The Old Fashioned, a timeless cocktail traditionally crafted with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water, has seen countless variations over the years. But what happens when you swap the whiskey for a sophisticated spirit like Añejo Tequila? The result is a delightful and complex drink that respects the traditions of the Old Fashioned while offering a unique flavor profile.
A Brief History of the Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned dates back to the 19th century, evolving from what was simply known as the “Whiskey Cocktail” – a combination of spirit, sugar, water, and bitters. As bartenders began experimenting with new liqueurs and ingredients in the 1870s, some traditionalists requested a return to the simpler, “old-fashioned” style, thus giving the drink its name. The exact origin is debatable, but the prevailing story suggests it emerged in the early 1800s. George Kappeler provided some of the earliest published recipes for old-fashioned cocktails in his 1895 book, offering variations using whiskey, brandy, Holland gin, and Old Tom gin.
Why Añejo Tequila Works
Añejo tequila, aged for one to three years in oak barrels, offers a depth of flavor that complements the Old Fashioned perfectly. The aging process imparts notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, similar to those found in aged whiskeys. This makes Añejo a natural substitute, adding a Mexican twist to a classic American cocktail. While reposado tequila (aged 2 months to a year) can be used, Añejo offers a richer, more decadent experience. Extra Añejo tequilas, aged for over three years, can also be used, but they are often expensive and may not be necessary for this application.
The Añejo Old Fashioned Recipe
Here’s a recipe for crafting the perfect Añejo Old Fashioned:
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces Añejo Tequila
- 1/4 ounce agave nectar or simple syrup (adjust to taste)
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters (or other bitters, see variations below)
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Optional: Brandied cherry, for garnish
Instructions:
- In a mixing glass, gently muddle the agave nectar (or simple syrup), bitters, and orange peel. Muddle gently to release the oils from the orange peel without over-extracting bitterness.
- Add the Añejo Tequila to the mixing glass.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice.
- Stir well until the mixture is well-chilled (about 20-30 seconds).
- Strain the mixture into an Old Fashioned glass over a large ice cube (or several smaller cubes).
- Garnish with a fresh orange peel, expressing the oils over the drink before placing it in the glass. Add a brandied cherry, if desired.
Choosing the Right Añejo Tequila
The quality of the Añejo tequila significantly impacts the final cocktail. Look for bottles that offer a balance of agave flavor and barrel-aged notes. Some recommended brands include:
- Herradura Añejo: Known for its quality and smooth flavor profile, it’s a favorite for Añejo Old Fashioneds.
- Partida Añejo: Offers a balanced profile that allows the agave to shine.
- El Tesoro Añejo: Features a mix of sweet agave, pepper, oak, and floral tones.
- Don Julio Añejo: A popular choice for its smooth and refined taste.
- Casamigos Añejo: Known for its vanilla and caramel notes.
- Olmeca Altos Añejo: A great overall option
- Milagro Añejo: Best option if under $30
- 1800 Añejo: Great option if under $50
- Hornitos Añejo: A great bottle that won’t break the bank
Avoid tequilas that taste overly woody, as the aging process should complement, not mask, the agave flavor.
Variations and Twists
The Añejo Old Fashioned is a versatile cocktail that can be customized to suit individual preferences. Here are a few variations to try:
- Spicy Añejo Old Fashioned: Muddle a slice of jalapeño or a few chili peppers with the sugar and bitters for a spicy kick. Habanero bitters can also add heat.
- Smoky Añejo Old Fashioned: Add a splash of mezcal to introduce a smoky layer of complexity.
- Chocolate Añejo Old Fashioned: Use chocolate or mole bitters to complement the vanilla and caramel notes in Añejo tequila.
- Citrus Twist: Replace the orange peel with a lime or grapefruit peel for a different citrus aroma.
- Cinnamon Spice: Add a cinnamon stick as a garnish or use cinnamon syrup instead of simple syrup.
- Coffee Infusion: Substitute the sugar cube with a teaspoon of coffee-flavored liqueur for a coffee-inspired twist.
- Vanilla Syrup: Use vanilla syrup instead of agave nectar for a sweeter flavor
Tips for the Perfect Añejo Old Fashioned
- Use quality ingredients: The better the tequila, the better the cocktail.
- Don’t over-muddle: Muddle the orange peel and sugar gently to release the oils without extracting bitterness.
- Stir, don’t shake: Stirring chills the cocktail while maintaining its smooth texture. Shaking can over-dilute the drink and create a cloudy appearance.
- Use large ice cubes: Large ice cubes melt slower, keeping the cocktail colder for longer without over-diluting it.
- Garnish thoughtfully: The orange peel adds aroma and flavor. Express the oils over the drink before placing it in the glass.
- Adjust to taste: Adjust the amount of agave nectar or simple syrup to your preference. Some Añejo tequilas are sweeter than others, so you may need to adjust the sweetness accordingly.
The Allure of the Añejo Old Fashioned
The Añejo Old Fashioned offers a unique and sophisticated drinking experience. It’s a drink that appeals to both Old Fashioned purists and tequila aficionados. The combination of aged Añejo tequila, bitters, and a touch of sweetness creates a complex and satisfying flavor profile.
The Añejo Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it’s a testament to the enduring appeal of classic drinks and the endless possibilities of experimentation. By swapping the traditional whiskey for Añejo tequila, you can create a drink that is both familiar and unique, paying homage to the past while embracing new flavors and experiences. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a home enthusiast, the Añejo Old Fashioned is a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their cocktail game.
