Cognac Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

The Cognac Old Fashioned is a twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, which dates back to the early 1800s. The original Old Fashioned was made with whiskey, but this version uses cognac as the base spirit, giving it a smoother, richer flavor. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy the taste of cognac and are looking for a sophisticated, timeless drink.

• The Old Fashioned is considered one of the oldest cocktails in history
• Cognac Old Fashioned became popular as a variation for those who prefer the taste of cognac over whiskey
• This cocktail is often enjoyed by those who appreciate classic, elegant drinks with a rich history

The Cognac Old Fashioned has a smooth, rich, and slightly sweet taste with notes of oak, vanilla, and caramel. The cognac provides a warm, full-bodied flavor, while the sugar and bitters add a touch of sweetness and complexity.

• Cognac is a type of brandy that is produced in the Cognac region of France
• The Old Fashioned is often considered the 'original' cocktail, as it was one of the first to be documented in recipe books
• The Cognac Old Fashioned is sometimes garnished with an orange twist or cherry to add a touch of color and extra aroma

1. In a mixing glass, combine the cognac, simple syrup, and Angostura bitters
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled
3. Strain the mixture into a rocks glass filled with a large ice cube
4. Express the orange peel over the drink and drop it into the glass
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry

• Use high-quality cognac for the best flavor
• Stir the cocktail well to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved
• Use a large ice cube to keep the drink cold without diluting it too quickly

Savory & Spicy Snacks

• Cheese plates: Rich cheeses like Camembert or Brie complement the velvety notes of cognac.
• Grilled meats: The smoky character pairs exceptionally well with the caramel notes in the cocktail.
• Spiced nuts: Almonds or cashews with a hint of chili can contrast sweet and heat.

Chocolate & Sweets

• Dark chocolate: The bitterness can balance the sweetness and enhance the cognac's complexity.
• Fruit tarts: Citrus or stone fruit tarts echo the citrus notes from the orange peel.

Cigars

• Select cigars: A good cigar can elevate the sipping experience further, complementing the richness and adding a new sensory layer.

• Bourbon or rye whiskey can be used in place of cognac
• Maple syrup can be used as a substitute for simple syrup
• If you don't have Angostura bitters, you can use orange bitters instead

Smoky Cognac Old Fashioned

Ingredients: 2oz smoked cognac, 0.5oz demerara syrup, 2 dashes chocolate bitters, orange peel, garnish: orange twist.

Smoked cognac adds a new layer of depth, while demerara syrup contributes a molasses-like sweetness. Chocolate bitters play up the dessert vibe. Stir the ingredients, strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube, express the orange peel and use the twist garnish. It's a bonfire in a glass, with a slightly more complex and dessert-leaning profile.

Spiced Orange Old Fashioned

Ingredients: 2oz cognac, 0.5oz cinnamon syrup, 2 dashes orange bitters, orange peel, garnish: cinnamon stick.

Cinnamon syrup and orange bitters make it a seasonal treat, perfect for fall. It's like wrapping your cocktail in a cozy sweater. Blend the ingredients, strain into a glass with ice, express the orange peel, and garnish with a cinnamon stick for added spice and scent. It has a warm, inviting spin while staying true to the original's charm.

Herbal Cognac Old Fashioned

Ingredients: 2oz cognac, 0.5oz honey syrup, 2 dashes herbal bitters, lemon peel, garnish: fresh herb sprig.

Honey syrup brings a naturally sweet taste and the herbal bitters introduce a botanical note. Using a lemon peel instead of orange provides a sharper citrus contrast. Stir everything, pour over ice, express the lemon, and add a spring garnish. It's an herb garden's take on a classic, offering a more nuanced and fragrant experience.