Barsys
Old Fashioned
About
The Old Fashioned is the grandfather of cocktails - simple, sophisticated, and unapologetically strong. Born in the early 1800s, it was literally called a "cocktail" before the word meant anything else: spirit, sugar, water, and bitters. Over time, bartenders got fancier with ingredients, but purists brought it back to basics - hence the name “Old Fashioned.”
It’s all about letting the whiskey shine. Bourbon brings the warmth, brown sugar syrup adds a mellow sweetness, and bitters give it that aromatic kick. Stirred slowly over ice, it’s a drink that doesn’t rush you - it invites you to savor. Whether you’re closing a deal, winding down after work, or just feeling classic, the Old Fashioned is the right call.
Shaken or Stirred? Stirred. Always. This is about elegance, not froth. Stirring keeps it silky, with the right amount of chill and dilution.
What You'll Need
For one Old Fashioned cocktail:
- 60 ml bourbon whiskey
- 10 ml brown sugar syrup
- 5 dashes aromatic bitters
- Ice
Pro tip: Use one large ice cube instead of many small ones to slow dilution and keep the drink perfectly balanced from first sip to last.
How to Make It
Prep time: 5 minutes
Skill level: Beginner-friendly but rewards patience
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add bourbon, brown sugar syrup, and bitters.
- Stir gently for about 2030 seconds until chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with an expressed orange twist.
Using Barsys?
With the Barsys Coaster, your Old Fashioned comes out perfectly balanced every time. Just load your bourbon and syrup, let Barsys measure, and stir to perfection. No over-pouring, no guesswork - just a flawless classic.
For the full recipe, download the Barsys App.
Tasting Notes
The Barsys Edge
One extra dash of bitters or too much syrup can shift the balance. Barsys eliminates that margin of error, letting you focus on the ritual - stirring, garnishing, sipping.
Sip Setting
Perfect for slow evenings, deep conversations, or as your “one and done” nightcap.
Garnish Game
Classic is best: an orange twist. For a bolder aroma, flame the peel before dropping it in.
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FAQs
What’s the origin of the Old Fashioned?
It traces back to the early 19th century as one of the first documented cocktails, made simply with spirit, sugar, water, and bitters.
Can I use rye whiskey instead of bourbon?
Absolutely. Rye gives it a spicier, drier edge compared to bourbon’s sweeter profile.
Do I have to use brown sugar syrup?
No, you can use a sugar cube muddled with bitters, but syrup gives a smoother texture.
What bitters work best?
Aromatic bitters like Angostura are the classic choice, but orange bitters can add a citrusy twist.
Does Barsys work for this drink?
Yes, Barsys nails the measurements every time, ensuring your Old Fashioned stays balanced.