MARCH 2025
The Cocktail Corner by Peter Karnowski, Food & Beverage Director
aroma without compromising the drink’s clarity or texture. This approach appeals to those who prefer a more balanced and streamlined Old Fashioned. Ultimately, whether or not to muddle an Old Fashioned depends on personal preference and the desired experience. Muddling creates a more rustic, textured drink with a deeper infusion of the ingredients, while skipping the muddling can result in a smoother, more minimalist version that shows the quality of the whiskey. Both methods have their place in the world of classic cocktails, and the choice of approach may reflect a bartender's individual style or the preferences of the drinker. The Old Fashioned remains a versatile cocktail, open to interpretation while honoring its storied history. So, no matter how you enjoy your Old-Fashioned cocktail, make sure you enjoy it with Seven Oaks!!
To muddle or not to muddle? That is the Old Fashioned question.
The question of whether an Old-Fashioned cocktail should be muddled has been a point of debate among bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts for years. Traditionally, an Old Fashioned is made by muddling a sugar cube with bitters in a glass before adding whiskey and ice. This method allows the sugar and bitters to dissolve together, creating a harmonious base for the drink. Muddling is particularly effective in releasing the essential oils from the orange peel, which adds a layer of complexity to the cocktail. For purists, this technique is essential for capturing the essence of the Old Fashioned as it was originally intended. On the other hand, some modern interpretations of the Old Fashioned argue against muddling. Critics of the muddling technique suggest that it can result in an overly sweet or bitter drink, especially when the sugar doesn't fully dissolve, leaving granules at the bottom. By omitting muddling, bartenders can create a cleaner, more refined version of the cocktail that relies solely on the flavors of the whiskey and the bitters. Additionally, the citrus peel can be expressed by simply twisting it over the glass, enhancing the
March 7th Vince Galindo & the Country Deluxe
March 21st Triple Threat Band
March 14th Randy Horne
March 28th Terry Lawless
6
Made with FlippingBook Ebook Creator