The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It’s a simple drink that consists of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. However, in recent years, bartenders have been experimenting with different variations of the Old Fashioned, adding new ingredients and flavors to create unique and exciting twists on the classic recipe. One such variation is the Rhoback Old Fashioned.
What is the Rhoback Old Fashioned?
The Rhoback Old Fashioned is a modern take on the classic cocktail that was created by the team at Rhoback, a clothing company based in Virginia. The drink is made with bourbon, maple syrup, orange bitters, and a splash of soda water. It’s served over ice and garnished with an orange peel.
The History of the Old Fashioned
Before we dive into the details of the Rhoback Old Fashioned, let’s take a brief look at the history of the classic cocktail. The Old Fashioned is believed to have originated in the late 1800s, when bartenders began serving whiskey cocktails with sugar, bitters, and water. Over time, the water was replaced with ice, and the drink became known as the Old Fashioned.
During Prohibition, the Old Fashioned became even more popular as people began using it to mask the taste of bootleg whiskey. After Prohibition ended, the cocktail continued to be a favorite among drinkers and was often served at social events and gatherings.
The Ingredients of the Rhoback Old Fashioned
Now that we’ve covered the history of the Old Fashioned, let’s take a closer look at the ingredients that make up the Rhoback variation. The first ingredient is bourbon, which is a type of whiskey that is made from at least 51% corn. Bourbon is known for its sweet, smooth flavor and is the perfect base for the Rhoback Old Fashioned.
The second ingredient is maple syrup, which is used in place of sugar. Maple syrup adds a rich, complex sweetness to the cocktail and pairs perfectly with the bourbon. The third ingredient is orange bitters, which are made from bitter orange peel and other botanicals. The bitters add a subtle citrus flavor and balance out the sweetness of the maple syrup.
Finally, a splash of soda water is added to the cocktail to give it a bit of fizz and lighten up the drink. The soda water also helps to bring out the flavors of the other ingredients and make them more pronounced.
The Taste of the Rhoback Old Fashioned
The Rhoback Old Fashioned is a delicious and complex cocktail that has a perfect balance of sweetness and bitterness. The bourbon provides a smooth, rich flavor that is complemented by the sweetness of the maple syrup. The orange bitters add a subtle citrus flavor that balances out the sweetness and gives the cocktail a slightly bitter finish.
The soda water adds a bit of fizz and lightens up the drink, making it refreshing and easy to drink. Overall, the Rhoback Old Fashioned is a well-balanced cocktail that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying with friends at a social gathering.
How to Make the Rhoback Old Fashioned
If you want to try making the Rhoback Old Fashioned at home, here’s what you’ll need:
– 2 oz bourbon
– 1/2 oz maple syrup
– 2 dashes orange bitters
– Soda water
– Orange peel for garnish
To make the cocktail, fill a rocks glass with ice. Add the bourbon, maple syrup, and orange bitters to the glass and stir well. Top the cocktail with a splash of soda water and garnish with an orange peel.
The Final Word
The Rhoback Old Fashioned is a modern take on a classic cocktail that is sure to impress. The combination of bourbon, maple syrup, orange bitters, and soda water creates a delicious and complex flavor that is perfect for sipping on a warm summer evening or enjoying with friends at a social gathering.
Whether you’re a fan of the classic Old Fashioned or you’re looking for a new twist on an old favorite, the Rhoback Old Fashioned is definitely worth trying. So why not mix one up tonight and see for yourself how delicious this cocktail can be?
