The Essentials of a Rich Espresso Old Fashioned
The Espresso Old Fashioned is a sophisticated twist on the classic cocktail that combines the boldness of whiskey with the richness of espresso.
This drink balances the warmth of bourbon or rye with the deep flavors of coffee and a touch of sweetness.
• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 1/2 oz freshly brewed espresso
• 1/4 oz simple syrup
• 2-3 dashes of bitters
• Orange twist for garnish
To make this cocktail, you’ll start by adding ice to a mixing glass.
Then, pour in the whiskey, cooled espresso, and simple syrup.
Add a few dashes of bitters, then stir until well-chilled.
Strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice and garnish with an orange twist.
Choosing Your Spirits
When selecting your base spirit, you have two excellent options: bourbon or rye whiskey.
Bourbon offers a sweeter profile with notes of vanilla and caramel that complement the espresso beautifully.
Rye, on the other hand, brings a spicier edge that can add complexity to your drink.
Choose a high-quality whiskey that you enjoy sipping on its own.
Look for options in the 80-100 proof range to stand up to the strong espresso flavors.
Some popular choices include:
• Bourbon: Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Four Roses Single Barrel
• Rye: Rittenhouse, Sazerac, or WhistlePig
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different whiskeys to find your perfect match.
The spirit you choose will significantly impact the final taste of your Espresso Old Fashioned.
Crafting the Perfect Espresso Shot
The espresso is the heart of this cocktail, so it’s crucial to get it right.
Use freshly roasted, high-quality coffee beans for the best flavor.
A dark roast often works well, as it can stand up to the strong whiskey flavors.
Grind your beans just before brewing for optimal freshness.
Aim for a fine grind, similar to table salt.
When pulling your shot, look for:
• A 25-30 second extraction time
• A rich, dark color with a golden crema on top
• A volume of about 1 oz (30ml) for a single shot
Let your espresso cool slightly before adding it to the cocktail.
This prevents the ice from melting too quickly and diluting your drink.
If you don’t have an espresso machine, a strong brew from a Moka pot or AeroPress can work in a pinch.
Sweetening the Mix
While the classic Old Fashioned uses a sugar cube, the Espresso Old Fashioned typically calls for simple syrup.
This liquid sweetener blends more easily with the cold ingredients.
To make simple syrup:
- Combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan.
- Heat until the sugar dissolves completely.
- Let it cool before using.
You can also experiment with flavored syrups to add depth to your cocktail.
Try:
• Vanilla syrup for a smooth, creamy note
• Cinnamon syrup for a warm, spicy kick
• Maple syrup for a rich, autumnal twist
Start with 1/4 oz of syrup and adjust to taste.
Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out once it’s in the glass.
The Art of Bitters
Bitters are the seasoning of the cocktail world.
They add depth and complexity to your Espresso Old Fashioned.
While Angostura bitters are the traditional choice, you have room to play here.
Try these bitters to complement the coffee and whiskey:
• Chocolate bitters for a mocha-like flavor
• Orange bitters to enhance the citrus notes
• Coffee bitters to double down on the espresso theme
Use 2-3 dashes of bitters per cocktail.
You can even combine different types for a more nuanced flavor profile.
Just be careful not to overdo it – bitters are potent and can quickly overpower your drink.