Brown Sugar Peach Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. This Old Fashioned, typically made with whiskey or bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, is beloved for its simplicity and versatility. Let’s explore the history of the Old Fashioned, the difference between bourbon and whiskey, and how to make a delicious Brown Sugar Peach Old Fashioned using homemade brown sugar peach syrup. Plus, I will explain why using clear ice in your Old Fashioned can elevate your cocktail experience.

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History of the Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. The drink was originally referred to as a “whiskey cocktail” and was a simple mix of spirit, sugar, bitters, and water. As cocktail culture grew more elaborate in the mid-1800s, the term “Old Fashioned” began to be used to describe this drink.

The Old Fashioned gained popularity in the early 20th century and has since become well known as a traditional American cocktail. The timeless appeal of this drink lies in its ability to be both straightforward and customizable, allowing bartenders and home mixologists alike to put their own spin on the drink. Whether you prefer it with bourbon or rye whiskey, a traditional sugar cube, or a flavored syrup, the Old Fashioned remains a versatile and beloved cocktail.

Bourbon or Whiskey: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to making an Old Fashioned, the choice of spirit is the first step. While bourbon and whiskey are often used interchangeably in this cocktail, they are not the same thing. So, what exactly is the difference between the two?

Whiskey is a broad category that encompasses various types of spirits made from fermented grain mash, including rye, corn, barley, and wheat. The term “whiskey” can refer to spirits produced in different countries, such as Scotch whisky from Scotland, Irish whiskey from Ireland, and American whiskey from the United States.

Bourbon, on the other hand, is a specific type of American whiskey. To be classified as bourbon, the spirit must be made in the United States and contain at least 51% corn in its grain mash. Bourbon also must be aged in new, charred oak barrels and cannot contain any additives or coloring. This gives bourbon its characteristic sweetness and rich flavor profile, making it a popular choice for an Old Fashioned.

When choosing between bourbon and whiskey for your Old Fashioned, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. Bourbon tends to be sweeter and smoother, while rye whiskey, another popular choice, is spicier and more robust. Both work well in an Old Fashioned, so feel free to experiment to find your ideal combination.

When is Peach Season?

Peaches are a quintessential summer fruit, known for their juicy sweetness and fragrant aroma. But when exactly is peach season, and why does it matter for your cocktail?

Peach season typically runs from May to September in the United States, with peak harvest occurring in July and August. During these months, peaches are at their ripest and most flavorful, making them perfect for use in cocktails, desserts, and other culinary creations.

Using fresh, in-season peaches for your Brown Sugar Peach Old Fashioned ensures that your cocktail will have the best possible flavor. The natural sweetness and juiciness of ripe peaches complement the rich, caramel notes of bourbon, creating a harmonious balance in the drink. If you’re making this cocktail outside of peach season, you can still use frozen or canned peaches, but the flavor may not be as vibrant.

How to Make Brown Sugar Peach Syrup

One of the key components of the Brown Sugar Peach Old Fashioned is the brown sugar peach syrup. This homemade syrup adds a sweet, fruity depth to the cocktail that pairs beautifully with the bourbon. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 cup peaches, sliced (fresh or frozen)
• 1 cup water
• 1 cup brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Add the sliced peaches, water, and brown sugar to a saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a medium heat and allow it to simmer for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to help dissolve the sugar.
3. Once the syrup has thickened slightly and the sugar has fully dissolved, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it cool.
4. After the syrup has cooled, strain out the peach slices using a fine mesh strainer. The remaining liquid is your brown sugar peach syrup.
5. Transfer the syrup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to three weeks.

This syrup can be used in a variety of cocktails, as well as drizzled over pancakes, waffles, or ice cream for a sweet, summery treat.

Why Use Clear Ice in an Old Fashioned?

When it comes to crafting the perfect cocktail, details matter. One such detail is the type of ice you use in your cocktail. While it might seem like a minor consideration, the quality of your ice can significantly impact the drinking experience.

Clear ice is often preferred in cocktails like the Old Fashioned for several reasons. First, clear ice is denser and melts more slowly than regular cloudy ice. This means that it dilutes your drink at a slower rate, preserving the balance of flavors for a longer period. Clear ice is also more visually appealing. A large, crystal-clear ice cube adds an element of sophistication to your cocktail, making it look as good as it tastes.

To make clear ice at home, you can use a process called directional freezing. This involves freezing water in a cooler with the top left open, allowing the ice to freeze from the top down, which pushes impurities and air bubbles to the bottom. Once the top layer is fully frozen, you can remove it and cut it into large, clear cubes for your cocktails. However this process requires special tools and a good amount of free space in your freezer. You can buy special molds that use directional freezing to create 1-4 cubes.

To make crystal clear cubes as quickly and efficiently as possible, I use my Klaris ice machine which makes four cubes at a time. It makes perfect clear ice without taking up space in my freezer. If you use my link and code THEBOOZYGINGER10 you can get 10% off your order.

How To Make A Brown Sugar Peach Old Fashioned

Brown Sugar Peach Old Fashioned Recipe

The Brown Sugar Peach Old Fashioned is a delightful twist on the classic cocktail, bringing together the warmth of bourbon with the sweetness of peaches and the depth of brown sugar. Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or a cocktail enthusiast, this drink is sure to impress.

More Peach cocktail recipes you might like:

• Peach Sorbet Mimosa
• Peach and Basil Bourbon Smash

Peach and Brown Sugar Bourbon Old Fashioned