There’s something timeless about an Old Fashioned. It’s simple, elegant, and packed with character—just bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist. But don’t be fooled by the short ingredient list. The real magic of this cocktail lies in the quality of what goes in, especially the bourbon.
Choosing the Best Bourbon for an Old Fashion isn’t about just grabbing whatever bottle is on hand. Whether you're a seasoned bourbon sipper or just starting to explore whiskey cocktails, the right bourbon can take your Old Fashioned from decent to unforgettable. It should strike a balance between boldness and smoothness, with enough flavor to shine through but not overpower.
So let’s dive into the bottles that are stirring up Old Fashioneds everywhere—from budget-friendly classics to top-shelf showstoppers.
What Makes a Bourbon Great for an Old Fashioned?
Before we name names, it helps to understand what makes a bourbon ideal for this cocktail. A good Old Fashioned bourbon should have:
- A higher proof (90–100+ is ideal) for holding up against dilution from ice.
- Rich flavors like vanilla, caramel, spice, and oak that complement the sweetness of the sugar and the bitterness of the bitters.
- A smooth finish so the drink goes down easy but still delivers complexity.
With that in mind, here are the best bourbons to use right now for crafting the perfect Old Fashioned.
1. Buffalo Trace – A Crowd Favorite
Buffalo Trace is one of the most beloved bourbons on the market—for good reason. It delivers warm notes of toffee, vanilla, and a hint of spice, all balanced in a smooth 90-proof pour. It’s approachable yet layered, making it a fantastic base for an Old Fashioned that’s mellow but still flavorful.
Bonus: It’s affordable and widely available, which means you can make this cocktail a regular ritual without breaking the bank.
2. Wild Turkey 101 – Bold and Balanced
Looking for a bit more kick? Wild Turkey 101 brings the heat at 101 proof, but it does so with finesse. It’s got bold flavors of cinnamon, oak, and burnt sugar—strong enough to shine through the cocktail but smooth enough to keep things easy-drinking.
This bourbon’s high rye content adds a little spice to your Old Fashioned, perfect for those who like their cocktails with some edge.
3. Bulleit Bourbon – A Rye-Forward Option
Bulleit has carved out a niche with its high-rye content, and that spice-forward profile translates beautifully in an Old Fashioned. At 90 proof, it has the strength and complexity to stand up to the sugar and bitters, with notes of orange peel, nutmeg, and pepper coming through.
If you like your Old Fashioned a bit drier and spicier, Bulleit is a top-tier choice.
4. Woodford Reserve – Smooth Sophistication
If your Old Fashioned is a Saturday night ritual or something you whip up to impress guests, Woodford Reserve is your bottle. It’s polished, balanced, and incredibly smooth, with deep caramel and chocolate notes layered with dried fruit and vanilla.
This is the bourbon for a sophisticated Old Fashioned—no frills, just classic flavor done exceptionally well.
5. Elijah Craig Small Batch – Rich and Reliable
At 94 proof, Elijah Craig Small Batch brings a robust profile to your glass without overpowering it. Expect flavors of toasted oak, baking spices, and a honeyed sweetness that pairs beautifully with bitters and orange zest.
It strikes a wonderful balance between complexity and smoothness, making it a great go-to if you’re looking for a versatile bottle that works equally well in cocktails and neat pours.
6. Old Forester 100 Proof (Signature) – Bartender’s Secret Weapon
Ask any bartender what they use to craft an Old Fashioned, and Old Forester 100 Proof is likely on their list. It’s rich, spicy, and built for mixing, with a deep oakiness and vanilla warmth that punches through even large-format ice.
The higher proof means it won’t get lost in the mix, and the price point makes it one of the best values out there. It’s a staple for good reason.
7. Knob Creek 9-Year – For the Aged Bourbon Lover
If you like your bourbon with a bit more maturity, Knob Creek 9-Year is a stellar option. Aged longer than most in this category, it delivers deep notes of charred oak, maple syrup, and toasted nuts. At 100 proof, it’s bold and velvety, ideal for a more complex, slow-sipping Old Fashioned.
This one’s for when you want your cocktail to feel a little more like an experience than a quick fix.
How to Build the Perfect Old Fashioned
Even the best bourbon won’t save a poorly made Old Fashioned. Here’s a quick reminder on how to get it just right:
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 sugar cube (or ½ tsp simple syrup)
- 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Ice
Instructions:
- Muddle the sugar and bitters in a rocks glass (if using a cube, add a few drops of water).
- Add bourbon and stir.
- Add one large ice cube (or a few smaller ones) and stir again.
- Express the orange peel over the drink and drop it in.
That’s it. Simple, classy, and timeless.
Conclusion
When it comes to crafting the ultimate Old Fashioned, the bourbon is everything. Whether you prefer something spicy, sweet, bold, or balanced, there’s a perfect bottle waiting for your glass. From everyday favorites like Buffalo Trace and Wild Turkey 101 to more refined picks like Woodford Reserve and Knob Creek, these bourbons will help you mix a cocktail that’s far more than just a drink—it’s a moment.
