Are you a fan of classic cocktails with a modern twist? If you're looking to recreate the magic of an Old Fashioned at home, you've come to the right place. From the history of this iconic drink to the best kits available, Born to Shake has all the answers you need. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or a curious beginner, this guide will provide you with everything you need to know about Old Fashioned cocktails and how to make them at home.

What is an Old Fashioned Cocktail Kit?

Our Old Fashioned cocktail kit includes everything you need to make this timeless drink but the spirit! Our cocktail kits make it easy to craft and enjoy an expertly mixed cocktail in the comfort of your home, where you can impress your guests or simply indulge in a sophisticated drink whenever you like.

But that's just the beginning! We'll explore the history of the Old Fashioned, its variations, and highlight the two exceptional kits that we sell in-store and online (and serve up at our 889 Vaughan Ave. location). From the origins of this classic cocktail to the modern twists that have emerged over time, we'll cover it all. Keep reading to become an Old Fashioned cocktail connoisseur.

The History of the Old Fashioned Cocktail

A Timeless Classic

The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that dates back to the early 19th century. A simple yet elegant drink that has stood the test of time, the Old Fashioned was originally referred to as a "whiskey cocktail" as it consists of whiskey, sugar, water, and bitters. Over the years, bartenders and enthusiasts have experimented with different variations, adding new flavours and twists to the classic recipe.

In the 1800s, the Old Fashioned was a symbol of sophistication and elegance. It was often enjoyed in high-end establishments and became a favourite among the elite. As time went on, the cocktail evolved, and new variations emerged, reflecting the changing tastes and trends of the time.

Today, Old Fashioneds are available at any cocktail bar and increasing in popularity as an elevated spirit-forward cocktail. At Born to Shake, we serve both the classic and the unique variations of this elegant drink, complete with syrups and bitters that we manufacture and sell in-house. We supply everything you need to make one at home, from the essential ingredients to the proper glassware. Whether you prefer the classic version or a modern twist, there's a kit for you!

Variations of the Old Fashioned

Exploring Different Flavours

The Old Fashioned is versatile, and there are many ways to customize it to your taste. Here are some popular variations:

• Carrot Cake Old Fashioned: A unique twist that adds a hint of carrot cake flavour - AND uses gin! This cocktail is made for everyone, from the PSL lover to an Old Fashioned connoisseur. It comes with Carrot Cake syrup and Covfefe bitters, hand-made with fresh ingredients. We love it with our local favourite Okanagan Spirits Barrel-Aged Family Reserve Gin - aged for 6 months in white oak, this gin combines the flavours of juniper and the influences of oak, resulting in perfectly blended vanilla, floral, and citrus. This carrot cake-inspired cocktail creates a delightful experience that's perfect for special occasions or a cozy night in. Order it here.
• Whiskey Old Fashioned: The classic version that never goes out of style. Who doesn't love a good old fashioned? Make the best one you've had outside of your favorite bar with this kit. It includes Old Fashioned syrup and bitters in addition to our Shmok’n Choclate bitters, all crafted in-house at Born To Shake. This traditional version is perfect for those who appreciate the timeless elegance of a well-made cocktail. Get yours now.

What Makes Our Cocktail Kits Stand Out

• Ingredients: Born to Shake only uses high-quality ingredients to match your taste preferences. Whether you prefer a traditional brown sugar base or something spicy, the ingredients in our syrups and bitters are fresh and of top quality - match them with your favourite flavours, and you’re in for a real treat.
  
• Spirit Preferences: Traditionally, lighter spirits such as vodka and gin go along well with lighter flavours, such as fruit, floral, or citrus. Darker spirits such as whiskey or rum go nicely with deeper flavours including caramel or spice, but can also be used in tiki cocktails and sours. Consider your favourite flavors when shopping our cocktail kits. We also include instructions for our recommended spirits.
• Instructions: Clear and concise recipe cards will guide you through the process. Whether you're an expert bartender or you’re new to cocktails, easy-to-follow instructions make the experience smooth and enjoyable.
• Packaging: We consider the packaging and presentation of our cocktail kits as the wrapping of a gift. Whether you're giving a wedding, birthday, or anniversary present, or using it for a special occasion, our beautifully packaged kits add to the overall experience.

Essential Tools for Making an Old Fashioned

Equip Your Home Bar Like a Pro

Creating the perfect Old Fashioned requires not only the right ingredients but also the proper tools. Here's a selection of high-quality bar tools that can elevate your home bartending experience:

1. Japanese Jigger (1oz & 2oz): Available in various finishes like stainless steel, gunmetal black, and rose gold, a jigger helps you measure the ingredients accurately. Precise measurements are key to crafting a well-balanced and consistent cocktail. Find it here.
   
2. Julep Strainer: Perfect for stirred cocktails, a julep strainer like the Barfly Julep Strainer keeps ice and fruit from getting into your glass. It's available in stainless steel, black, and rose gold.
3. Hawthorne Strainer: A heavy-duty stainless steel Hawthorne strainer is easier to use for beginners than a julep strainer, and it ensures that you can pour your cocktail without any unwanted ice or fruit bits getting into the glass. Find it here.
4. Mixing Glass: For stirred cocktails like the Old Fashioned, a mixing glass such as the Hepburn Mixing Glass or the Greta Yarai Mixing Glass provides an elegant vessel for mixing your cocktail to the perfect icy temperature without diluting the spirit. Their large capacity is great for making multiple drinks at once.
5. Ice Mold: The Perfect Ice Mold creates fifteen 1.25" perfect ice cubes that melt slower, ensuring that when you stir your cocktail you are chilling it slowly without it diluting it too quickly. Get it here.
   
6. King Cube Ice Mold: When you’re ready to serve up your old fashioned, you want to ensure it stays as cold as possible without diluting any further. Use this 2” ice cube to experience your old fashioned or negroni in its perfect state without adding any other dilution. Get it here.
   
7. Champagne or Glass Ice Bucket: An elegant ice bucket like the Stainless Steel Champagne Bucket or Glass Ice Bucket holds the perfect ice you've made, adding a touch of sophistication to your home bar. Get it here.

These tools are handpicked from our shop, ensuring high quality and authenticity. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or just starting your home bar, these tools provide everything you need to stir up the perfect Old Fashioned cocktail.

Conclusion

Old Fashioned cocktails are a symbol of elegance and tradition. With a cocktail kit and the right tools, you can enjoy this classic drink at home. Whether you're a fan of the traditional whiskey version or looking for a unique twist like the Carrot Cake Old Fashioned, there's a kit for you. From the rich history of this iconic drink to the modern variations that have captured the hearts of many, the Old Fashioned continues to be a beloved cocktail that transcends time. Explore the world of cocktails and elevate your home bartending experience with Born To Shake. Happy mixing!