The Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned Cocktail is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century. It is a simple cocktail that consists of only a few ingredients, but it is a cocktail that is loved by many. The cocktail is made with Buffalo Trace Bourbon, sugar, and bitters. The drink is garnished with a cherry and an orange slice.

To make a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned cocktail, one needs to choose the right bourbon. Buffalo Trace Bourbon is the preferred bourbon for this cocktail. The bourbon is aged for at least eight years, which gives it a smooth and rich flavor. The sugar is then mixed with bitters and added to the bourbon. The mixture is stirred until the sugar is dissolved. The cocktail is then garnished with a cherry and an orange slice.

History of Buffalo Trace Bourbon

Buffalo Trace Distillery is one of the oldest distilleries in the United States, with a history that dates back to 1773. Located in Frankfort, Kentucky, the distillery has been producing bourbon for over 200 years.

The distillery was originally known as the Old Fire Copper (O.F.C.) Distillery and was established by Hancock Lee, a pioneer in the bourbon industry. The distillery was later sold to George T. Stagg, who renamed it the George T. Stagg Distillery. In 1870, the distillery was purchased by E.H. Taylor Jr., who renamed it the O.F.C. Distillery once again.

In 1886, the distillery was purchased by Edmund H. Taylor Jr., who renamed it the George T. Stagg Distillery. Taylor was a pioneer in the bourbon industry, and he is credited with introducing many innovations that are still used today. He was one of the first distillers to use climate-controlled warehouses to age his bourbon, and he was also one of the first to use a sour mash process.

During Prohibition, the distillery was forced to shut down, but it was reopened in 1933 by the Blanton family. The distillery was renamed the Ancient Age Distillery, and it continued to produce bourbon under that name until 1984, when it was renamed the Buffalo Trace Distillery.

Today, Buffalo Trace is one of the most respected bourbon brands in the world, and its products have won numerous awards for their quality and taste. The distillery produces a wide range of bourbons, including Buffalo Trace, Eagle Rare, Blanton’s, and Pappy Van Winkle.

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Ingredients Needed

To make a classic Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 oz Buffalo Trace bourbon
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• 1 sugar cube
• Orange peel (garnish)

It is important to choose high-quality ingredients to ensure the best taste. Buffalo Trace Bourbon is an excellent choice for this cocktail, as it has a smooth and balanced flavor profile that pairs well with the other ingredients.

For the sugar cube, it is recommended to use raw or demerara sugar for a richer flavor. However, white granulated sugar can also be used in a pinch.

Angostura bitters are a key ingredient in an Old Fashioned, providing a complex and aromatic flavor. Other types of bitters, such as orange or cherry bitters, can also be used to add a unique twist to the cocktail.

Finally, an orange peel garnish adds a bright and citrusy aroma to the drink. It is recommended to use a vegetable peeler to create a long, thin strip of orange peel for the garnish.

Equipment Required

Making a perfect Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned requires some essential equipment that any home bartender should have on hand. Here are the necessary tools and equipment required to make the perfect Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned cocktail:

Mixing Glass

A mixing glass is an essential tool for preparing the perfect Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned. A mixing glass is a large, heavy-bottomed glass that is used to mix and stir the ingredients of a cocktail. It is essential for creating a well-mixed cocktail that is perfectly chilled and balanced.

Bar Spoon

A bar spoon is a long-handled spoon that is used for stirring cocktails in a mixing glass. It is an essential tool for creating a perfectly mixed cocktail. A good-quality bar spoon should be long enough to reach the bottom of the mixing glass and have a twisted handle that makes it easy to grip and stir.

Jigger

A jigger is a measuring tool that is used to measure the ingredients of a cocktail accurately. It is essential for creating a well-balanced cocktail that tastes just right. A good-quality jigger should have two sides, one for measuring a single shot and the other for measuring a double shot.

Strainer

A strainer is a tool that is used to strain the cocktail into a glass, removing any ice or fruit pulp that may have been used in the mixing process. It is essential for creating a well-strained cocktail that is free from any unwanted bits.

Rocks Glass

A rocks glass is a short, wide glass that is used for serving cocktails that are served over ice. It is an essential piece of glassware for serving the perfect Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned.

Step by Step Preparation

Making a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned is a simple process that requires a few basic ingredients and a little bit of patience. Here are the steps to follow to make a perfect Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned:

1. Gather the ingredients: To make a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned, you will need 2 oz of Buffalo Trace bourbon, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, 1 sugar cube, and an orange peel for garnish.
2. Muddle the sugar and bitters: In a mixing glass, muddle the sugar cube with the Angostura bitters until the sugar is dissolved. This step is important because it helps to release the flavors and aromas of the bitters.
3. Add ice and bourbon: Once the sugar is dissolved, add ice to the mixing glass and pour in the 2 oz of Buffalo Trace bourbon. Stir the mixture well until it is chilled.
4. Strain and serve: Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with fresh ice. Garnish with an orange peel and serve.

It is important to note that the quality of the ingredients used will greatly affect the taste of the final product. It is recommended to use high-quality, fresh ingredients to ensure the best possible flavor.

Additionally, some variations of the Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned recipe may call for different types of bitters, such as cherry bitters or chocolate bitters. Experimenting with different bitters can be a fun way to add new flavors and aromas to the classic cocktail.

Variations of Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned

1. Maple Syrup Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned

For those who prefer a sweeter taste, maple syrup is an excellent substitute for sugar. To make this variation, mix 2 oz of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, 1 tsp of maple syrup, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and a splash of water in a glass. Add ice and stir. Garnish with an orange peel.

2. Cherry Bourbon Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned

This variation adds a fruity twist to the classic recipe. Muddle 2 cherries and 1 tsp of sugar in a glass. Add 2 oz of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and ice. Stir and garnish with a cherry and an orange peel.

3. Spiced Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned

For those who like a bit of spice, this variation is perfect. Mix 2 oz of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, 1 tsp of honey, 2 dashes of orange bitters, and a pinch of cayenne pepper in a glass. Add ice and stir. Garnish with a cinnamon stick.

4. Smoky Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned

This variation adds a smoky flavor to the classic recipe. Mix 2 oz of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, 1 tsp of honey, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and a splash of Laphroaig scotch in a glass. Add ice and stir. Garnish with an orange peel.

5. Grapefruit Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned

This variation adds a citrusy twist to the classic recipe. Mix 2 oz of Buffalo Trace Bourbon, 1 tsp of honey, 2 dashes of grapefruit bitters, and a splash of grapefruit juice in a glass. Add ice and stir. Garnish with a grapefruit peel.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some different Old Fashioned recipes?

There are many variations of the Old Fashioned recipe, but the classic recipe includes sugar, bitters, and whiskey. Some variations include adding fruit, such as orange or cherry, or using different types of bitters. Some recipes call for using rye whiskey instead of bourbon.

What are the best bitters to use in an Old Fashioned?

Angostura bitters are the most commonly used bitters in an Old Fashioned, but other bitters, such as orange or Peychaud’s bitters, can also be used. The choice of bitters can affect the flavor profile of the cocktail, so it’s best to experiment and find the bitters that work best for your taste.

What is the best way to mix Buffalo Trace in an Old Fashioned?

To make a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned, start by muddling a sugar cube with a few dashes of bitters in a rocks glass. Add ice and 2 oz. of Buffalo Trace Bourbon. Stir until well combined. Garnish with an orange peel or cherry, if desired.

Can Buffalo Trace be used in a smoked Old Fashioned?

Yes, Buffalo Trace can be used in a smoked Old Fashioned. To make a smoked Old Fashioned, smoke the glass with a smoking gun or use a smoking box. Then follow the classic Old Fashioned recipe, substituting Buffalo Trace for the whiskey.

Is Buffalo Trace a good bourbon for mixing?

Yes, Buffalo Trace is a great bourbon for mixing. Its unique combination of flavors, including mint, vanilla, toffee, dark fruit, anise, and molasses, complement the sugar and bitters in an Old Fashioned well.

Are there any Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned kits available?

Yes, there are Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned kits available for purchase. These kits typically include a bottle of Buffalo Trace bourbon, bitters, and sugar cubes, making it easy to mix up a classic Old Fashioned at home.

Conclusion

The Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around for decades. It is a simple yet sophisticated drink that is perfect for any occasion. In this article, we have discussed the best recipe for making a Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned.

The recipe calls for only a few ingredients, including Buffalo Trace bourbon, Angostura bitters, sugar, and an orange peel. The key to making a perfect Old Fashioned is to use high-quality ingredients and to follow the recipe carefully.

Buffalo Trace Bourbon is the perfect bourbon for making an Old Fashioned. It has a smooth and rich flavor that pairs perfectly with the bitters and sugar. The orange peel adds a citrusy twist to the drink, making it even more refreshing and delicious.

The Buffalo Trace Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you are hosting a party or just enjoying a quiet evening at home, this cocktail is sure to impress. So grab a bottle of Buffalo Trace Bourbon and start making your own Old Fashioned today!

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