Whiskey, Bitters, and a Dash of History: The Old Fashioned Revival at Robert Hall
The Old Fashioned is a favorite at Robert Hall, and for good reason.
This iconic cocktail has a rich history dating back to the early 1800s. It originated as a simple, yet elegant blend of whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters, offering a straightforward yet bold drinking experience. During its early years, it was often referred to as a “whiskey cocktail.” It wasn’t until later that it would become known by the name we’re all familiar with today—”Old Fashioned”—as it stood in contrast next to the newer, more complex drinks that emerged over time.
The Old Fashioned, much like many classic cocktails, saw its most significant evolution post-Prohibition. Before the 1920s, the cocktail was enjoyed in its simplest form, but during Prohibition, bartenders had to get creative to mask the taste of inferior spirits. This led to variations that incorporated muddled fruit, such as cherries and oranges, and even added soda water, changing the drink’s profile considerably. After the repeal of Prohibition, bartenders and enthusiasts alike began to revive the original style, leading to the resurgence of the pre-Prohibition Old Fashioned we enjoy today.
At bars across the world, you’ll still find numerous interpretations of the Old Fashioned. Depending on the bartender, you may encounter muddled fruit, a wide array of bitters, or even the addition of cordials. The adaptability of the cocktail is part of its enduring charm, making it a canvas for creativity while still honoring its roots. However, at Robert Hall’s Capone’s Bar, the Old Fashioned is celebrated in its most authentic form.
Crafting the Perfect Old Fashioned at Robert Hall
Jessica and Matt Judson, the husband and wife duo behind Thirsty Buffalo (and Robert Hall’s bar managers), stick closely to this tradition. They craft the Old Fashioned using house-made simple syrup and a balanced combination of Angostura and orange bitters. Instead of muddling fruit, they add only the essence of orange oil expressed from the peel, ensuring the whiskey remains the star of the show. The simplicity of this method aligns with the classic pre-Prohibition preparation, delivering a cocktail that is timeless and refined.
As Jessica puts it, “We love when the Old Fashioned is chosen and added to a custom menu. It’s always a crowd favorite, and perfectly complements the vibe at Capone’s Bar.”
Want to make your own Old Fashioned in true Thirsty Buffalo style? Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. Woodford Reserve Bourbon
- 0.5 oz. Simple Syrup
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 2 dashes Orange Angostura Bitters
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients in a beaker.
- Add ice and stir well.
- Strain over fresh ice or a large cube in a glass.
- Express the oil from an orange peel around the rim of the glass and into the drink.
Cheers!
