Indulge in the rich and smooth flavors of Butte Water - a simple yet satisfying cocktail made with a splash of Butterscotch Schnapps and a shot of Rye or Whiskey. Perfect for those seeking a delectable spin on classic cocktails, this recipe is a must-try for any aspiring bartender. Mix up this delicious treat tonight!
Butte Water Ingredients
- 1 splash Butterscotch Schnapps
- 1 shot Rye/Whiskey
Butte Water Recipe
- stir the ingredients together with ice
- pour into glass
The Old Fashioned: A Classic Cocktail that Stands the Test of Time
As a professional bartender, I have seen trends come and go, but one cocktail that has stood the test of time is the Old Fashioned. This timeless drink is loved by cocktail enthusiasts worldwide, and for a good reason. In this article, we will explore the popularity of this drink, its ingredients, how to garnish it, variations, and common mistakes when making it.
Popularity of the Old Fashioned
History and Origins
The Old Fashioned cocktail is said to have originated in the early 1800s. It was initially called the "Whiskey Cocktail," and it was made by combining whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water. It was later called the "Old Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail," and the name was eventually shortened to just "Old Fashioned" in the 1880s.
Famous For
The Old Fashioned is famous for its simplicity and the way it highlights the flavors of the whiskey. It is also known for being a favorite drink of Don Draper, the main character in the popular TV show "Mad Men."
Geographic Popularity
The Old Fashioned is a popular drink worldwide, but it has a strong association with the American South. In Wisconsin, it is the official state cocktail.
Appearance
The Old Fashioned is a served in a short glass, traditionally an Old Fashioned glass, and garnished with an orange slice and a cherry.
Ingredient Roles
The Old Fashioned is a simple drink, but its ingredients play a crucial role in its flavor profile.
Butte Water Ingredients
The Butte Water Ingredients version of the Old Fashioned includes a splash of Butterscotch Schnapps and a shot of Rye/Whiskey. This variation adds a touch of sweetness and complexity to the drink.
Other Ingredients
The classic Old Fashioned is made with bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and water. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in the final product. The whiskey is the star of the show, while the sugar balances out the bitterness of the bitters. The bitters add complexity and depth to the drink, and the water dilutes it to the perfect strength.
How to Garnish
Garnishing an Old Fashioned is simple, but it can make a significant difference in the drink's appearance and flavor.
Orange Slice
An orange slice is the most common garnish for an Old Fashioned. It adds a touch of sweetness and brightens up the drink's appearance.
Cherry
A cherry is another common garnish for an Old Fashioned. It adds a pop of color and sweetness to the drink.
Variations
The Old Fashioned is a versatile drink, and there are many variations to suit different tastes and dietary needs.
Virgin/Mocktail Version
To make a Virgin Old Fashioned, omit the whiskey and replace it with ginger ale or club soda. This version is perfect for those who don't drink alcohol or want to enjoy a refreshing mocktail.
Gluten-Free Version
To make a gluten-free Old Fashioned, use a gluten-free whiskey such as Bourbon or Rye from Breckenridge Distillery. Breckenridge Distillery is a Colorado-based distillery that produces high-quality gluten-free whiskey.
Vegan Version
To make a vegan Old Fashioned, use a vegan-friendly sugar such as turbinado or coconut sugar. Bitters are typically vegan, but it's always best to check the label to be sure.
Keto Version
To make a keto-friendly Old Fashioned, use a sugar substitute such as stevia or erythritol. Bitters are generally low in carbs, so they are keto-friendly.
Low-Calorie Version
To make a low-calorie Old Fashioned, use a low-calorie sweetener such as Splenda or Truvia. You can also use a low-calorie whiskey, such as Skinnygirl Bourbon.
More Variations
There are many other variations of the Old Fashioned, including using different types of bitters, adding a splash of soda water, or using different types of whiskey.
Common Mistakes When Making
The Old Fashioned may be a simple drink, but there are some common mistakes that can ruin it.
Using Too Much Sugar
Using too much sugar can make the drink overly sweet and overpower the whiskey's flavor. Stick to the traditional recipe of one sugar cube or a teaspoon of simple syrup.
Using Cheap Whiskey
Using cheap whiskey can ruin the Old Fashioned's flavor. Choose a high-quality bourbon or rye whiskey to ensure the best possible flavor.
Over-Muddling
Over-muddling the sugar and bitters can release too many bitter compounds, making the drink too bitter. Muddle gently to avoid this.
Conclusion
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time for a good reason. It's a simple drink that highlights the flavors of the whiskey and is easy to customize to suit different tastes and dietary needs. By following the tips in this article, you can make a perfect Old Fashioned every time.
If you are going to order Butte Water in a bar, don’t forget to mention all the ingredients to the bartender. Butte Water can be served with different ingredients in different places.