Get Your “Oldie But Goodie” On A Deep Dive into Old Fashioned Kits

18 Feb Get Your “Oldie But Goodie” On A Deep Dive into Old Fashioned Kits

Hey there, cocktail enthusiasts! Do you ever get that craving for a classic drink, something timeless and sophisticated? If so, you’re probably no stranger to the granddaddy of them all – the Old Fashioned Kits. This simple yet potent cocktail is a perfect embodiment of why some things get better with age. And to give your home bar a touch of that old-school charm, there’s nothing better than an Old Fashioned kit.

What’s the Deal with Old Fashioned Kits?

Think of an Old Fashioned kit as a cocktail starter pack. It’s a curated collection of all the essentials you need to whip up this iconic drink. Most kits include some standard stuff like bitters, sugar, and garnishes. Sometimes, you might even find specialty items like cocktail smokers or fancy mixing tools. The goal is to give you everything for that authentic Old Fashioned experience right at home.

Why Bother With a Kit?

Okay, I’ll admit, with a simple drink like the Old Fashioned, you could get by with rummaging through your pantry. But hey, where’s the fun in that? Here’s why a kit is worth it:

• It’s a Masterclass in a Box: Think of it as a crash course in cocktail artistry. Some kits even have recipes or instructions. Ideal if you’re a newbie to the world of mixology.
• Quality Upgrade: Kits bring all the good stuff – premium bitters, fancy sugars, and unique ingredients you might not normally have on hand. Talk about taking your Old Fashioneds to the next level!
• Perfect for Gifting: Do you have a friend obsessed with making drinks? An Old Fashioned kit is a cool and practical gift they’ll actually use.

Ready to Build Your Kit?

If you’re the DIY type, good for you! You can totally put together your own customized Old Fashioned kit. Let’s take a look at what you might need:

The Essentials

• Booze: You can’t have an Old Fashioned without something stiff! Traditionally, this calls for either bourbon or rye whiskey. If you’re feeling adventurous, play around with aged rum or brandy – those work surprisingly well, too.
• Sweetener: Traditionally, it was just a simple sugar cube. For a classic vibe, stick with that, or try syrups like demerara or maple for a little twist.
• Bitters: This is the magic touch, that subtle complexity that separates the Old Fashioned from plain whiskey on the rocks. Classic Angostura bitters are your best bet, but orange bitters also play nicely here.
• Garnishes: Orange peel, cherry – simple classics that add a visual pop and enhance flavor. Get creative – candied ginger or even a sprig of rosemary are fun twists.

The Fancy Extras

Want to take it further? Add in some of these:

• Cocktail Smoker: Gives your drink a whole new depth with notes of hickory, cherrywood, or applewood.
• Muddler: Ideal for mashing citrus and releasing those yummy oils.
• Bar Spoon: This long, elegant spoon is perfect for gently stirring your cocktail.
• Fancy Ice Molds: Level up your drink with clear ice spheres or cubes.

Shopping For a Pre-Made Kit

Not the DIY type? Don’t sweat it! Tons of amazing pre-made Old Fashioned kits are out there. Here’s what to look for:

• The Ingredients: Premium ingredients equal premium drinks. Opt for kits with things like all-natural bitters, quality syrups, and interesting garnishes.
• Yield: How many servings does the kit include? Smaller kits are fine for experimenting, while larger ones are better if you entertain regularly.
• Extras: Consider the level of equipment included. Do you want just the basics, or perhaps a smoker or fancy mixer?

Making an Old Fashioned Like a Pro (Even if You’re Not)

So, you’ve got your kit in hand, and you’re ready to get mixing. Remember, even though it’s an ‘old’ recipe, the Old Fashioned isn’t meant to be stuffy. Have fun with it!

Here’s a basic rundown with room to get creative:

1. Muddle Up: If using a sugar cube, drop it in your glass with a few dashes of bitters and a splash of water. Muddle until the sugar dissolves. Otherwise, combine your syrup and bitters.
2. Get Icy: Fill your glass with ice. Big cubes or spheres are ideal for slower dilution.
3. Booze Time: Add your whiskey (or spirit of choice). About 2 ounces is standard.
4. Stir it Like You Mean It: Not quite shaken, not just a little twirl. You want around 30 seconds of steady stirring to chill and bring all the flavors together.
5. Garnish with Gusto: Express the oils of an orange peel over the drink (you can twist it and run it around the rim), then drop it in. Add your cherry or any other fancy garnish.

Tips from the “Been There, Drank That” Crowd

• Play with Proportions: Try tweaking the amount of sweetener or bitters to personalize your drink.
• Ice Matters: Good ice keeps your drink from getting too watered down and ruining the perfect balance.
• Quality Before Quantity: Don’t overcomplicate it with a million ingredients. A few carefully chosen ones make a far better cocktail.

FAQs

1. Does an Old Fashioned kit make a good gift?

Absolutely! It’s unique and something they’ll love using, especially for anyone who appreciates whiskey, classic cocktails, or vintage vibes.

2. Are they expensive?

Kits range in price depending on the brands of ingredients and how elaborate they are. You can find smaller basic kits for reasonable prices and pricier ones with premium items.

3. Is the included booze any good?

Sometimes, kits come with mini bottles of spirits. These vary in quality, so if you’re picky about your whiskey, get a kit without this inclusion.

4. Should I get the one with the smoker?

If you’re into that subtle smoky flavor, go for it! It’s a fun tool to play with, especially if you already like cocktails on the bolder side.

5. How long do the ingredients typically last?

It depends on the specific kit. Sugar and bitters last a long time. For pre-mixed syrups, check their expiration dates. Generally, kits are best used within a few months to ensure freshness.

In Conclusion

An Old Fashioned kit is a fantastic way to elevate your home cocktail game. Discover the truth behind 10 myths about wine: true or false? and see how, whether you’re seeking a DIY challenge, a thoughtful gift, or a classic cocktail shortcut, our kits offer elegance and enjoyment. Now, start whipping up your timeless drinks! Cheers!