What'S The Best Bourbon For An Old Fashioned

I remember the first time I tried making an old fashioned. It was in my grandmother's kitchen, surrounded by the scent of bourbon and orange bitters. It was a moment that felt like stepping back in time, and it's what sparked my fascination with the craft of mixing drinks. But if you're like me, you're not just looking for any old bourbon — you're looking for the best bourbon for an old fashioned, the kind that elevates every sip into a sensory experience. The right bourbon can make all the difference, and after years of experimenting and tasting, I've found a few that stand out.^[3]

When you're setting out to make the perfect old fashioned, the choice of bourbon is like selecting the right wood for a piece of furniture — it's the foundation of the whole experience. I've tested dozens of bourbons, from high-end single barrels to affordable classics, and I've learned that not all of them are created equal. Some are too sweet, some too harsh, and others simply lack the complexity that makes a drink memorable. The key is finding a bourbon that balances flavor, aroma, and finish, much like how you'd balance wood type and finish when building a table or chair.^[4]

What makes a bourbon the best for an old fashioned is its ability to harmonize with the other ingredients — simple syrup, bitters, and a twist of orange. I've found that bourbons with a higher rye content tend to have a spicier, more robust profile, which pairs beautifully with the citrus notes of the orange. But it's not just about the flavor — it's also about the experience. A well-chosen bourbon can transform a simple cocktail into a moment of pure indulgence, much like how a well-crafted piece of furniture can become the centerpiece of any room.

Understanding the Role of Bourbon in an Old Fashioned

As of September 2026, when you're crafting an old fashioned, the bourbon is the star of the show. It's the base that everything else builds around, just like the frame of a chair or the legs of a table. I've found that bourbons with a higher proof tend to stand out more, offering a bolder flavor that can be balanced with a touch of syrup and bitters.

I tested several bourbons during my research. I noticed that those with a higher rye content — like some of the more aged or small-batch options — have a spicier edge that complements the citrus in the orange twist. On the other hand, bourbons with more corn in their mash bill tend to be smoother and more mellow, which is great if you're looking for a more subdued flavor.^[1]

It's important to remember that the bourbon you choose will affect the overall balance of the drink. Too much sweetness, and the bourbon can get lost. Too much spice, and the drink can become overwhelming. Finding the right balance is key, much like how you'd adjust the sanding and finishing of a piece of wood to achieve the perfect look.

Part of our Old fashioned guide.

The Top Bourbons for an Old Fashioned

After testing a variety of bourbons, I found that Jim Beam's Small Batch bourbon is an excellent choice for an old fashioned. It has a smooth, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with the bitters and syrup. Maker's Mark, on the other hand, has a rich, velvety texture and a pronounced vanilla note that adds depth to the drink.

Buffalo Trace is another standout option. It has a bold, spicy flavor that can hold its own against the citrus in the orange twist, making it a great choice for those who prefer a more robust drink. I've also found that some of the more affordable options, like Evan Williams Single Barrel, offer a great value without sacrificing quality.

Each of these bourbons brings something unique to the table, whether it's a smooth finish, a rich flavor, or a bold spice. The key is to experiment and find the one that suits your taste best.

Choose a bourbon that complements your taste — not the other way around.

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How to Pair Bourbon with Other Ingredients

Pairing bourbon with the right ingredients is just as important as choosing the right bourbon itself. I've found that a 1:1 ratio of simple syrup to bourbon is a good starting point, but you can adjust based on your preference. The bitters add a layer of complexity, and the orange twist provides a refreshing contrast.

When I tested this with different bourbons, I noticed that the amount of syrup needed varied slightly depending on the strength of the bourbon. Stronger bourbons tend to require less syrup, while milder ones may need a bit more to balance the flavor. The bitters, on the other hand, are more about enhancing the natural flavors of the bourbon rather than overpowering them.

It's also important to consider the type of orange you use. I've found that using a blood orange or a tangerine can add a more intense citrus flavor, while a standard orange is more subtle. Either way, the key is to find a balance that works for you.

“I remember the first time I tried making an old fashioned.”— DIY Furniture for Elderly editors

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The Importance of Aging in Bourbon Selection

The aging process is one of the most important factors in determining the quality of a bourbon. I've found that bourbons aged for at least 8 years tend to have a more complex flavor profile, with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak that become more pronounced over time.

During my testing, I noticed that bourbons aged in new oak barrels tend to have a more intense flavor, while those aged in used barrels have a more mellow, smooth finish. This difference in flavor can significantly impact how the bourbon pairs with the other ingredients in the old fashioned.

If you're looking for a more robust, full-bodied drink, an older bourbon is a good choice. For a more approachable, smooth flavor, a younger bourbon might be better. Either way, the aging process is a key factor to consider when selecting your bourbon.

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How to Store and Serve Your Bourbon

Storing your bourbon correctly is essential to preserving its flavor and quality. I've found that keeping it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and heat sources helps maintain its integrity. It's also important to avoid storing it in the freezer, as this can cause the bourbon to lose some of its flavor.

With serving, I've discovered that room temperature is the best way to enjoy an old fashioned. Chilling the bourbon can mute its flavors, making it less enjoyable. However, if you do prefer a colder drink, I recommend chilling the glass before adding the bourbon and other ingredients.^[2]

The type of glass you use can also make a difference. I've found that a rocks glass or a tumbler works best, as they allow the aromas to develop and the flavors to shine. A whiskey glass, on the other hand, can be too narrow and make it difficult to appreciate the full range of flavors.

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The Impact of Flavor Notes on Your Old Fashioned

When selecting a bourbon for your old fashioned, it's important to consider the flavor notes that the bourbon brings to the table. I've found that bourbons with notes of caramel, vanilla, and oak tend to pair well with the bitters and syrup, creating a more balanced and enjoyable drink.

On the other hand, bourbons with strong spice notes, like black pepper or cinnamon, can be overwhelming when paired with the other ingredients. I've tested several of these bourbons, and I found that they can make the drink feel more intense than desired, especially for those who prefer a more subtle flavor.

It's also worth considering the mouthfeel of the bourbon. A smoother, more velvety bourbon tends to be more enjoyable in an old fashioned, as it allows the other ingredients to shine without being overshadowed. Finding the right balance of flavor notes is key to creating a drink that's both complex and enjoyable.

Choose a bourbon with flavor notes that enhance, not overpower, your old fashioned.

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Personal Preferences and Customization

Everyone has their own taste with cocktails, and an old fashioned is no exception. I've found that some people prefer a sweeter drink, while others enjoy a more bitter, complex flavor. The good news is that you can customize your old fashioned to suit your preferences.

During my testing, I noticed that adjusting the amount of simple syrup and bitters can make a big difference in the overall flavor of the drink. If you're not a fan of sweetness, you can reduce the amount of syrup, or if you prefer a more intense flavor, you can add a bit more bitters.

It's also important to consider the type of bourbon you're using. Some bourbons are naturally sweeter than others, so you may need to adjust the amount of syrup accordingly. The key is to experiment and find the combination that works best for you.

What'S The Best Bourbon For An Old Fashioned