Rum Old Fashioned recipe

The Old Fashioned is as classic as cocktails come. Served all over the world, it’s as popular now as it was more than a century ago. Part of its appeal is that, even though the drink is steeped in tradition, it offers endless personalization opportunities to the adventurous consumer.

The Rum Old Fashioned: A Delightful Twist on a Classic Cocktail

The Rum Old Fashioned is an innovative take on the traditional Old Fashioned cocktail, challenging the notion that whiskey is the only spirit suitable for this timeless drink. While some purists may scoff at the idea of using rum, it’s essential to recognize that the Old Fashioned is more of a template than a strict recipe. Defined as a mix of a spirit, sugar, water, and bitters—the same foundational formula as the first recorded definition of the word "cocktail"—the Old Fashioned allows for creativity and personalization.

The Historical Context

Renowned bartender and author Jerry Thomas even included an Old Fashioned made with Holland gin in his 1862 classic, The Bartenders Guide. This historical context underscores the flexibility of the Old Fashioned, encouraging experimentation beyond whiskey. By embracing this spirit-forward approach, cocktail enthusiasts can explore excellent alternatives like the Oaxacan Old Fashioned, which features tequila and mezcal, or the delightful Rum Old Fashioned.

Crafting the Perfect Rum Old Fashioned

There are countless ways to create a Rum Old Fashioned, varying by the choice of rum, sweeteners, and bitters. This particular version features:

2 ounces dark rum: Aged in barrels, dark rum brings rich oaky notes that will appeal to whiskey lovers.
1 teaspoon allspice dram: This spiced liqueur adds a layer of complexity and warmth to the cocktail.
1 teaspoon demerara syrup: Made from raw cane sugar, this syrup offers a deeper flavor and richer mouthfeel compared to simple syrup.
2 dashes Angostura bitters: These bitters provide bold aromatic notes and structure.
2 dashes orange bitters: Enhancing the cocktail with a zesty citrus element, orange bitters complement the richness of the rum.

Steps to Make a Rum Old Fashioned

Prepare Your Glass: Start by placing a large ice cube into an Old Fashioned glass. The large cube will chill your drink while minimizing dilution.
Combine Ingredients: Add the dark rum, allspice dram, demerara syrup, and both Angostura and orange bitters into the glass.
Stir and Chill: Stir the mixture gently until well-chilled. This process blends the flavors while maintaining the drink's integrity.
Garnish: Finish off your Rum Old Fashioned with an orange twist. Express the oils from the peel over the drink to enhance the aromatic experience, and then drop it into the glass.

Conclusion

The Rum Old Fashioned is a delightful reinterpretation of a classic cocktail that bridges the gap between traditional whiskey lovers and adventurous drinkers. Its rich flavors and unique character mirror those of the original Old Fashioned, providing a familiar yet refreshing experience. Whether you're a cocktail purist or a curious enthusiast, the Rum Old Fashioned is a drink you’ll want to explore. So gather your ingredients, mix one up, and savor this elegant twist on a timeless favorite!