The Ginger Old Fashioned is a vibrant and modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. Traditional Old Fashioneds, known for their simplicity and elegance, typically consist of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a citrus twist. However, in this version, the addition of ginger adds a bold, spicy kick that elevates the drink to new heights. The Ginger Old Fashioned brings a refreshing, zesty note to the timeless drink, making it ideal for those who enjoy a bit of spice and a more adventurous take on an old favorite. The rich, smooth whiskey blends perfectly with the heat of fresh ginger, while the touch of sweetness and aromatic bitters provide balance. This cocktail is an excellent choice for anyone looking to experience the Old Fashioned in a whole new light. Whether you’re relaxing after a long day or entertaining guests at a dinner party, the Ginger Old Fashioned offers a sophisticated yet approachable option that will impress with its unique flavor profile.
This cocktail combines the warmth and depth of whiskey with the freshness and spice of ginger, making it a drink that’s both refreshing and comforting. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, requiring only a few key ingredients. If you’re a fan of bold cocktails and enjoy a bit of spice, this variation of the Old Fashioned is sure to become your new go-to drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey – Choose a high-quality whiskey to ensure a smooth and flavorful base for your drink. Bourbon works best for a sweeter, richer flavor, while rye offers a spicier and more robust taste.
- 1 tablespoon ginger syrup (or ginger simple syrup) – Adds a refreshing, spicy sweetness that is the hallmark of the Ginger Old Fashioned.
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters – Classic bitters that add depth, complexity, and a touch of aromatic bitterness to the cocktail.
- 1 small slice of fresh ginger – For muddling to enhance the fresh, spicy flavor of ginger in the cocktail.
- Orange peel – A twist or strip of orange peel adds a citrusy brightness and aromatic oils to complement the flavors of the whiskey and ginger.
- Ice – Large ice cubes are preferred to minimize dilution.
- Club soda (optional) – To dilute the drink slightly if you prefer a lighter cocktail, though it’s not essential for the recipe.
Preparation
Step 1: Muddle the Ginger
Start by placing a small slice of fresh ginger at the bottom of an old-fashioned glass. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently muddle the ginger to release its natural oils and flavors. Be careful not to crush it too aggressively, as this could lead to bitterness. You just want to break the ginger open to release its spicy aroma.
Step 2: Add the Bitters and Ginger Syrup
Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters to the muddled ginger. Follow this by adding 1 tablespoon of ginger syrup (or ginger simple syrup). The ginger syrup is essential to the Ginger Old Fashioned, as it brings out the spiciness of ginger while balancing the cocktail’s sweetness. Stir gently to combine the ingredients and dissolve any sugar that may be in the syrup.
Step 3: Add the Whiskey
Pour in 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey into the glass, over the muddled ginger and bitters. Stir the mixture gently to ensure that all of the flavors are well incorporated. This helps the whiskey to meld with the ginger syrup and bitters. The whiskey is the backbone of this cocktail, so it’s important to choose a quality brand that suits your taste preferences.
Step 4: Add Ice
Fill the glass with large ice cubes. Using large ice cubes or a large ice sphere will slow the dilution of the drink and keep it colder longer, maintaining the integrity of the flavors. Stir the drink gently again to chill and mix the ingredients.
Step 5: Garnish
To finish the Ginger Old Fashioned, garnish with a twist or strip of orange peel. To release the oils, twist the peel over the drink before placing it in the glass. This will give the cocktail a fragrant citrus aroma that complements the richness of the whiskey and the spiciness of the ginger. Optionally, you can also garnish with a thin slice of ginger for an extra touch of spice and visual appeal.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Your Ginger Old Fashioned is now ready to serve! Sip slowly and enjoy the combination of the whiskey’s depth, the refreshing heat from the ginger, and the aromatic citrus notes. This cocktail is perfect for sipping on a cool evening or serving at your next gathering.
Variations
Ginger Whiskey Sour
If you like the flavor of ginger but prefer a sour note to balance the sweetness, try making a Ginger Whiskey Sour. Add fresh lemon juice and a dash of simple syrup to the Ginger Old Fashioned recipe. Shake well with ice and strain into a rocks glass for a delightful sour twist.
Ginger Old Fashioned with Rye
For a spicier, bolder take on the Ginger Old Fashioned, use rye whiskey instead of bourbon. Rye has a distinctive, peppery flavor that pairs beautifully with the ginger’s spice, creating a bold and flavorful cocktail.
Ginger Old Fashioned with Cinnamon
Add a pinch of cinnamon to the drink for a warm, seasonal twist. The cinnamon will enhance the spicy ginger flavor and give the drink an extra layer of complexity. Stir it into the drink before adding the whiskey and bitters.
Ginger Old Fashioned with Mint
For a refreshing herbal twist, muddle some fresh mint leaves along with the ginger. The mint will add a cool, bright contrast to the spicy ginger, making the drink even more refreshing.
Cooking Note
- Ginger syrup: If you can’t find ginger syrup, you can easily make your own by simmering equal parts sugar and water with fresh ginger slices until the syrup thickens and becomes infused with ginger flavor.
- Adjust sweetness: The sweetness of the cocktail can be adjusted by adding more or less ginger syrup, depending on your preference for a sweeter or spicier drink.
- Muddling ginger: Be careful not to over-muddle the ginger, as it can become bitter if over-extracted. A gentle muddle is enough to release the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Ginger Old Fashioned with charcuterie, like smoked meats, cheeses, or olives, to enhance the complex flavors of the cocktail.
- Serve with a dark chocolate dessert to complement the bold and spicy notes of the drink.
- This cocktail is perfect for after-dinner sipping or as a signature drink at a cocktail party.
Tips
- Use fresh ginger: Fresh ginger provides a much more vibrant and aromatic flavor than dried ginger powder. It’s worth the effort to use fresh ginger for this cocktail.
- Customize your syrup: For an even more customized cocktail, try making your own ginger syrup with additional spices like cloves, cardamom, or vanilla.
- Play with garnish: Experiment with different garnishes, like a cinnamon stick or cloves, to give the drink your own personal touch.
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~180 kcal
- Protein: ~0g
- Fat: ~0g
- Carbohydrates: ~20g
- Sugar: ~15g
- Sodium: ~5mg
FAQs
Can I use ginger beer instead of ginger syrup?
While ginger beer is a great mixer for cocktails, it has a fizzy, carbonated texture, which doesn’t work well in the Ginger Old Fashioned. For the best flavor and consistency, ginger syrup is the preferred ingredient.
Is ginger syrup the same as ginger simple syrup?
Yes, ginger syrup and ginger simple syrup are typically the same thing, made by combining sugar, water, and fresh ginger. It’s just a matter of terminology.
Can I make ginger syrup at home?
Yes, you can easily make ginger syrup at home by simmering equal parts sugar and water with fresh ginger slices. Once the syrup thickens, strain out the ginger and store it in a bottle or jar.
Conclusion
The Ginger Old Fashioned offers a fresh and exciting take on the traditional cocktail, combining the warmth and depth of whiskey with the spicy kick of fresh ginger. This drink is perfect for anyone who enjoys bold, flavorful cocktails with a bit of a twist. Whether you’re hosting a cocktail party or just relaxing at home, the Ginger Old Fashioned is a great choice that will impress your guests and satisfy your cravings for something unique and delicious. With its easy preparation and adaptable variations, this cocktail is sure to become a staple in your repertoire. Cheers!