At The Loch & Quay, we take great pride in our dedication to the craft of fine dining and upscale hospitality. As the seasons change, we delight in presenting our guests with thoughtfully curated menus that showcase the bounty of our local culinary traditions. One such timeless classic that we’ve elevated with a seasonal twist is the beloved Old Fashioned cocktail.
The Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Old Fashioned is a time-honored libation that has graced the menus of discerning establishments for generations. This iconic cocktail is a study in simplicity, with its core ingredients of bourbon or rye whiskey, bitters, and a sweetener (often sugar or simple syrup) playing harmonious roles. The Old Fashioned is traditionally served over a large ice cube in a rocks glass, with a garnish of an orange slice and maraschino cherry to lend a touch of elegance.
When crafting the perfect Old Fashioned, the quality of the spirit is paramount. We proudly feature a carefully curated selection of premium bourbons and ryes, each offering its own unique flavor profile to complement the cocktail. A popular choice amongst our guests is the smooth, slightly sweet Four Roses Single Barrel, which provides a solid foundation for the drink. For those seeking a bolder, spicier experience, we also recommend our Bulleit Rye Old Fashioned, which showcases the robust character of this whiskey varietal.
Seasonal Variations on the Old Fashioned
While the classic Old Fashioned is a timeless delight, we believe in embracing the rhythms of the seasons and incorporating innovative ingredients and flavors to keep our menus fresh and exciting. Our talented bartenders have crafted a series of seasonal twists on this beloved cocktail, each one capturing the essence of the moment.
Fall Old Fashioneds
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, we welcome the arrival of autumn with a lineup of Old Fashioneds that celebrate the bounty of the harvest. Our Maple Old Fashioned features a maple syrup sweetener, which lends a warm, comforting note to the drink, while a sprinkle of ground cinnamon and a cinnamon stick garnish evoke the cozy spices of the season. For a more citrusy take, our Cranberry Old Fashioned incorporates a homemade cranberry simple syrup, complemented by a zesty orange peel twist.
Winter Old Fashioneds
When the winter winds blow and the snow begins to fall, we turn to heartier ingredients to create Old Fashioneds that are perfect for sipping by the fire. Our Holiday Bitters Old Fashioned features a custom-blended bitters infusion with notes of cinnamon, clove, and nutmeg, lending a warm, festive character to the drink. For an extra layer of richness, we’ve also experimented with a Walnut-Infused Bourbon Old Fashioned, where the nutty, toasted flavors of the spirit provide a delightful counterpoint to the classic sweetness.
Spring and Summer Old Fashioneds
As the days grow longer and the temperatures rise, we embrace the vibrant flavors of spring and summer with our seasonal Old Fashioned interpretations. Our Strawberry Basil Old Fashioned highlights the fresh, herbal notes of basil harmonizing with the sweet, juicy strawberries in a homemade simple syrup. For a more floral twist, our Lavender Old Fashioned combines a lavender-infused simple syrup with a touch of lemon for a delicate, aromatic sip.
The Evolution of the Old Fashioned
The origins of the Old Fashioned can be traced back to the early 19th century, when the cocktail first gained popularity as a means of showcasing the unique flavors of American whiskeys. Over the decades, this classic libation has endured and evolved, becoming a beloved staple in the world of fine dining and upscale hospitality.
While the core formula of the Old Fashioned has remained relatively consistent, with the spirit, bitters, and sweetener as the central components, the specific ingredients and proportions have seen various interpretations. The Bourbon Old Fashioned, for instance, has long been a favorite, celebrating the rich, caramelized notes of Kentucky’s finest bourbon whiskies. The Rye Old Fashioned, on the other hand, highlights the spicy, herbaceous character of rye-based spirits, offering a bolder, more assertive flavor profile.
In recent years, the Old Fashioned has experienced a remarkable resurgence in popularity, with bartenders and enthusiasts alike exploring new and innovative ways to reinvent this timeless classic. From the introduction of artisanal bitters to the incorporation of seasonal produce and botanical infusions, the Old Fashioned has proven to be a remarkably versatile canvas upon which to showcase one’s creativity and culinary prowess.
Mastering the Art of the Old Fashioned
Crafting the perfect Old Fashioned requires a keen understanding of balancing flavors and a mastery of the fundamental techniques. At The Loch & Quay, our bartenders are true artisans, meticulously selecting the spirits, sweeteners, and aromatic additions to create a harmonious and well-rounded experience.
Balancing Flavors
The key to a successful Old Fashioned lies in the careful balance of its core components. The choice of spirit is crucial, as it provides the foundation for the drink. We carefully consider factors such as the proof, oak influence, and flavor intensity when selecting our preferred bourbons and ryes. The sweetener, whether it be simple syrup, honey, or even maple, plays a vital role in tempering the strength of the spirit and providing a smooth, velvety mouthfeel.
The addition of bitters is where the real magic happens. These aromatic tinctures act as the seasoning, adding complexity and depth to the cocktail. Our bartenders experiment with a range of bitters, from the classic Angostura to more specialized blends featuring notes of citrus, spice, or even coffee, to find the perfect balance for each seasonal interpretation.
Proper Mixing and Serving
Technique is paramount when it comes to crafting the perfect Old Fashioned. Our bartenders begin by muddling a combination of the sweetener and bitters in the bottom of a mixing glass, gently releasing the essential oils and aromatic compounds. They then add the spirit of choice, fill the glass with large ice cubes, and carefully stir the cocktail until it’s well-chilled and properly diluted.
The final touch is the garnish, which not only enhances the visual appeal of the drink but also contributes to the overall sensory experience. We take great care in selecting the perfect garnish, whether it’s a simple orange peel or a more elaborate cherry, cinnamon stick, or even a dehydrated citrus slice.
Celebrating Seasonal Ingredients and Flavors
At The Loch & Quay, we are committed to celebrating the bounty of our local culinary traditions and embracing the rhythms of the seasons. This ethos extends beyond our food menu and into our bar program, where our talented bartenders continuously seek to push the boundaries of the classic Old Fashioned.
By incorporating seasonal produce, freshly made syrups, and unique infusions, we are able to create Old Fashioned interpretations that capture the essence of each time of year. Whether it’s the warm, comforting spices of autumn, the festive botanicals of winter, or the vibrant, herbaceous notes of spring and summer, our cocktails are designed to delight the senses and transport our guests on a journey through the changing seasons.
As we welcome guests to The Loch & Quay, we invite them to embark on a celebration of the art of the Old Fashioned. From the classic renditions to the innovative seasonal twists, each cocktail is a testament to our commitment to quality, creativity, and the pursuit of the perfect balance of flavors. We hope that our guests will savor these delightful libations and leave with a newfound appreciation for the timeless charm of this iconic cocktail.