Few cocktails have stood the test of time quite like the Old Fashioned. It’s simple on paper - whisky, sugar, bitters, garnish - but packs enough personality to keep bartenders and drinkers experimenting, tweaking, and obsessing for generations. 

Now, we’re not saying we’ve reinvented it, but we have given it a proper Monkey Shoulder remix. In this guide, we’ll show you how to make a whisky Old Fashioned cocktail that stays true to the original but plays by our rules; smooth, bold, and made for mixing. Think: two top-notch recipes (the Lazy and the Smokey), a dash of history, a few wild variations, and enough garnish tips to make your citrus pee 

Whether you're a seasoned sipper or just Old Fashioned curious, you're in the right place. 

What is an Old Fashioned Cocktail 

The Old Fashioned cocktail is exactly what it sounds like; an old-school classic. No fluff, no umbrellas, no drama. Older than most traditions, and twice as smooth; this cocktail’s been charming palates since the 19th century. 

Traditionally, the base spirit is either bourbon or rye whiskey, both bring bold flavour and warmth. But tradition doesn’t mean you can’t stir things up. If you want a more modern, smoother twist, try using Scotch whisky, especially one made for mixing. Enter Monkey Shoulder: our  scotch whisky blend adds a richer, maltier character that gives the Old Fashioned a fresh edge without losing its timeless appeal. 

What Ingredients Go Into an Old Fashioned?  

Let’s break it down: 

• Sugar: The foundation of sweetness. Some stick to a traditional sugar cube muddled with bitters, but syrup (especially rich demerara) dissolves faster and adds a richer, caramel-like depth.  

• Bitters: Think of these as the spice rack of the cocktail world. Angostura is the go-to, but experimenting with chocolate, walnut, or cardamom bitters can take your drink somewhere new.  

• Garnish: An orange peel is the classic choice; it adds bright citrus oil and aroma. But a cherry brings a sweet, nostalgic note. No need to choose; try both.  

• Base Spirit: Bourbon gives the drink vanilla warmth, and rye adds spice and bite. But if you’re after something a little more unexpected; smoother, rounder, and undeniably versatile - Monkey Shoulder Scotch whisky delivers. Its blended malt character is made for mixing and gives the Old Fashioned a soft, malty complexity that bourbon just can’t match. 

The Old Fashioned Cocktail’s History & Origin 

The Old Fashioned dates back to the 1800’s first appearing in print around 1806. At that time, a "cocktail" was simply a spirit, sugar, water, and bitters. As the cocktail world evolved (and got increasingly complex), purists pushed back by asking bartenders for a drink made the “old-fashioned” way. And so, the name stuck. 

It’s been through Prohibition, countless reinterpretations, and even a Mad Men-fuelled resurgence, but the core of the drink has stayed intact: simplicity, balance, and flavour. Today, it's typically served in a short glass over one large cube of ice, and it's still the go-to choice for drinkers who appreciate a confident, unfussy classic. 

What Does An Old Fashioned Cocktail Taste Like? 

A properly made Old Fashioned is rich and balanced; slightly sweet, a little bitter, and warmly aromatic. The spirit is front and centre, but never harsh. The sugar softens the edges, the bitters add depth, and the citrus twist keeps it fresh. 

With bourbon, you get vanilla and caramel notes. With rye, there’s more peppery heat. With Monkey Shoulder, you get something altogether different - and arguably more interesting. Our  scotch whisky blend adds soft vanilla, toasted spice, and a warm maltiness that rounds out the drink without overpowering it. It’s Scotch, but approachable. Sophisticated, without taking itself too seriously. 

As bartenders often say, it’s less sharp than a rye version and has way more personality than your standard bourbon pour. 

Old Fashioned Cocktail Variations  

Monkey Shoulder brings two house favourites to the party: 

• Lazy Old Fashioned - Our batched serve is a fast-track to full flavour. No stress, no mess, just stir, sip and chill. Easy.   

• Smokey Old Fashioned - A bolder serve with a bit of drama. Great for fireside nights or when your playlist leans moody. 

How Do You Make The Perfect Old Fashioned Whisky Cocktail (With a Modern Scotch Twist) 

Here’s how to mix up our signature Monkey Shoulder takes on the Old Fashioned: 

• The Lazy Old Fashioned: A smooth shortcut with all the flavour, none of the fuss. Just stir, strain, and garnish. Full Lazy Old Fashioned recipe here.

• The Smokey Old Fashioned: Adds a little fire to the familiar. Great for cooler evenings, jazz records, and moments that need a bit of drama. Explore Smokey Old Fashioned here

Both drinks honour the tradition of the Old Fashioned while giving it a proper Monkey Shoulder spin; modern, bold, and made for mixing. 

Tips On How To Make The Best Old Fashioned Cocktail 

• Stir, Don’t Shake: It’s not a margarita. Stirring keeps the drink silky and smooth. 

• Use Big Ice: One large cube melts slower, dilutes less, and looks cooler. 

• Taste As You Go: Start small with the sugar and bitters, you can always add more.  

• Upgrade Your Garnish: Twist the orange peel over the drink to release those essential oils. 

Old Fashioned Cocktail Garnishes 

Let’s be honest, a garnish is where you can have some fun. Try these: 

• Orange peel: Classic. Zesty. Reliable.  

• Cherry: Adds sweetness and a nostalgic nod to the 1950s.  

• Lemon peel: Brighter and more floral.  

• Dried fig: As recommended by Thierry P. in Marseille - for a richer, Mediterranean vibe.  

• Candied ginger: Unexpected, spicy, and ideal with smoky variations. 

Old Fashioned Cocktail Food Pairings 

The Old Fashioned plays well with bold, savoury flavours. Try: 

• Charcuterie and hard cheeses (think aged cheddar or manchego)  

• Spicy roasted nuts  

• Grilled mushrooms or portobello burgers  

• Dark chocolate with sea salt  

• Sticky BBQ jackfruit sliders (yes, really  - trust us)    Its bittersweet profile cuts through richness and enhances umami, making it a surprisingly versatile dinner (or snack) companion. 

Make The Perfect Old Fashioned Cocktail With Monkey Shoulder 

Now that you know how to make some of the best whisky Old Fashioned cocktails, it’s time to stir one up for yourself. Whether you go classic, smoky, or lazy; make it with Monkey Shoulder and make it yours. 

Ready to level up your cocktail game? 

Discover our full recipe collection here