The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic and beloved cocktails in the world, with a rich history that spans over two centuries. At its core, the drink is a masterclass in simplicity, consisting of just a few ingredients: bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, typically orange. However, there is one ingredient that has sparked a heated debate among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts alike: the cherry. Specifically, the question of whether to muddle the cherry in an Old Fashioned has become a contentious issue, with some swearing by the practice and others vehemently opposed.
A Brief History of the Old Fashioned
Before we dive into the cherry conundrum, it’s essential to understand the origins of the Old Fashioned. The drink’s history is shrouded in mystery, but it’s believed to have originated in the late 19th century in the United States. One story behind the drink’s creation dates back to the 1880s, when a bartender at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky, created a drink called the “Old Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail.” The recipe consisted of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, and it quickly gained popularity among the club’s members.
Over time, the recipe evolved, and the cherry became a standard garnish for the drink. However, it wasn’t until the mid-20th century that the practice of muddling the cherry in an Old Fashioned became widespread.
The Case for Muddling the Cherry
Proponents of muddling the cherry argue that it releases the fruit’s natural oils and flavors, which complement the other ingredients in the drink. By muddling the cherry, you’re essentially creating a cherry-infused simple syrup that adds depth and complexity to the Old Fashioned.
One of the most famous advocates of muddling the cherry is the legendary bartender, Dale DeGroff. In his book, “The Craft of the Cocktail,” DeGroff writes, “The cherry is an essential part of the Old Fashioned, and it should be muddled to release its oils and flavor.” DeGroff’s approach to muddling the cherry involves gently pressing the fruit with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release its juices.
The Science Behind Muddling the Cherry
From a scientific perspective, muddling the cherry does release the fruit’s natural oils and flavors. The cherry’s skin contains tiny sacs of oil that are released when the fruit is pressed or muddled. These oils contain compounds like benzaldehyde and linalool, which contribute to the cherry’s distinctive flavor and aroma.
However, it’s worth noting that the amount of oil released by muddling the cherry is relatively small compared to the overall volume of the drink. This has led some to argue that the impact of muddling the cherry is minimal and that the practice is more of a ritual than a necessity.
The Case Against Muddling the Cherry
On the other hand, there are many bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts who argue that muddling the cherry is unnecessary and can even detract from the overall flavor of the Old Fashioned.
One of the main arguments against muddling the cherry is that it can make the drink too sweet. When you muddle the cherry, you’re releasing its natural sugars, which can add to the overall sweetness of the drink. This can be particularly problematic if you’re using a sweet bourbon or rye whiskey, as the added sugar from the cherry can make the drink cloying.
Another argument against muddling the cherry is that it can overpower the other flavors in the drink. The Old Fashioned is a delicate balance of flavors, and the cherry can easily dominate the other ingredients if it’s muddled too aggressively.
Alternative Approaches to the Cherry
If you’re not a fan of muddling the cherry, there are several alternative approaches you can take. One option is to simply drop the cherry into the drink without muddling it. This allows the cherry to add a subtle flavor and aroma to the drink without overpowering the other ingredients.
Another approach is to use a cherry liqueur or syrup instead of a fresh cherry. This can add a more subtle cherry flavor to the drink without the need for muddling.
Experimenting with Different Types of Cherries
Finally, it’s worth noting that the type of cherry you use can make a big difference in the flavor of the Old Fashioned. Some popular types of cherries for cocktails include:
-
- Maraschino cherries: These are the most commonly used cherries for cocktails and have a sweet, almond-flavored flavor.
- Morello cherries: These are a type of sour cherry that have a tart, slightly sweet flavor.
- Bing cherries: These are a type of sweet cherry that have a rich, fruity flavor.
Experimenting with different types of cherries can help you find the perfect flavor for your Old Fashioned.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the question of whether to muddle the cherry in an Old Fashioned is a matter of personal preference. While some bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts swear by the practice, others argue that it’s unnecessary and can even detract from the overall flavor of the drink.
Ultimately, the key to making a great Old Fashioned is to experiment and find the approach that works best for you. Whether you choose to muddle the cherry or not, the most important thing is to use high-quality ingredients and to pay attention to the balance of flavors in the drink.
So the next time you’re making an Old Fashioned, don’t be afraid to experiment with different approaches to the cherry. You might just find that it makes all the difference in the flavor of your drink.
What is muddling in the context of an Old Fashioned cocktail?
Muddling is a bartending technique that involves gently pressing ingredients, typically fruit or herbs, with a muddler or the back of a spoon to release their flavors and oils. In the context of an Old Fashioned, muddling usually refers to the process of crushing a cherry and an orange peel in the bottom of a mixing glass to release their flavors and aromas.
When muddling a cherry in an Old Fashioned, the goal is to release the cherry’s natural sweetness and flavor compounds, which will then infuse into the drink as it’s mixed. However, some bartenders and enthusiasts argue that muddling can also introduce unwanted bitterness and astringency into the drink, particularly if the cherry is over-muddled.
What is the traditional method of preparing an Old Fashioned?
The traditional method of preparing an Old Fashioned involves placing a sugar cube in the bottom of a mixing glass, adding a small amount of water to the glass, and then using a muddler or the back of a spoon to crush the sugar until it dissolves. A cherry and an orange peel are then added to the glass, and the mixture is muddled gently to release the flavors and aromas.
The mixture is then topped with bourbon or rye whiskey, and the drink is stirred until chilled. Some recipes may vary, but this is the basic method that has been passed down through generations of bartenders. However, some modern bartenders have begun to question the need for muddling the cherry, and some have even abandoned the practice altogether.
What are the arguments in favor of muddling a cherry in an Old Fashioned?
Proponents of muddling argue that it releases the cherry’s natural sweetness and flavor compounds, which enhance the overall flavor profile of the drink. They also argue that the texture of the muddled cherry adds depth and complexity to the drink. Additionally, muddling can help to balance out the bitterness of the whiskey and the bitters, creating a more harmonious flavor profile.
Furthermore, muddling is a traditional technique that has been used for generations, and many bartenders and enthusiasts argue that it’s an essential part of the Old Fashioned’s character. They believe that abandoning muddling would alter the fundamental nature of the drink and make it less authentic.
What are the arguments against muddling a cherry in an Old Fashioned?
Detractors of muddling argue that it can introduce unwanted bitterness and astringency into the drink, particularly if the cherry is over-muddled. They also argue that muddling can make the drink too sweet and overpowering, masking the subtle flavors of the whiskey and bitters. Additionally, some bartenders believe that muddling is unnecessary, as the cherry’s flavors can be released through other means, such as simply adding it to the drink as a garnish.
Furthermore, some bartenders argue that muddling is a messy and inefficient technique that can be time-consuming and labor-intensive. They believe that there are better ways to prepare an Old Fashioned that don’t involve muddling, such as using a flavored syrup or a cherry liqueur.
Can I still make a great Old Fashioned without muddling the cherry?
Yes, it’s entirely possible to make a great Old Fashioned without muddling the cherry. In fact, many modern bartenders have abandoned muddling altogether and instead use alternative techniques, such as adding a cherry liqueur or a flavored syrup to the drink. Others simply add the cherry as a garnish, allowing the drinker to experience the flavors and aromas of the cherry without the need for muddling.
The key to making a great Old Fashioned without muddling is to focus on using high-quality ingredients and to pay attention to the balance of flavors in the drink. By using a good whiskey, a flavorful bitters, and a touch of sweetness, you can create a delicious and well-balanced Old Fashioned that doesn’t require muddling.
How can I muddle a cherry effectively in an Old Fashioned?
To muddle a cherry effectively in an Old Fashioned, start by placing the cherry in the bottom of a mixing glass. Add a small amount of sugar and a dash of bitters to the glass, and then use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently press the cherry and release its flavors and oils. Be careful not to over-muddle, as this can introduce unwanted bitterness and astringency into the drink.
As you muddle, focus on releasing the cherry’s natural sweetness and flavor compounds, rather than trying to crush the cherry into a pulp. You want to create a subtle, nuanced flavor profile that enhances the overall character of the drink. By muddling gently and with restraint, you can create a delicious and well-balanced Old Fashioned that showcases the beauty of the cherry.
What’s the best type of cherry to use in an Old Fashioned?
The best type of cherry to use in an Old Fashioned is a matter of personal preference, but many bartenders and enthusiasts swear by Luxardo cherries. These cherries are made from a specific variety of sour cherry that’s prized for its rich, fruity flavor and firm texture. They’re also preserved in a sweet syrup that adds depth and complexity to the drink.
Other types of cherries, such as maraschino cherries or fresh cherries, can also be used in an Old Fashioned. However, Luxardo cherries are generally considered the gold standard, and they’re widely available in most liquor stores and online. By using a high-quality cherry, you can elevate the flavor profile of your Old Fashioned and create a truly exceptional drink.