The Gin Old Fashioned replaces the whiskey with London Dry Gin while retaining the structure of the original: spirit, sugar, bitters, ice. Instead of bourbon caramel, the juniper note of the gin comes to the fore, while the orange zest highlights the citrus aromas. The drink remains strong and dry, but becomes more floral and less heavy. If you like the Old Fashioned but prefer gin, this is an elegant alternative.
And here’s what you need for the Gin Old Fashioned
6 cl London Dry Gin
1 sugar cube or 1 cl sugar syrup
3 dashes Angostura Bitters
1 orange zest
What matters most
The Gin Old Fashioned thrives on the balance between gin and bitters. Too much Angostura overpowers the juniper notes, too little leaves the drink flat. Three dashes are the standard, but with very spicy gin, two may suffice. The orange zest is not just decoration, but an ingredient: its oils settle on the surface and change the first sip. Using lemon zest shifts the drink into Martini territory. Syrup instead of sugar cubes speeds up preparation but removes the small ritual of muddling.
Variations
- Genever Old Fashioned — With Genever instead of London Dry Gin — maltier, denser, closer to the whiskey original.
- Barrel-Aged Gin Old Fashioned — With gin aged in barrel for more oak and vanilla notes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which gin works best?
A classic London Dry Gin with a pronounced juniper note works best. Gins that are too floral or citrus-heavy become unbalanced when combined with bitters and orange zest. Navy Strength Gin adds more strength but may require a splash of water.
Can I use different bitters?
Yes. Orange Bitters enhance the citrus note, while Aromatic Bitters stay closer to the original. For experimentation, you can combine one dash of Angostura with one dash of Orange Bitters.
Why stir instead of shake?
Stirring cools and dilutes the drink gently without making it cloudy. The Gin Old Fashioned should be clear and silky, not frothy. Shaking would destroy the texture.
