The Top 10 Best Bourbons for Crafting the Perfect Old Fashioned: A Reddit Community Guide
Discover the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned on Reddit! Explore top recommendations from cocktail enthusiasts and elevate your drinking experience.
If you're a bourbon lover and a fan of classic cocktails, then you know that the Old Fashioned is a timeless drink that never goes out of style. This iconic cocktail has been around since the 1800s and has seen many variations over the years. But one thing that remains constant is the importance of using the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned.
With so many options available, choosing the right bourbon can be overwhelming. And that's where we come in. We've done the research and tasted countless bourbons to bring you our top picks for the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned.
First up on our list is the ever-popular Maker's Mark. This Kentucky straight bourbon is smooth and easy to drink, with notes of caramel and vanilla that perfectly complement the sweetness of the Old Fashioned.
Another great option is Knob Creek. This small-batch bourbon has a rich, full-bodied flavor with hints of oak and spice that add complexity to the cocktail.
For those who prefer a more robust bourbon, Wild Turkey 101 is a great choice. With a high proof and bold flavor, this bourbon can stand up to the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned without losing its character.
If you're looking for something a little different, try Bulleit Bourbon. This bourbon has a unique flavor profile with a spicy kick that adds a new dimension to the classic cocktail.
For those who want to splurge a bit, Pappy Van Winkle's Family Reserve 20 Year is a top-shelf bourbon that will take your Old Fashioned to the next level. This rare and highly sought-after bourbon has a smooth, velvety texture and a complex flavor that is unmatched by any other bourbon on the market.
When it comes to making an Old Fashioned, the type of bourbon you choose is only part of the equation. The other key components are the bitters and sugar.
Angostura bitters are a classic choice for an Old Fashioned, but there are also many other varieties available that can add new flavors and complexity to the cocktail. Some popular options include orange bitters, cherry bitters, and chocolate bitters.
When it comes to sugar, simple syrup is the easiest option, but you can also use raw sugar, honey, or maple syrup to add different flavors to the cocktail.
In conclusion, choosing the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned is a matter of personal preference. Whether you prefer a smooth and easy-to-drink bourbon like Maker's Mark or a bold and complex bourbon like Wild Turkey 101, there is a bourbon out there that will suit your taste. So grab a bottle, mix up a cocktail, and enjoy the timeless elegance of the Old Fashioned.
Introduction
Bourbon is a type of whiskey that has become increasingly popular over the years. It is a distilled spirit made from corn, and it is often aged in charred oak barrels. Bourbon is a versatile drink that can be enjoyed on its own or used as a base for cocktails. One of the most popular bourbon cocktails is the Old Fashioned. The Old Fashioned is a simple cocktail that consists of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. In this article, we will discuss the best bourbons for making an Old Fashioned.
What to Look for in a Bourbon
When choosing a bourbon for an Old Fashioned, there are a few things that you should look for. First, you want a bourbon that is smooth and easy to drink. You don't want a bourbon that is too harsh or overpowering, as it will clash with the other ingredients in the cocktail. Second, you want a bourbon that has a good balance of flavors. A bourbon that is too sweet or too spicy will not work well in an Old Fashioned. Finally, you want a bourbon that is reasonably priced. While there are some expensive bourbons that are excellent, you don't want to break the bank when making a cocktail.
Elijah Craig Small Batch
Elijah Craig Small Batch is a great bourbon for making an Old Fashioned. It is a relatively affordable bourbon, and it has a smooth, rich flavor that works well in cocktails. Elijah Craig Small Batch is aged for 8-12 years, which gives it a mellow, oaky flavor. It also has notes of vanilla, caramel, and toasted nuts, which make it a great choice for an Old Fashioned.
Bulleit Bourbon
Bulleit Bourbon is another excellent choice for an Old Fashioned. It is a high-rye bourbon, which means that it has a spicy flavor that works well with the other ingredients in the cocktail. Bulleit Bourbon also has notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, which give it a smooth, rich flavor. It is reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to make an Old Fashioned without breaking the bank.
Four Roses Small Batch
Four Roses Small Batch is a premium bourbon that is perfect for making an Old Fashioned. It is made from a blend of four different bourbons, which gives it a complex, layered flavor. Four Roses Small Batch is aged for 6-7 years, which gives it a smooth, mellow flavor. It also has notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, which make it a great choice for an Old Fashioned.
Wild Turkey 101
Wild Turkey 101 is a high-proof bourbon that is perfect for making an Old Fashioned. It is made from a blend of bourbons that are aged for 6-8 years, which gives it a smooth, rich flavor. Wild Turkey 101 also has a spicy kick that works well in cocktails. It is reasonably priced, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to make an Old Fashioned on a budget.
Buffalo Trace
Buffalo Trace is a premium bourbon that is perfect for making an Old Fashioned. It is aged for 8-10 years, which gives it a smooth, mellow flavor. Buffalo Trace also has notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, which make it a great choice for an Old Fashioned. It is a little more expensive than some of the other bourbons on this list, but it is worth the extra cost for anyone who wants to make a truly excellent cocktail.
Knob Creek
Knob Creek is a premium bourbon that is perfect for making an Old Fashioned. It is aged for 9 years, which gives it a smooth, mellow flavor. Knob Creek also has notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, which make it a great choice for an Old Fashioned. It is a little more expensive than some of the other bourbons on this list, but it is worth the extra cost for anyone who wants to make a truly excellent cocktail.
Conclusion
Choosing the right bourbon for an Old Fashioned can make all the difference in the quality of the cocktail. The bourbons listed above are all excellent choices for anyone who wants to make an Old Fashioned. Whether you choose a budget-friendly option like Elijah Craig Small Batch or a premium bourbon like Buffalo Trace, you can't go wrong with any of these choices. So go ahead and experiment with different bourbons to find your perfect Old Fashioned!
The Classic Bourbon that Never Goes Out of Style for Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around for over 100 years. It's a simple yet delicious drink that can be made with a variety of bourbons. However, if you're looking for a classic bourbon that never goes out of style for an Old Fashioned, then look no further than Maker's Mark.Maker's Mark is a smooth and approachable bourbon that is perfect for an Old Fashioned. It's made with soft red winter wheat instead of rye, which gives it a sweeter and smoother taste. This makes it an excellent choice for those who are new to bourbon or prefer a milder flavor.Why Maker's Mark is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Maker's Mark is a great choice for an Old Fashioned because it has a balanced flavor profile. It's not too sweet or too spicy, making it a versatile bourbon that can be enjoyed by everyone. It also has a rich caramel flavor with hints of vanilla and oak, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.If you're looking for a bourbon that will complement the other ingredients in your Old Fashioned without overpowering them, then Maker's Mark is the way to go. It's a classic bourbon that will never go out of style and is sure to impress any whiskey lover.Bold and Spicy Bourbon Picks for a Perfect Old Fashioned Cocktail
If you're looking for a bourbon with a bit more kick to it for your Old Fashioned, then you'll want to choose a bold and spicy bourbon. These bourbons have a higher percentage of rye in the mash bill, which gives them a spicier and more complex flavor.One excellent choice for a bold and spicy bourbon for an Old Fashioned is Bulleit Bourbon. This bourbon has a high rye content, which gives it a bold and spicy flavor profile. It's also aged in charred American oak barrels, which gives it a rich and smoky aroma.Why Bulleit Bourbon is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Bulleit Bourbon is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned because it has a bold and spicy flavor that can hold its own against the other ingredients in the cocktail. It has a complex flavor profile with notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be used in other cocktails, such as a Manhattan or a Whiskey Sour. If you're looking for a bourbon with a bit more complexity and kick to it, then Bulleit Bourbon is an excellent choice for your Old Fashioned.Smooth and Mellow Bourbons to Elevate Your Old Fashioned Game
For those who prefer a smoother and milder flavor profile in their Old Fashioned, there are plenty of bourbons to choose from. These bourbons are typically made with less rye in the mash bill, which gives them a smoother and more mellow taste.One excellent choice for a smooth and mellow bourbon for an Old Fashioned is Woodford Reserve. This bourbon is made with a high percentage of corn in the mash bill, which gives it a sweet and mellow flavor. It's also aged in new charred oak barrels, which gives it a rich and complex aroma.Why Woodford Reserve is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Woodford Reserve is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned because it has a smooth and mellow flavor that will complement the other ingredients in the cocktail. It has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of caramel and vanilla, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be used in other cocktails, such as a Mint Julep or a Boulevardier. If you're looking for a smooth and mellow bourbon that will elevate your Old Fashioned game, then Woodford Reserve is an excellent choice.Top Bourbon Brands for Making Old Fashioned with a Modern Twist
While the Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail, there are plenty of ways to give it a modern twist. One way to do this is by using a premium bourbon that has unique flavor notes or is aged in a unique way.One top bourbon brand for making an Old Fashioned with a modern twist is Angel's Envy. This bourbon is finished in port wine barrels, which gives it a unique flavor profile with notes of cherry, vanilla, and spice. It's also aged for up to six years, which gives it a rich and complex aroma.Why Angel's Envy is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Angel's Envy is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned with a modern twist because it has a unique flavor profile that will add depth and complexity to the cocktail. It has a sweet and fruity flavor with hints of vanilla and spice, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be used in other cocktails, such as a Whiskey Sour or a Manhattan. If you're looking for a premium bourbon that will take your Old Fashioned to the next level, then Angel's Envy is an excellent choice.High-Quality Bourbons for a Premium Old Fashioned Experience
If you're looking for a premium Old Fashioned experience, then you'll want to choose a high-quality bourbon. These bourbons are typically aged for longer periods of time and have unique flavor profiles that are perfect for sipping.One high-quality bourbon for a premium Old Fashioned experience is Pappy Van Winkle. This bourbon is aged for up to 23 years, which gives it a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, oak, and vanilla. It's also made in limited quantities, which makes it a highly sought-after bourbon.Why Pappy Van Winkle is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Pappy Van Winkle is an excellent choice for a premium Old Fashioned experience because it has a rich and complex flavor profile that will impress any whiskey lover. It has a smooth and mellow flavor with hints of caramel, oak, and vanilla, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be sipped on its own or used in other cocktails, such as a Boulevardier or a Sazerac. If you're looking for a high-quality bourbon that will give you a premium Old Fashioned experience, then Pappy Van Winkle is the way to go.Affordable Bourbons that Don't Compromise on Taste for Old Fashioned
While premium bourbons can be expensive, there are plenty of affordable bourbons that don't compromise on taste. These bourbons are perfect for making an Old Fashioned without breaking the bank.One affordable bourbon that doesn't compromise on taste for an Old Fashioned is Evan Williams. This bourbon is made with a high percentage of corn in the mash bill, which gives it a sweet and mellow flavor. It's also aged for up to seven years, which gives it a rich and complex aroma.Why Evan Williams is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Evan Williams is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned because it's affordable and doesn't compromise on taste. It has a sweet and mellow flavor with hints of caramel and vanilla, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be used in other cocktails, such as a Mint Julep or a Whiskey Sour. If you're looking for an affordable bourbon that will give you a great Old Fashioned experience, then Evan Williams is an excellent choice.Unique Bourbon Flavors to Add a Twist to Your Old Fashioned
While the classic Old Fashioned is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to add a twist to it by using bourbons with unique flavor profiles. These bourbons can add depth and complexity to the cocktail and make it even more enjoyable.One unique bourbon flavor to add a twist to your Old Fashioned is Knob Creek Smoked Maple. This bourbon is made with natural maple flavors and smoked hickory essence, which gives it a sweet and smoky flavor profile. It's also aged for up to nine years, which gives it a rich and complex aroma.Why Knob Creek Smoked Maple is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Knob Creek Smoked Maple is an excellent choice for adding a twist to your Old Fashioned because it has a unique flavor profile that will impress any whiskey lover. It has a sweet and smoky flavor with notes of maple and hickory, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be used in other cocktails, such as a Maple Old Fashioned or a Smoked Manhattan. If you're looking for a unique bourbon flavor to add a twist to your Old Fashioned, then Knob Creek Smoked Maple is an excellent choice.Small Batch Bourbons That Are Perfect for Old Fashioned Enthusiasts
For Old Fashioned enthusiasts who want to try something new, there are plenty of small batch bourbons to choose from. These bourbons are typically made in limited quantities and have unique flavor profiles that are perfect for sipping.One small batch bourbon that is perfect for Old Fashioned enthusiasts is Four Roses Small Batch. This bourbon is made with a blend of four different recipes, which gives it a complex and nuanced flavor profile. It's also aged for up to seven years, which gives it a rich and complex aroma.Why Four Roses Small Batch is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Four Roses Small Batch is an excellent choice for Old Fashioned enthusiasts because it has a unique and complex flavor profile that will impress any whiskey lover. It has a spicy and fruity flavor with hints of caramel and vanilla, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be used in other cocktails, such as a Kentucky Mule or a Bourbon Sour. If you're looking for a small batch bourbon that will give you a unique Old Fashioned experience, then Four Roses Small Batch is an excellent choice.Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned with a Strong Finish and Rich Aroma
If you're looking for a bourbon with a strong finish and rich aroma for your Old Fashioned, then you'll want to choose a bourbon that is aged for longer periods of time. These bourbons have a more complex flavor profile and are perfect for sipping.One excellent choice for a bourbon with a strong finish and rich aroma for an Old Fashioned is Wild Turkey Rare Breed. This bourbon is a blend of six, eight, and 12-year-old bourbons, which gives it a complex and nuanced flavor profile. It's also bottled at barrel proof, which gives it a strong and robust finish.Why Wild Turkey Rare Breed is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Wild Turkey Rare Breed is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned with a strong finish and rich aroma because it has a complex and nuanced flavor profile that will impress any whiskey lover. It has a spicy and fruity flavor with hints of caramel and oak, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be used in other cocktails, such as a Kentucky Mule or a Whiskey Sour. If you're looking for a bourbon with a strong finish and rich aroma for your Old Fashioned, then Wild Turkey Rare Breed is an excellent choice.Top Bourbon Picks for Old Fashioned that Will Impress Any Whiskey Lover
Finally, if you're looking for the top bourbon picks for an Old Fashioned that will impress any whiskey lover, then you'll want to choose a premium bourbon with a complex flavor profile. These bourbons are typically aged for longer periods of time and have unique flavor notes that are perfect for sipping.One top bourbon pick for an Old Fashioned that will impress any whiskey lover is Blanton's Single Barrel. This bourbon is aged for up to eight years, which gives it a rich and complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice. It's also bottled at a higher proof, which gives it a strong and robust finish.Why Blanton's Single Barrel is the Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned
Blanton's Single Barrel is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned that will impress any whiskey lover because it has a unique and complex flavor profile. It has a sweet and nutty flavor with hints of caramel, vanilla, and spice, which pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar in an Old Fashioned.This bourbon is also versatile enough to be used in other cocktails, such as a Boulevardier or a Sazerac. If you're looking for the top bourbon pick for an Old Fashioned that will impress any whiskey lover, then Blanton's Single Barrel is the way to go.In conclusion, there are plenty of bourbons to choose from when making an Old Fashioned. Whether you prefer a classic bourbon like Maker's Mark or a unique flavor profile like Knob Creek Smoked Maple, there's a bourbon out there that will suit your taste. By choosing the right bourbon, you can elevate your Old Fashioned game and impress any whiskey lover.Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned Reddit
Point of View
As an avid bourbon drinker, I believe that the best bourbon for an old fashioned is one that has a high proof, a rich flavor profile, and can stand up to the other ingredients in the cocktail. A good old fashioned should be smooth, flavorful, and have a balance of sweetness and bitterness. After trying several bourbons in an old fashioned, I have found that the following options are the best:1. Woodford Reserve
Pros:
- Smooth and balanced flavor
- High proof (90.4)
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- May be too sweet for some palates
- Not as complex as other high-end bourbons
2. Bulleit Bourbon
Pros:
- Rich and spicy flavor
- High proof (90)
- Affordable
Cons:
- May be too harsh for some drinkers
- Not as smooth as other high-end bourbons
3. Maker's Mark
Pros:
- Smooth and mellow flavor
- Reasonably priced
- Easy to find in most liquor stores
Cons:
- Low proof (45)
- May not have enough complexity for some drinkers
Table Comparison
| Bourbon | Proof | Price | Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|---|
| Woodford Reserve | 90.4 | $30-40 | Smooth and balanced, with a hint of sweetness |
| Bulleit Bourbon | 90 | $20-30 | Rich and spicy, with a slight bitterness |
| Maker's Mark | 45 | $25-35 | Smooth and mellow, with a subtle sweetness |
The Best Bourbon for Old Fashioned: A Comprehensive Guide
Hello there, dear blog visitors! We hope you've enjoyed reading our comprehensive guide on the best bourbon for old fashioned. As we come to the end of this article, we'd like to summarize everything we've covered so far and provide you with a few final thoughts.
First of all, we'd like to emphasize that choosing the right bourbon for your old fashioned is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of flavors. As we've discussed in previous paragraphs, different bourbons have varying levels of sweetness, spice, and complexity, which can affect the overall taste of your cocktail.
When selecting a bourbon for your old fashioned, it's important to keep in mind your personal preferences and the type of flavors you're looking to highlight. Some people prefer sweeter, smoother bourbons, while others enjoy bolder, spicier ones.
One of the best bourbons for old fashioned that we've recommended is Maker's Mark. This bourbon is known for its smooth, mellow flavor and notes of vanilla and caramel, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a sweeter taste.
Another great option we've mentioned is Wild Turkey 101. This bourbon has a higher alcohol content, which gives it a stronger, more robust flavor with hints of oak and spice. If you're looking for a bolder taste, this might be the bourbon for you.
Of course, these are just two examples out of the many bourbons available on the market. There are plenty of other options out there that you may want to explore, depending on your taste preferences and budget.
When making an old fashioned, it's important to remember that the quality of your ingredients matters. In addition to choosing the right bourbon, you'll also need to select a good quality bitters and sweetener.
We've recommended using Angostura bitters in our recipe, as it's a classic choice that pairs well with most bourbons. As for sweeteners, you can use sugar, simple syrup, or even maple syrup, depending on your taste.
When it comes to mixing your old fashioned, be sure to take your time and muddle the ingredients gently to release the flavors without overdoing it. And don't forget to garnish your cocktail with a twist of orange peel or a cherry for an extra pop of flavor!
In conclusion, we hope that our guide has provided you with some valuable insights into the best bourbon for old fashioned. Remember to keep your personal taste preferences in mind when selecting a bourbon, and don't be afraid to experiment with different ingredients to find your perfect mix.
Thank you for taking the time to read our article, and happy old fashioned-making!
People also ask about the best bourbon for an Old Fashioned on Reddit
What is an Old Fashioned?
An Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a citrus peel. It is typically served over ice in a rocks glass.
What makes a good bourbon for an Old Fashioned?
A good bourbon for an Old Fashioned should have a high proof and a strong flavor profile that can stand up to the other ingredients. It should also be smooth and well-balanced.
What are some of the best bourbons for an Old Fashioned according to Reddit users?
According to Reddit users, some of the best bourbons for an Old Fashioned include:
Bulleit Bourbon - Bulleit Bourbon is a high-rye bourbon with a bold, spicy flavor that pairs well with the sweetness of the sugar in an Old Fashioned.
Four Roses Single Barrel - Four Roses Single Barrel is a smooth, complex bourbon with notes of caramel and vanilla that complement the bitters in an Old Fashioned.
Wild Turkey 101 - Wild Turkey 101 is a high-proof bourbon with a rich, full-bodied flavor that stands up well to the other ingredients in an Old Fashioned.
Maker's Mark - Maker's Mark is a wheated bourbon with a smooth, mellow flavor that provides a nice balance to the other ingredients in an Old Fashioned.
Woodford Reserve - Woodford Reserve is a well-rounded bourbon with notes of spice, fruit, and oak that make it a great choice for an Old Fashioned.
Can I use rye whiskey instead of bourbon in an Old Fashioned?
Yes, you can use rye whiskey instead of bourbon in an Old Fashioned. Rye whiskey has a spicier flavor profile that pairs well with the bitters and citrus in the drink.
Can I use a flavored bourbon in an Old Fashioned?
While you can use a flavored bourbon in an Old Fashioned, it is generally recommended to stick with a traditional bourbon to maintain the classic flavor profile of the drink.