Blood Orange Old Fashioned

A Blood Orange Old-Fashioned is a vibrant twist on the classic whiskey cocktail, featuring the rich, citrusy sweetness of blood orange alongside the traditional elements of bourbon, bitters, and a hint of sugar. The blood orange adds a refreshing depth with its tart yet subtly sweet flavor, balancing the bold warmth of the whiskey.

This cocktail pairs beautifully with savory dishes like grilled lamb, charcuterie boards featuring aged cheeses and cured meats, or Mediterranean-inspired fare such as olives and roasted nuts. For a sweet pairing, dark chocolate or spiced desserts like baklava complement its citrusy undertones perfectly.

Blood-Orange-Old-Fashioned

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Minutes to make 5 minutes mins

Servings: 1 serving

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Orange slice

Dash of orange bitters

1 oz blood orange soda

1 maraschino cherry

2 oz rye whiskey

Method

 

1. Muddle orange slice, bitters, soda, and cherry in an old-fashioned glass.
2. Add whiskey and ice; stir to blend.

Notes

Other Preparation Methods

 

Make it sweeter.
Add 1 teaspoon superfine sugar during muddling and substitute honey whiskey for the rye.

 

Make it classic.
Substitute original bitters for the orange bitters, club soda for the blood orange soda, and bourbon for the rye to make a classic old fashioned cocktail

HISTORY

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. Its origins trace to the early 1800s when the term “cocktail” referred to a simple mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. By the 1860s, bartenders began experimenting with additional ingredients, prompting purists to request a return to the “old-fashioned” way of making the drink. The name stuck, and the classic bourbon or rye whiskey cocktail, typically garnished with an orange peel and cherry, became a staple. Today, the Old Fashioned remains a timeless favorite, evolving with creative variations like the Blood Orange Old Fashioned.

The Old Fashioned in Movies: Iconic On-Screen Appearances

The Old Fashioned cocktail has been a symbol of sophistication and timeless style for over a century. It has made notable appearances in popular movies and TV shows, reinforcing its status as a classic drink choice. Here are a few famous examples where the Old Fashioned took center stage on the silver screen.

1. Mad Men (2007–2015)

The Old Fashioned is the signature drink of Don Draper, the enigmatic advertising executive. Set in the 1960s, the show’s portrayal of Draper frequently sipping on this cocktail contributed to a resurgence of its popularity in modern times.

2. Crazy, Stupid, Love (2011)

Ryan Gosling’s character, Jacob Palmer, showcases the art of making an Old Fashioned, emphasizing its timeless elegance and appeal. This scene introduced the drink to a new generation of cocktail lovers.

3. It’s a Mad, Mad, Mad, Mad World (1963)

This classic comedy includes a humorous scene where a character attempts to prepare an Old Fashioned mid-flight, resulting in comedic chaos and further cementing the drink’s place in pop culture.

From classic films to modern TV shows, the Old Fashioned continues to shine as a symbol of refinement and good taste. Whether you’re watching Don Draper strategize or Jacob Palmer charm, this cocktail remains a timeless choice for any occasion.

Have you spotted the Old Fashioned in any other movies? Let us know in the comments!

AJ Marchetta

AJ is a seasoned professional in the wine and spirits industry with years of experience in promotions and brand awareness. Having worked with major brands such as Brown-Forman, Southern Wine & Spirits, and more, AJ brings a wealth of knowledge in marketing and campaign strategies that elevate brands and engage consumers. With a passion for the art and science of fine beverages, AJ enjoys sharing insights and expertise to help others discover and appreciate the world of wine and spirits.

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