Have a tropically-tinged version of a classic cocktail with the spicy and strong Rum Old Fashioned.
The case had taken the grizzled gumshoe to a tiny island somewhere amongst the turquoise waters of the Caribbean. At first, the idea seemed like a good one. A respite from the grime and crime of the big bad city, the private dick thought to themselves. It had been too long, and now might be the best time to get away, even if a mystery was still afoot.
But what wasn’t expected was the heat. Sure, those white, sandy beaches stretching for miles, being lapped at by gentle, warm waves, looked relaxing and inviting… But the heat was almost unbearable. And the strange looks from everyone else frolicking in the surf and sunbathing didn’t make things any less uncomfortable. As the sweat continued to pour and pool all over their overheating body, the caper was quickly forgotten and replaced by an unholy thirst.
A beachside bar miraculously appeared, so the P.I. wobbled over to it. They asked the friendly barkeep for the perfect libation, something they think a salty shamus might imbibe in this tropical clime. With a knowing nod, a rocks glass appeared, filled with what looked to be an Old Fashioned. But after one sip, tropical notes of jungle fruits, spices and the subtle sweetness of caramel and vanilla played with the sugar and bitters that are always so welcome in the classic version of this elixir. The Rum Old Fashioned hit the spot, and looked right at home in the gumshoe’s hand.
The bartender advised, however, that on their next trip to the islands, they leave the trench coat and fedora at home.
What Is The Best Rum To Use In A Rum Old Fashioned?
A dark rum is the finer option when concocting a Rum Old Fashioned, or three for yourself. Similar in color to whiskey or bourbon—which is what is traditionally used in this libation—a spiced and aged dark rum will bring a robust and full-bodied flavor to your lips. The notes from the caramel, vanilla and other spices will complement the sugar and bitters, making for an unforgettably potent drinking experience.
Ingredients
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 to 3 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 splash water
- 2 ounces dark rum
- 1 orange peel to garnish
Instructions
- Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass. Sprinkle the Angostura bitters over the sugar and add a splash of water. Muddle until the sugar is fully dissolved.
- Add the rum and stir gently to combine.
- Add a large ice cube and twist a piece of orange peel over the top of the glass before dropping it into the drink as a garnish.
Nutrition
WHAT GLASSWARE AND GARNISH ARE USED?
When one plans on imbibing any kind of Old Fashioned, one must have an Old Fashioned glass handy. Place a cocktail ice cube in and garnish with an orange twist, after expressing its oils over your drink.
CAN OTHER TYPES OF BITTERS BE USED?
Of course. While our recipe calls for using the standard Angostura bitters, you can subtly alter your cocktail’s flavor profile by using a few drops of another style instead. In the Rum Old Fashioned, chocolate or orange bitters play nicely with the spirit and sugar.
Other Old Fashioned Variations Worth Trying
One evening, some friends and I embarked on a night of Old Fashioned drinking. And by that, I mean we imbibed nothing but Old Fashioned cocktails. Different spirits, different bitters, an array of infusions and garnish… Never did we sip on the same Old Fashioned twice, and when our time was through, there were still a fair number of versions of the classic that we had yet to explore. If you’re curious about what other styles of this cocktail are floating around, check out some of these recipes from Twist & Toast.
- Gin Campari Old Fashioned – Beautifully bitter and biting, this elixir is a powerful one.
- Smoked Old Fashioned – Impress your guests by serving this atmospheric dram.
- Brandy Old Fashioned – Take a few sips of this traditional Wisconsin favorite.
- Oaxaca Old Fashioned – Try out this exotic, yet familiar-tasting tipple at your next cocktail hour.
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