Types of Old Fashioned Variations to Master at Home
The great irony of a vintage cocktail such as the Old Fashioned is that it is always being reinvented, reimagined and blessed with a modern take on a classic. There is a wonderfully wide world of Old Fashioned variations out there, and every twist and turn blends traditional mixology with the want… no, the need to experiment and interpolate. The Old Fashioned is a legend of cocktail history, a favourite from the prohibition era, and a shining example of how classic drinks can evolve through creativity, quality ingredients, and curious home bartenders.
Whether you’re hunting for Old Fashioned cocktail variations, experimenting with spirit variations, or looking to try different types of Old Fashioneds, this guide has you covered from simple & classic to the showy & complex, without ever skipping over the fact that a great Old Fashioned starts with a great triple-distilled Irish whiskey.
1. Classic Old Fashioned
The base of all types of Old Fashioned drinks, the Classic Old Fashioned uses just four powerhouse ingredients: whiskey, a sugar cube (although we suggest sugar syrup as it dissolves and mix through the drink much better), Angostura bitters, and water (in the form of a large ice cube, and we really mean large singular here). Its simplicity is the reason it’s still one of the most beloved go-to cocktails for whiskey lovers around the globe.
Now, of course, you can use triple distilled Jameson Original for nearly all of your cocktail needs, but, particularly for the classic Old Fashioned, we recommend using Jameson Black Barrel to add that little extra complexity to this straightforward favourite without any work on your part. Its charred barrel depth offers smoothness and warmth that make it ideal for newcomers and whiskey purists alike.
Technique: An Old Fashioned should always be stirred, not shaken. Use a muddler gently on the sugar cube (or again, use sugar syrup and make your life easier) and bitters before you add ice and whiskey. And yes, one big ice cube is always better than many small ones (essential, some might say).
2. Maple Old Fashioned
For those chasing flavoured Old Fashioned recipes, the Maple Old Fashioned is a fan favourite. This twist replaces the sugar cube with maple-flavoured syrups, giving the drink a rich, velvety sweetness that complements the smooth spice of Irish Whiskey.
It’s comforting, slightly decadent, and one of the best Old Fashioned variations when coming into the cooler evenings or as an after-dinner treat.
3. Zesty Old Fashioned
The Zesty Old Fashioned is sunshine in a glass. Using citrus zest and Jameson Orange, this refreshing take lightens the classic structure. It’s ideal if you prefer Old Fashioned recipe variations that brighten the flavour rather than deepen it.
Compared to the richer classic, this is a lively, more energetic option. One of the types of Old Fashioned that reminds you that the dancefloor isn’t really a dance floor without you on it.
4. IPA Old Fashioned
Perfect for hop lovers, the IPA Old Fashioned uses Jameson Caskmates IPA Edition and orange bitters, allowing the gentle citrus and crisp hops from IPA-seasoned barrels to infuse the whiskey naturally. It’s beer-free, so it won’t quench what ales you in that regard, but, if you’re looking for an Old Fashioned alternative… well, you better keep looking because this is one of the more modern Old Fashioned cocktail variations, bridging the gap between beer fans and whiskey drinkers.
5. Jameson Cold Fashioned
Coffee lovers, rejoice. The Jameson Cold Fashioned, made with Jameson Cold Brew, is exactly the coffee-hinted Old Fashioned you crave. The result is a silky, aromatic balance of roasted coffee and whiskey smoothness. Sweet but not overwhelming. Sophisticated but not too high-brow, it works beautifully as a mid-evening sipper. Now, can we get a round of applause for the name? Out of all the Old Fashioned cocktail names, this one is a chef’s kiss.
6. Still Fashioned
A nod to more vintage recipes and in-depth craftsmanship, the Still Fashioned leans into richer whiskey character and classic ingredients like aromatic bitters and… sherry. Using Jameson Single Pot Still gives this variation creamy texture, spice, and a luxurious finish. For those who adore traditional old fashion variations, the Still Fashioned is a dashingly arresting upgrade.
7. Cheung Fun Old Fashioned
This is where things get truly adventurous.
The Cheung Fun Old Fashioned takes inspiration from Cantonese cuisine, particularly the iconic Cheung Fun rice noodle rolls. Expect umami flavours, subtle sweetness, and a smooth whiskey backbone that is proof that different Old Fashioned recipes can travel far beyond tradition while still honouring it. This unique Old Fashioned recipe sounds good, says you? Well, it tastes like nothing you’ve ever tried before, sesame.
8. The Improved Whiskey Cocktail
Older than the standard Old Fashioned, the Improved Whiskey Cocktail blends absinthe, maraschino liqueur, bitters, and whiskey. Yeah, it’s a doozy, but consider it the first attempt at a different type of Old Fashioned, which took the recipe that would become the Old Fashioned and turned it up to 11.
More on Old Fashioned Types
What are some of the best Old Fashioned variations for Irish Whiskey?
Irish whiskey’s famously smooth, triple-distilled character makes it ideal for Old Fashioned cocktail variations. Some top picks include the Maple Old Fashioned, Zesty Old Fashioned, and the Cold Fashioned, each highlighting a different facet of the whiskey without overwhelming it.
Where can I find different Old Fashioned recipes, including a unique Old Fashioned recipe using Irish Whiskey?
There are many types of Old Fashioned drinks, some of which are hidden in plain sight in this article, but for many recipes for amazing cocktails (including recipes as unique as the Cheung Fun Old Fashioned), check out Jamesonwhiskey.com
What are flavoured Old Fashioned recipes and how are they made with Jameson?
Flavoured Old Fashioned recipes tend to use a flavoured sugar syrup that’s infused with citrus, herbal, or seasonal spices, or use a flavoured whiskey, like Jameson Orange, to make the Old Fashioned. They’re generally made in the same way you make any Old Fashioned. For a new twist, you can always keep the look classic with a cherry garnish and surprise people with a flavourful twist on taste if you’re feeling a little sneaky.
Is there an Old Fashioned alternative that is simpler to make with Irish Whiskey?
It has to be the OG. The classic Old Fashioned. Use Jameson, Angostura bitters, simple syrup/ sugar syrup and a large ice cube, and simply put, you’re set.
Whether you’re building on tradition or bravely exploring a bold new world, you now have at least a few recipes to get those Old Fashioned juices flowing. To keep the journey going, jump into the complete Old Fashioned 101 guide, and remember, if you simply must make an Old Fashioned, then it Must Be A Jameson.