Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned: A Guide to Perfecting the Classic Cocktail

The Old Fashioned is one of the most beloved and timeless cocktails. Known for its simplicity and elegance, it has stood the test of time since the 1800s. The cocktail’s balance of sweetness, bitterness, and spirit is what makes it unique. However, the bourbon you choose plays a pivotal role in determining the quality of your Old Fashioned. In this article, we will explore the best bourbon for Old Fashioned, ensuring your next cocktail is perfect.

What Makes a Great Bourbon for Old Fashioned?

Before diving into the best options, it’s important to understand what characteristics make bourbon ideal for an Old Fashioned. When selecting the best bourbon for Old Fashioned, consider the following factors:

1. Flavor Profile: The key to an excellent Old Fashioned is balancing the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the bitters with the flavor of the bourbon. Look for bourbons with rich, complex flavors that can stand up to these ingredients. Notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice are often desirable.
2. Proof: The proof, or alcohol content, of bourbon is crucial in determining how it interacts with other cocktail ingredients. Higher-proof bourbons (above 90 proof) can provide a bolder, stronger flavor, while lower-proof bourbons offer a smoother, mellower taste. The best bourbon for Old Fashioned should strike a balance between these two extremes.
3. Smoothness: An Old Fashioned is a sipping cocktail, so you want a bourbon that is smooth and easy to drink. Rough or overly aggressive bourbons can overpower the other ingredients, making the drink too harsh.
4. Price Point: While premium bourbons are great, you don’t need to break the bank to make a fantastic Old Fashioned. There are plenty of affordable options that deliver outstanding flavor and quality.

Now that you know what to look for, let’s dive into the best bourbon for Old Fashioned cocktails.

1. Buffalo Trace

Buffalo Trace is often regarded as one of the best bourbons for Old Fashioned cocktails, especially for those looking for something versatile and approachable. With a flavor profile of caramel, vanilla, and a touch of spice, this bourbon strikes the right balance without overwhelming the cocktail’s other ingredients.

• Proof: 90
• Flavor Notes: Caramel, vanilla, oak, and spice
• Why It’s Great: Its rich but smooth profile makes it an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned, whether you’re a novice or an experienced bourbon drinker.

2. Woodford Reserve

When it comes to crafting a top-notch Old Fashioned, Woodford Reserve is frequently cited as one of the best bourbons for Old Fashioned lovers. Known for its full-bodied flavor, Woodford Reserve offers rich notes of dried fruit, toasted nuts, and spices, making it a bold and flavorful choice.

• Proof: 90.4
• Flavor Notes: Dried fruit, vanilla, caramel, toasted nuts
• Why It’s Great: The complexity of flavors pairs beautifully with the sugar and bitters, elevating the Old Fashioned to new heights.

3. Four Roses Single Barrel

Four Roses Single Barrel is another strong contender for the best bourbon for Old Fashioned. What sets this bourbon apart is its distinctively smooth and balanced flavor. With hints of ripe plum, cherry, and vanilla, it brings a touch of sweetness that perfectly complements the bitters in an Old Fashioned.

• Proof: 100
• Flavor Notes: Ripe fruit, vanilla, honey, and oak
• Why It’s Great: The fruit-forward flavors add a new dimension to the classic cocktail, making it ideal for those who enjoy a slightly sweeter drink.

4. Bulleit Bourbon

Bulleit Bourbon is well-known for its high rye content, giving it a spicier kick compared to other bourbons. This makes it one of the best bourbons for Old Fashioned if you like a cocktail with a bit more spice and complexity. The peppery notes play off the sweetness of the sugar, resulting in a well-balanced drink.

• Proof: 90
• Flavor Notes: Spice, oak, and vanilla
• Why It’s Great: Its spiciness cuts through the sweetness, offering a well-rounded and interesting flavor profile.

5. Maker’s Mark

For those who prefer a softer, sweeter bourbon, Maker’s Mark is one of the best bourbons for Old Fashioned. Its wheated mash bill results in a smoother, less spicy flavor compared to rye-heavy bourbons. Notes of caramel, vanilla, and honey make Maker’s Mark an excellent base for a more mellow Old Fashioned.

• Proof: 90
• Flavor Notes: Caramel, vanilla, honey, and fruit
• Why It’s Great: If you’re looking for a smooth, easy-drinking bourbon for your Old Fashioned, Maker’s Mark delivers a refined and balanced experience.

6. Elijah Craig Small Batch

Elijah Craig Small Batch is a standout when it comes to the best bourbon for Old Fashioned. Its deep, rich flavors of caramel, vanilla, and toasted oak make it the perfect choice for those who enjoy a bolder drink. The higher proof (94) gives it a strong, lasting presence, allowing it to shine through the bitters and sugar.

• Proof: 94
• Flavor Notes: Caramel, vanilla, toasted oak
• Why It’s Great: The higher proof and complex flavors make this a fantastic bourbon for those who like their Old Fashioned to pack a punch.

7. Knob Creek

Knob Creek is a higher-proof bourbon that offers big, bold flavors, making it one of the best bourbons for Old Fashioned if you want a stronger drink. With robust notes of oak, caramel, and spice, it creates a rich and flavorful cocktail.

• Proof: 100
• Flavor Notes: Oak, caramel, spice, and vanilla
• Why It’s Great: The bold, full-bodied flavor stands up to the sweetness and bitterness, creating a well-balanced yet strong Old Fashioned.

How to Make the Perfect Old Fashioned

Once you’ve chosen the best bourbon for Old Fashioned, it’s time to make the cocktail. Here’s a simple recipe to follow:

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 sugar cube or 1/2 tsp sugar
• 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Orange peel
• Ice

Instructions:

1. Place the sugar cube (or sugar) in an Old Fashioned glass.
2. Add bitters and a splash of water.
3. Muddle the sugar and bitters together until dissolved.
4. Add a large ice cube to the glass.
5. Pour in the bourbon.
6. Stir gently to combine.
7. Express the oils from an orange peel over the glass and garnish with the peel.

Conclusion

The key to a great Old Fashioned lies in selecting the right bourbon. Whether you prefer something smooth and sweet like Maker’s Mark or a bold, high-proof option like Knob Creek, the best bourbon for Old Fashioned ultimately depends on your personal taste. The right balance of sweetness, spice, and strength will elevate this classic cocktail, turning it into a luxurious drinking experience. Now that you’re equipped with knowledge on the best bourbon for Old Fashioned, you’re ready to mix up the perfect cocktail. Cheer!