Old Fashioned Riffs

There are few whiskey cocktails as iconic as the classic Old Fashioned. A simple mix of whiskey, sugar and bitters, the drink continues to be one of the most popular cocktails in the world. And it has inspired myriad variations along the way. Here are a few of our favorite modern Old Fashioned riffs categorized by spirit.

Agave Spirits

Fisher’s Old FashionedA serious mezcal-based sipper that’s simple to make.

Oaxaca Old FashionedA Mexican-accented riff, created by Phil Ward.

Presidio Old FashionedA split base of sotol and whiskey take this riff to the next level.

Brandy

Call Me Old Fashioned An Italian amaro adds a shade of spice to this twist.

Cognac Old FashionedA classic riff that highlights the lighter, brighter side of Cognac.

Normandy Old Fashioned French and American apple brandies build a strong foundation for this elegant cocktail.

Rum

Bear the Palm Two types of rum meet bourbon in this modern variation.

First-Time Caller With hints of chocolate and banana layered against a rich, flavorful Jamaican rum, this cocktail drinks like a nightcap that took a tropical holiday vacation.

I’m Old FashionedA tropical take with pineapple rum and Punt e Mes.

Quick Wit Old Fashioned This extra-rich take on the classic features a split base of aged rum and Tennessee whiskey.

Whiskey

Albino Old FashionedThis aptly named riff features white whiskey and white grapefruit.

Artichoke HoldMaraschino liqueur sweetens a blend of bourbon, Cynar, and bitters.

Apres Ski This variation with pecan-infused bourbon is all about comfort.

Bar Mash Old FashionedHopped grapefruit bitters add a new dimension to this recipe from Bar Mash in Charleston.

Black Hole SunThis spin wakes the whiskey up with a dose of cold-brew coffee.

Chai ThisFor her Old Fashioned riff, bartender Jessica Stewart incorporates a brown sugar-chai syrup in the recipe.

Cherry Circle Room Old Fashioned Sherry and maple add a warming update to the classic.

Kentucky RiverWith notes of peach and chocolate, this drink remains a crowd favorite at Las Vegas bar Rosina.

Normandie Old FashionedCoconut bourbon, apple brandy, and spiced almond syrup make for a memorable variation.

Optimist Old Fashioned A delicious mashup of two bold whiskey drinks.

Pop Quiz This Old Fashioned variation boasts cola notes and spice.

Rye and Pine Old FashionedHomemade pine syrup creates a bouquet of big, wintery aromatics.

Superflat Fashion This cocktail combines Japanese whisky and American whiskey with a traditional Japanese tea and walnut bitters.

Walnut Old FashionedThis smooth sipper features a warming walnut liqueur.