The Old Fashioned drink is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Known for its simplicity and bold flavors, the Old Fashioned has remained one of the most beloved cocktails for over a century. Whether you’re an experienced bartender or someone new to the world of cocktails, the Old Fashioned drink making kit provides everything you need to craft this timeless drink in the comfort of your own home. In this article, we will explore the elements of the Old Fashioned drink making kit, its benefits, and why it continues to be the go-to choice for cocktail lovers worldwide.
What is an Old Fashioned Drink Making Kit?
An Old Fashioned drink making kit is a curated set of tools and ingredients specifically designed to help you create the perfect Old Fashioned cocktail. These kits typically include essential items such as a mixing glass, a muddler, a strainer, a jigger for measuring, and sometimes even the classic ingredients that make up the cocktail: whiskey, bitters, sugar, and garnishes like orange peel and maraschino cherries.
The purpose of an Old Fashioned drink making kit is to offer a convenient way for enthusiasts to mix their own Old Fashioned drinks with the proper equipment and authentic ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a party, gifting a cocktail enthusiast, or simply perfecting your at-home bartending skills, this kit is an ideal addition to your barware collection.
Key Elements of the Old Fashioned Drink Making Kit
An Old Fashioned drink making kit usually contains several components that contribute to crafting the perfect cocktail. Here’s what you’ll typically find in one:
- Whiskey: The Old Fashioned is traditionally made with bourbon or rye whiskey. Some kits will include a bottle of premium whiskey, while others may offer suggestions on the best brands to use for a high-quality cocktail.
- Bitters: A few dashes of Angostura bitters are essential for the Old Fashioned, adding complexity and depth of flavor to the drink. Some kits include a small bottle of bitters, while others allow you to choose your preferred brand.
- Sugar Cubes or Simple Syrup: Traditionally, the Old Fashioned is sweetened with sugar cubes. Some kits may include sugar cubes, while others may provide a bottle of simple syrup as an alternative for ease of mixing.
- Glassware: The Old Fashioned is typically served in a short, sturdy glass called a rocks glass or an Old Fashioned glass. Many kits include a high-quality glass that enhances the overall presentation of the cocktail.
- Muddler: The muddler is used to crush the sugar cube, release the flavors of the citrus peel, and combine the ingredients. Most Old Fashioned drink making kits come with a muddler to help you properly prepare the drink.
- Strainer: After mixing the ingredients, you’ll need a strainer to pour the drink into the glass without ice or other solid elements. Some kits include a fine mesh strainer to ensure a smooth pour.
- Garnishes: The classic garnish for an Old Fashioned is a twist of orange peel and a maraschino cherry. Many kits include these garnishes, or provide a guide on how to create them yourself.
Why You Should Consider Getting an Old Fashioned Drink Making Kit
If you’re a fan of this classic cocktail, an Old Fashioned drink making kit can offer several advantages:
1. Convenience
The Old Fashioned drink making kit provides everything you need in one package, saving you time and effort. It removes the guesswork by supplying all the essential ingredients and tools to craft the perfect drink.
2. Precision and Quality
An Old Fashioned drink making kit helps you mix the cocktail with precision. The inclusion of a jigger for measuring, a muddler for crushing ingredients, and quality whiskey ensures your Old Fashioned has the right balance of flavors every time.
3. Perfect for Gifting
An Old Fashioned drink making kit makes an excellent gift for cocktail lovers, whiskey aficionados, or anyone who enjoys entertaining guests. It’s a thoughtful and practical present that allows the recipient to experience the craft of cocktail making.
4. Learning Experience
For those new to bartending or cocktail making, the Old Fashioned drink making kit offers a valuable learning experience. It allows you to practice the art of crafting cocktails with all the necessary tools at your fingertips.
5. Customizable Options
While some kits come with pre-selected ingredients, others allow you to customize the experience. You can select your preferred whiskey, bitters, and garnishes, tailoring the cocktail to your personal taste.
How to Use Your Old Fashioned Drink Making Kit
Once you have your Old Fashioned drink making kit, it’s time to get started. Here’s a simple guide on how to make the perfect Old Fashioned cocktail:
- Start with the Sugar: Place one sugar cube in your mixing glass (or use 0.5 oz of simple syrup). Add a few dashes of Angostura bitters on top of the sugar.
- Muddle the Ingredients: Use the muddler to gently crush the sugar cube and bitters together, releasing the flavors. If you’re using a sugar cube, make sure it dissolves properly.
- Add the Whiskey: Measure 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey with your jigger, and pour it into the mixing glass.
- Stir the Drink: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mixture for about 20-30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
- Strain and Serve: Use your strainer to pour the drink into a chilled Old Fashioned glass filled with ice. Add an orange peel garnish and a maraschino cherry.
- Enjoy: Sip and enjoy the sophisticated flavors of your perfectly made Old Fashioned!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About the Old Fashioned Drink Making Kit
1. What is included in an Old Fashioned drink making kit? An Old Fashioned drink making kit typically includes whiskey (or a recommendation), bitters, sugar cubes or simple syrup, a muddler, a jigger, a strainer, glassware, and garnishes such as orange peel and maraschino cherries. Some kits may also offer additional accessories like ice cube trays or cocktail stirrers.
2. Can I use any whiskey for my Old Fashioned? While bourbon and rye whiskey are traditional choices for an Old Fashioned, you can use any type of whiskey that you prefer. The key is to select a high-quality whiskey that complements the other ingredients.
3. Is the Old Fashioned drink making kit a good gift? Yes, an Old Fashioned drink making kit makes an excellent gift for cocktail enthusiasts, whiskey lovers, or anyone who enjoys mixing drinks at home. It’s a thoughtful and practical gift that lets the recipient create their own perfect Old Fashioned.
4. Can I make an Old Fashioned without the kit? While you can make an Old Fashioned without a kit, using a Old Fashioned drink making kit ensures that you have all the right tools and ingredients to make the cocktail with precision. The kit also helps you learn the proper techniques for crafting the perfect drink.
5. Are there any alternatives to the traditional Old Fashioned drink making kit? Some kits offer unique twists on the classic Old Fashioned. For example, some include flavored bitters, different types of whiskey (like single malt scotch), or exotic garnishes like smoked wood chips to create a custom experience.
Conclusion
The Old Fashioned drink making kit is a perfect way to embrace the tradition of crafting this timeless cocktail at home. With all the essential tools and ingredients provided, you can enjoy the art of mixing an Old Fashioned with precision and ease. Whether you’re gifting it to someone special, experimenting with your bartending skills, or enjoying a classic cocktail with friends, an Old Fashioned drink making kit is sure to elevate your home bar experience.