📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Grappa
Alcohol 25%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 15g
Prep time 5 minutes
Dreaming of the perfect Italian Old Fashioned? This delightful cocktail is a fresh twist on a classic, combining the warmth of bourbon with the sweet, herbal notes of amaro. We’ll explore its history, taste, ingredients, and even some fun facts. Ready to dive in? ⬇️
History
The Italian Old Fashioned originated in Italy, inspired by the traditional American Old Fashioned. It was created to incorporate Italian flavors, using amaro instead of bitters. This cocktail has become a symbol of the fusion between American and Italian cocktail cultures.
- The name “Italian Old Fashioned” comes from the use of Italian amaro.
- Amaro is a traditional Italian herbal liqueur.
- This cocktail gained popularity in Italian-American communities.
The taste of a Italian Old Fashioned?
An Italian Old Fashioned tastes sweet and slightly bitter, with herbal undertones from the amaro. It’s a sophisticated blend that balances the warmth of bourbon with the complexity of Italian flavors.
I personally love drinking Italian Old Fashioneds because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Italian Old Fashioned
- It combines the best of American and Italian cocktail traditions.
- Amaro, the key ingredient, has been used in Italy for centuries.
- It’s a popular choice in upscale bars and restaurants.
Ingredients 📃
- Bourbon: 2 oz (60ml)
- Amaro: 0.5 oz (15ml)
- Simple Syrup: 0.25 oz (7.5ml)
- Orange Bitters: 2 dashes
- Orange Twist: For garnish
A Italian Old Fashioned is best served in a **rocks glass** because it allows the flavors to meld perfectly while keeping the drink cool. An alternative could be a **tumbler**.
Recipe. How to make Italian Old Fashioned 🍹
- Add *2 oz (60ml) bourbon* to a mixing glass.
- Add *0.5 oz (15ml) amaro* and *0.25 oz (7.5ml) simple syrup*.
- Drop in *2 dashes of orange bitters*.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
- Strain the mixture into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish with an *orange twist*.
Italian Old Fashioneds have a moderate calorie count due to the bourbon and simple syrup. For a healthier version, you can use natural sweeteners like agave syrup and opt for low-calorie amaro.
Food Pairings
Pairing certain foods with a Italian Old Fashioned can elevate the drinking experience.
Charcuterie
The savory and salty flavors of charcuterie complement the sweet and bitter notes of an Italian Old Fashioned.
Dark Chocolate
The richness of dark chocolate enhances the herbal and citrus flavors in the cocktail.
Grilled Meats
The smoky, robust flavors of grilled meats pair well with the depth of bourbon and amaro.
I really enjoy the taste of Italian Old Fashioneds—the cool mint and zesty lime make it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- *Use quality bourbon* to ensure a smooth and flavorful base.
- *Measure your ingredients* precisely for a balanced cocktail.
- *Stir, don’t shake* to keep the drink clear and well-mixed.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Italian Old Fashioned, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Italian Old Fashioned
- Amaro: Can be switched with another type of herbal liqueur for a different flavor.
- Simple Syrup: Can be replaced with honey or agave syrup for a unique sweetness.
- Orange Bitters: Can be substituted with another type of bitters like Angostura.
Italian Old Fashioned Variations
Negroni Old Fashioned
- Ingredients: Gin, Campari, Sweet Vermouth
- Recipe: Mix equal parts gin, Campari, and sweet vermouth, stir with ice, and strain into a rocks glass.
Amaro Spritz
- Ingredients: Amaro, Prosecco, Soda Water
- Recipe: Combine amaro and prosecco in a glass, top with soda water, and garnish with an orange slice.
Italian Manhattan
- Ingredients: Rye Whiskey, Amaro, Sweet Vermouth
- Recipe: Stir rye whiskey, amaro, and sweet vermouth with ice, strain into a chilled glass, and garnish with a cherry.
For a non-alcoholic version, mix *2 oz (60ml) non-alcoholic bourbon*, *0.5 oz (15ml) non-alcoholic amaro*, and *0.25 oz (7.5ml) simple syrup*. Stir with ice, strain into a glass, and garnish with an orange twist.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Italian Old Fashioned?
An Italian Old Fashioned is a cocktail that combines bourbon, amaro, simple syrup, and orange bitters.
Can I use a different type of whiskey?
Yes, you can use rye whiskey or even a smoky scotch for a different flavor profile.
What is amaro?
Amaro is an Italian herbal liqueur known for its bittersweet flavor.
How do I make it less sweet?
Reduce the amount of simple syrup or use a less sweet amaro.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes, you can use non-alcoholic bourbon and amaro to make a virgin version.
What foods pair well with an Italian Old Fashioned?
Charcuterie, dark chocolate, and grilled meats are great pairings.
Enjoy crafting your perfect Italian Old Fashioned and exploring all the delightful variations! Cheers!
