Old Fashioned Cocktail 101: Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
The Old Fashioned is a classic whiskey cocktail that has been charming tastebuds since the 1800s. With just a few key ingredients—whiskey, sugar cube, aromatic bitters, and a citrus twist—you get a drink that’s all about simplicity, elegance, and balance. But for all its minimalism, nailing the proper way to make an Old Fashioned takes some finesse.
Whether you’re learning how to make a classic Old Fashioned cocktail or curious about the great cherry debate, this guide is here to help you master the drink at home—without over-muddling, over-shaking, or overthinking it.
What’s in an Old Fashioned?
First things first: What’s in an Old Fashioned?
The recipe is famously simple:
• Whiskey – the backbone of the cocktail
• Sugar cube – or simple syrup, depending on your style
• Aromatic bitters – traditionally Angostura
• Citrus twist – usually orange, for that zesty aroma
• Optional garnish – sometimes cherry, more on that below
It’s not about how many ingredients you add—it’s about the drink’s balance between sweetness, bitterness, and spirit.
How Much Bitters to Add to an Old Fashioned?
One of the most asked questions is: how much bitters in an Old Fashioned?
The sweet spot is 2 to 3 dashes—yes, how many dashes of bitters in an Old Fashioned is a thing, and it matters. Use too little and the drink is flat; too much and you’re sipping on a spice rack.
For a twist on a classic, check out our Zesty Old Fashioned variation.
What Kind of Bitters to Use for Old Fashioned?
While there are many ways to riff on this drink, deciding what kind of bitters for an Old Fashioned is an easy one: aromatic bitters like Angostura are your classic choice.
However, don’t be afraid to play around—orange, chocolate, or even walnut bitters can give you fun Old Fashioned variations. Just remember – start simple before you get wild.
Do You Muddle an Old Fashioned?
Do you muddle an Old Fashioned? Good question—and a slightly controversial one.
Traditionally, yes: you’d muddle a brown sugar cube with bitters in the glass. This counts as muddling ingredients—but if you’re using simple syrup instead (which is more common these days), muddling is not necessary, unless the recipe requires it for another ingredient, like a cherry.
So, Old Fashioned muddled or not? It depends on how old-school you’re going. But if you’re muddling fruit or herbs, just remember – it’s a cocktail, not a fruit salad.
Do You Shake or Stir an Old Fashioned?
This one’s not up for debate: you always stir, never shake.
Shaking introduces too much dilution and air, which throws off the drink balance and mutes the whiskey’s character, and if you forget to strain it, leave bits of ice in the drink. Not what you want.
Stirring cocktails like the Old Fashioned is the way to go for texture, clarity, and that silky mouthfeel.
Can You Use Any Whiskey for an Old Fashioned?
Technically, yes—you can use any whiskey for an Old Fashioned. But that doesn’t mean you should just grab any bottle in arm’s reach.
A solid choice? Jameson Black Barrel. It brings rich vanilla, toasted wood, and just enough spice to create a smooth, smokey whiskey drink that elevates the classic recipe.
Does an Old Fashioned Have a Cherry?
Here’s a fun one: does an Old Fashioned have a cherry? The answer is… it can.
The commonly, an Old Fashioned garnish is a twist of orange peel. But many bartenders add a maraschino or luxardo cherry for extra sweetness or visual appeal.
It’s not mandatory, but it’s not a sin either. For more information on creatively garnishing your Old Fashioned (and other cocktails for that matter) check out our other articles.
How to Describe an Old Fashioned Cocktail
If you’ve ever wondered how to describe an Old Fashioned cocktail, here’s your cheat sheet:
“It’s a smooth, spirit-forward cocktail with notes of spice, citrus, and just a hint of sweetness. Complex but balanced, with a clean finish. Perfect for impressing guests or dazzling a date.”
Try saying that 5 times, fast.
What Ice Cubes for an Old Fashioned?
The ideal glass of Old Fashioned includes one big, slow-melting ice cube or sphere. Why?
Because large ice keeps your drink cool without turning it into a watered-down disappointment.
Small cubes = fast melt. Stick to a large format for full flavour.
Old Fashioned Glass
Speaking of glasses, yes, the vessel matters.
The Old Fashioned glass—also known as a rocks or lowball glass—is short, sturdy, and perfect for muddled cocktails. Presentation counts!
Check out the Midleton Glassware Collection a whole range of ideal glassware made for whiskey sipping.
How to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail at Home
Want to level up your skills? Learn how to make a smoked Old Fashioned cocktail—it adds drama and flavour.
At-home method:
1. Build the drink in a mixing glass.
2. Use a smoking gun or blowtorch on a wood plank (cherry or oak works great).
3. Funnel the smoke into the serving glass.
4. Cover it briefly to trap the aroma.
5. Pour, swirl, enjoy.
A smoked twist on a classic cocktail? Yes, please.
How Many Calories in an Old Fashioned?
Answer: typically, 150–180 calories, depending on the size of your pour, your syrup style, and whether that cherry makes a cameo. But we recommend not thinking about it and just enjoying one of the best drinks ever created for exactly what it is. Delicious.
How Much Simple Syrup in an Old Fashioned?
If you’re skipping the sugar cube, you’ll want to know how much simple syrup is in an Old Fashioned.
About 1 teaspoon (5ml) is perfect. Too much and it’s dessert; too little and it’s just whiskey with attitude.
Can You Make an Old Fashioned with Irish Whiskey?
Absolutely—and it’s the best way to enjoy the drink too.
Smooth, balanced, and subtly sweet, Jameson Black Barrel is a dream in this cocktail.
What liquor is in an Old Fashioned? Traditionally bourbon or rye—but triple distilled Irish whiskey can’t be beaten.
When Was the Old Fashioned Invented?
Time for a little Old Fashioned history lesson.
The short answer: it’s older than your great-granddad’s suspenders.
Its original form dates back to the 1880’s – and includes whiskey (usually bourbon or rye), sugar, water, and bitters. And over time has evolved into what we see as a classic cocktail today.
What Does Old Fashioned Taste Like?
Didn’t we answer this already? Well maybe not exactly this.
An Old Fashioned is smooth, and slightly sweet, with bold whiskey notes and hints of citrus and spice. The aromatic bitters round it out beautifully.
Now that you know how to make an Old Fashioned at home, why not mix your own? Want to try something different? Dive into Old Fashioned variations like a Maple Old Fashioned. Whatever your preference, the beauty of this drink is its adaptability. Start with our Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe and make it yours. Must Be A Jameson.
