top of page
Search

Rethinking Vintage Vibes with a Modern Twist on the Brandy Old Fashioned

  • Writer: The Cocktail Hour
    The Cocktail Hour
  • 6 days ago
  • 3 min read

Cocktails can whisk us away not just to different places but also to different times. The Brandy Old Fashioned offers a perfect example, giving us a taste of history while appealing to modern palates. This particular cocktail's origins trace back to the 1869 classic Cooling Cups and Dainty Drinks by William Terrington, which features a plethora of vintage cocktails. In this post, we are giving the Brandy Cocktail a contemporary upgrade, transforming it into the delightful Modern Brandy Old Fashioned.


The Original Recipe


Terrington’s original Brandy Cocktail blends:


  • Brandy

  • Curaçao

  • Bitters

  • Ginger syrup, served over ice


While this recipe charmingly reflects its era, it evokes scenes of elegant gatherings in the late 19th century. Guests, clad in their finest outfits, enjoyed these carefully crafted drinks, where flavors were intricate and blended beautifully.


The Modern Brandy Old Fashioned


We’ve revitalized this classic into the Modern Brandy Old Fashioned, merging vintage charm with present-day tastes. Here’s how to create this delightful cocktail:


Cocktail Ingredients


  • 2 oz brandy

  • ½ oz dry curaçao

  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters

  • ¼ oz ginger syrup


Mixology Instructions


  1. Stir the ingredients over ice to let the flavors mix and blend.

  2. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube for a perfect chill

  3. Garnish with an orange twist to add brightness and an aromatic touch to your drink.


Eye-level view of a beautifully garnished Brandy Old Fashioned cocktail
Close-up of a modern Brandy Old Fashioned cocktail garnished with an orange twist.

This twist on the traditional recipe brings in flavors that are appealing today. The dry curaçao enhances the brandy's depth, while the ginger syrup adds a warming touch, making this cocktail a fantastic choice for any gathering.


Snack Pairings for the Perfect Cocktail Hour


A great cocktail deserves equally delightful snacks! Here are delectable options to complement your Modern Brandy Old Fashioned.


Savory & Salty Options


  • Marcona Almonds: These lightly salted almonds have a buttery flavor and are perfect for snacking, balancing excellently with the rich notes of your drink.


  • Olive Mix: A blend of Castelvetrano, Kalamata, and stuffed green olives creates a salty contrast to the sweetness of the cocktail.


  • Cheese Crisps or Parmesan Tuiles: These crunchy treats are quick to prepare or easily found at the store, adding satisfying texture to your cocktail experience.


Cheese & Charcuterie Pairings


  • Aged Cheddar Cubes: The sharp taste of aged cheddar balances the sweetness of the cocktail, creating a harmonious combination.


  • Blue Cheese with Honey Drizzle: The bold flavor of blue cheese enhanced by honey pairs wonderfully with brandy, accentuating both sweet and salty elements.


  • Prosciutto-Wrapped Breadsticks: Simple to make, these elegant snacks enhance your cocktail hour with a touch of class.


Light Bites


  • Spiced Nuts: A blend of mixed nuts tossed with rosemary, smoked paprika, and sea salt offers a flavorful kick that complements the drink beautifully.


  • Crostini with Fig Jam & Goat Cheese: This sweet and savory pairing complements the citrus and spice notes of the cocktail, making every bite a delight.


  • Herbed Popcorn: Seasoned with rosemary or drizzled with truffle oil, this savory treat adds an aromatic flourish, making it an enticing match for your Brandy Old Fashioned.


Close-up of assorted snacks including cheese, olives, and nuts for cocktail hour
Top view of a platter featuring cheese, olives, and savory snacks for cocktail pairing.

Final Thoughts


Breathing new life into vintage cocktails doesn't diminish their history; it enriches our experience. The Modern Brandy Old Fashioned exemplifies this adaptation, allowing us to enjoy classic recipes while incorporating modern flavors.


When paired with mouthwatering snacks, your cocktail hour becomes an unforgettable experience. Whether you're hosting a casual get-together or a formal soirée, this updated classic and its thoughtfully chosen accompaniments are sure to impress and delight your guests.


Now that you have these recipes and pairings, gather your ingredients, invite friends, and enjoy a delightful journey through time with the Modern Brandy Old Fashioned. Cheers!


View the original book on the Internet Archive



 
 
bottom of page