jigger

Give your Old Fashioned an Italian upgrade with Aperol.  Replace the bitters with Aperol to create a bittersweet taste that complements the oak, vanilla, and caramel flavours of bourbon.   

Make it with: Aperol 

8. Grand Old Fashioned

Grand Old Fashioned with a bartender creating an orange peel twist over the cocktail

Give the timeless Old Fashioned a modern and sophisticated twist by adding orange liqueur. The addition of Grand Marnier Cordon Rouge adds an elegant touch and smooth finish, with notes of oranges and nuts. Serve it after dinner or pair it with dessert as a luscious treat. 

Make it with: Grand Marnier 

9. Ancho Reyes Old Fashioned

Close up of an Ancho Reyes Old Fashioned Cocktail in a rocks glass, garnished with an orange twist on a bamboo cocktail pick

This fiery riff on the OG recipe is one to try if you love a spicy sipper. Combine 30 ml Ancho Reyes Original, 30 ml Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon, 10 ml sugar syrup, 2 dashes bitters, and 2 dashes orange bitters in a mixing glass with ice. Stir to chill and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. Garnish with an orange twist. 

Make it with: Ancho Reyes  

10. Banana Old Fashioned

Two Banana Old Fashioned cocktails on a table in a minimalist home kitchen in daytime

This take on the original recipe is a revelation if you love all things tropical. To make a Banana Old Fashioned, add 60 ml Wild Turkey Bourbon, 15 ml banana liqueur, and 6 dashes of bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well combined, and strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice. 

11. Sesame Old Fashioned

A beguiling Sesame Old Fashioned cocktail

Inspired by Asian flavours, the Sesame Old Fashioned is a beautifully nutty and aromatic variation. To make two, dry toast a handful of sesame seeds in a warm pan, remove, and add it to 120 ml of whiskey. Let it infuse for an hour, then add 60 ml of your infused whiskey, 15 ml sugar syrup, and 4 dashes of bitters to a rocks glass over ice. Stir, serve, and enjoy this popular Asian alcoholic drink. 

Make it with: The Glen Grant Whisky 

12. Chocolate Old Fashioned

Two Chocolate Old Fashioned cocktails on a table inside a modern home lounge next to a fireplace

This cocoa-inspired riff on the classic is super easy to shake up, and even easier to sip. To make one, add 45 ml chocolate liqueur, 60 ml Wild Turkey Bourbon, 30 ml sugar syrup, and three dashes of bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir to combine, strain into an ice-filled rocks glass, and garnish with an orange twist.  

13. Old Fashioned Samurai

A pair of Old Fashioned Samurai cocktails in a modern Japanese bar setting

This cocktail is big in Japan and will be a hit for those who enjoy the taste of shochu. Add 1 tsp sugar, 3 dashes of bitters, and a splash of soda water to a rocks glass. Muddle and stir until the sugar has dissolved. Add 60 ml shochu, and some ice. Stir the drink for 10 seconds, then twist an orange peel over the drink, drop it in, and serve. 

Seasonal variations

Using seasonal ingredients to upgrade your Old Fashioned is another way to make this captivating drink your own. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing: 

14. Pumpkin Spice Bourbon Old Fashioned

Pumpkin Spice Bourbon Old Fashioned

The Pumpkin Spice Old Fashioned is the best bits of autumn in a glass. Combine 15 ml of homemade pumpkin syrup with 2 dashes of orange bitters and an orange wedge in an Old Fashioned glass, and muddle. Next, add 60 ml of Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon and ice. If desired, add a splash of club soda for effervescence. Stir gently using a cinnamon stick for a truly enchanting Halloween cocktail. 

15. Peachy Old Fashioned

Close up of a Peach Old Fashioned cocktail backlit in a bright home setting

Peachy keen? So are we! Start by muddling a cubed peach with 15 ml of sugar syrup in a mixing glass. Add 60 ml of Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon or rye whiskey, 2 dashes of bitters, and ice, then stir well with ice. Strain into an ice-filled rocks glass and finish it off with an orange twist or slice. 

16. Blueberry Old Fashioned

Close up of a Blueberry Old Fashioned Cocktail garnished with fresh blueberries posed on a wooden platter in a home environment

Shimmy into summer with a Blueberry Old Fashioned. Muddle a few fresh blueberries with 15 ml blueberry syrup in a rocks glass. Add ice cubes, 60 ml whiskey, and 2 dashes of bitters. Gently stir to blend the flavours and garnish with an orange peel twist and a few fresh blueberries. 

17. Pomegranate Old Fashioned

Close up top view of a Pomegranate Old Fashioned Cocktail garnished with fresh pomegranate arils

Vibrant and packed with flavour, this Old Fashioned is perfect for spectacular sunsets with good friends. In a mixing glass, combine 60 ml Wild Turkey 101 Bourbon or Rye Whiskey, 45 ml pomegranate juice, 45 ml sugar syrup, and 2 dashes of bitters. Fill the mixing glass with ice and gently stir for about 30 seconds to blend the ingredients and chill the cocktail. Strain into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice and garnish the drink with an orange peel twist.  

18. Apple Butter Old Fashioned

Apple Butter Old Fashioned in tumbler with apple slices and cinnamon sticks

An Apple Butter Old Fashioned is packed with the warm and spicy flavours synonymous with cosy apple pies. Made with real apple butter (just like mama used to make), this autumn Old Fashioned drink is perfect for an indulgent harvest feast with your nearest and dearest.   

Tips for crafting your own Old Fashioned variations

Close up of a home mixologist using a dropper to add umami bitters to an Old Fashioned cocktail

  • Play around with flavours and balance to make a killer Old Fashioned that’s just right for you. Start with the basic recipe, then mix things up by trying different spirits, sweeteners, and bitters.  
  • Make sure the sweetness matches the bitterness and the strength of the alcohol. Don’t be shy to tweak the amounts until it tastes just right. Think about what you love: if you’re into smoky flavours, go for mezcal or Scotch whisky; if you’ve got a sweet tooth, add honey or maple syrup.  
  • Use bitters and garnishes that match your favourite scents and tastes.  

The best part about the Old Fashioned is its simplicity and versatility, so you can experiment endlessly to create a drink that’s perfect for you. 

There you have it – everything you need to know about creating amazing Old Fashioned variations. To get more inspiration like this served up fresh from the presses, sign up for our newsletter, and follow us on Instagram. For more inspiration, visit the Wild Turkey, SKYY, Aperol, Campari, Espolòn, and Appleton Estate websites. 

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Popular variations include the Smoked Old Fashioned, Bacon Old Fashioned, Rum Old Fashioned, Reposado Old Fashioned, and Mezcal Old Fashioned. Each brings unique flavours and twists to the classic cocktail.

Yes, you can make an Old Fashioned with rum or tequila. Using dark rum adds a rich sweetness, while tequila, especially reposado or añejo tequila, brings a bold and smoky flavour.

Infuse flavours by swapping traditional ingredients: use flavoured syrups (honey, maple), different bitters (orange, chocolate), or fat-wash spirits (like bacon-infused bourbon). Experiment with liqueurs for added depth.

Unique garnishes include candied bacon, smoked orange peel, and edible flowers. These add aroma, visual appeal, and innovative flavours to elevate the cocktail experience.

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