The Perfect Winter Cocktail: The Spiced Old Fashioned
There’s something timeless about an Old Fashioned — rich, balanced, and steeped in ritual. The Spiced Old Fashioned takes this classic to new heights with a smooth bourbon base infused with warm spices that unfold beautifully in every sip. With Spirits With Smoke’s infusion kit, this cocktail becomes more than a drink — it’s an experience in aroma, craftsmanship, and mindful enjoyment.
In this article, we’ll explore the art of infusion, the essential bar tools for mastering this cocktail, and how to create both the spirited and mocktail versions that embody the warmth of the season.
History
The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s, often hailed as one of the very first cocktails. Traditionally, it’s a simple combination of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and citrus — stirred to perfection. The Spiced Old Fashioned builds upon this heritage, introducing layers of flavor through infusion, where spices meet bourbon for a rich, aromatic twist. Spirits With Smoke elevates this tradition, turning a beloved recipe into a slow-crafted ritual that connects you to the essence of mixology.
The Art of Infusion
How to Infuse Your Bourbon
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Fill your infusion jar with up to 750 mL (26 oz) of your favorite bourbon — ideally something wheated or balanced like Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Knob Creek.
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Let it infuse for 2 days to allow the flavors to fully develop.
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After 48 hours, squeeze the tea bag and discard it to prevent over-infusion.
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Your spiced bourbon will keep for up to 6 months, ready to pour when the craving strikes.
Flavor Development
The result is a bourbon that’s rich, aromatic, and lightly spiced — a comforting expression of warmth and depth that transforms every Old Fashioned into something special.
Bar Tools Required
To make your Spiced Old Fashioned shine, prepare the following:
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Jigger
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Mixing Beaker
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St. George Strainer
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Rocks Glass
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Spoon
Using quality tools ensures consistency and precision, allowing you to craft a professional-quality cocktail right at home.
Steps to Make Your Cocktail
Step 1: Chill your rocks glass with ice.
Step 2: Pour 2 oz of your infused bourbon into a mixing beaker.
Step 3 (Optional): Add ½ tsp of brown sugar for extra depth and sweetness.
Step 4: Stir for 20 rotations to blend flavors evenly.
Step 5: Strain into your chilled rocks glass over a king cube for optimal presentation.
Step 6: Garnish with an Orange Wheel Garnish from Spirits With Smoke for a touch of citrus aroma and visual appeal.
Flavor Profile & Experience
The Spiced Old Fashioned is rich, aromatic, and lightly spiced, offering a warm depth that highlights the bourbon’s natural caramel notes. Each sip balances sweetness and spice, making it the perfect cocktail for cozy evenings or festive gatherings.
Recommended Spirits
For best results, choose a wheated bourbon that complements the spice profile:
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Maker’s Mark
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Buffalo Trace
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Knob Creek
These selections provide a smooth, balanced foundation that pairs beautifully with the warm infusion notes.
Mocktail Option
For a non-alcoholic version, infuse black tea using the same kit. Combine chilled tea, brown sugar, and a dash of orange bitters to recreate the experience of the Spiced Old Fashioned — all of the ritual, none of the alcohol.
Mindful Consumption Note
Slow down. Stir deliberately. Savor the process. Each rotation of your spoon connects you to centuries of cocktail craftsmanship. The Spiced Old Fashioned is more than a drink — it’s a reminder to pause, appreciate the moment, and never drink ordinary.
Conclusion
The Spiced Old Fashioned is a celebration of warmth, craftsmanship, and timeless flavor. Whether you’re infusing bourbon for a cozy night in or preparing a mocktail for a mindful evening, this cocktail captures the art of intentional drinking. Using Spirits With Smoke’s tools and garnishes, you can transform every pour into a ritual worth savoring.
