If you’re looking for the best bourbon to use in an Old Fashioned cocktail, you’ve come to the right pace.
Knowing the best bourbon to use in an Old Fashioned is crucially important. In the world of bourbon, nuanced flavors come together for the insanely popular cocktail we all know as the Old-Fashioned. It’s a staple in bars across the globe, and the right bourbon can make or break this classic cocktail.
Creating the perfect Old-Fashioned begins with the right ingredients, and at the heart of it all is bourbon. It’s a staple in every bartender’s toolkit, bringing rich, bold flavor profiles to the table. However, it’s crucial to remember that not all bourbons are created equal. If you’re looking for the best Old Fashioned recipe, we have you covered: The Perfect Old Fashioned.
The Best Bourbon Brands To Use In An Old Fashioned Cocktail:
- Bulleit Bourbon
- Knob Creek
- Woodford Reserve
- Maker’s Mark
- Buffalo Trace
Tasting & Notes:
- Bulleit Bourbon: First on our list represents the modern edge of bourbon with its high-rye content and oak barrel aging. The robust flavor, with hints of vanilla and honey, makes this an excellent choice for an Old-Fashioned.
- Knob Creek: This small batch bourbon packs a punch of flavors that holds its own in an Old-Fashioned. The high-proof gives it a strong and robust taste, followed by a long, warm finish which is just what you need in a crisp cocktail.
- Woodford Reserve: Known for its complex flavors with hints of dried fruit, vanilla, and tobacco spice, Woodford Reserve adds depth and sophistication to the Old-Fashioned.
- Maker’s Mark: This bourbon is a crowd-pleaser with its smooth and rich taste. It’s complemented by flavors of vanilla and nut, which adds a tangible sweetness to the cocktail, making it an easy sip.
- Buffalo Trace: This reasonably priced bourbon brings together notes of molasses, vanilla, and mint. It’s a full-bodied flavor which strikes a balance, making it perfect for the Old-Fashioned.
Bourbon Dose’s Take:
In truth, the best bourbon for an Old-Fashioned largely depends on personal preference. But if you ask me, I lean towards Buffalo Trace. It creates a cocktail that is complex and layered with multiple flavor nuances. It brings to the table a balance between rich, full-bodied flavor and smoothness. It also packs the perfect punch, and make a great pairing with Luxardo Cherries or an afterhit of smoke from a Bourbon Smoker.
But don’t get me wrong, playing around with different bourbons is half the fun, and I fully encourage it!
In ending, finding the perfect bourbon for your Old-Fashioned is an adventure in itself – a delicious journey that could enlighten your taste buds and broaden your knowledge on bourbons. As you explore, remember that the best Old-Fashioned is the one you enjoy the most, and that’s the Old-Fashioned made with your preferred bourbon.





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