Port Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
Port Old Fashioned Nutrition Facts
Calories:~160
Fat:0g
Protein:0g
Carbohydrates:~8g
Alcohol:~20%
Created by
Nic Polotnianko
I fell in love with the art of mixology 6 years ago. Since then, I've honed my skills, crafting a myriad of cocktail recipes, and sharing my passion with other enthusiasts.
Last Updated: August 23, 2024
Contents
History
The Port Old Fashioned is a twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, which dates back to the early 19th century. This version incorporates the rich, velvety flavors of aged tawny port to complement the traditional bourbon base. It's a hit among those who appreciate a well-rounded, spirit-forward drink with a touch of sweetness and complexity.
- The Old Fashioned is often considered the original cocktail.
- Port wine adds a unique European flair to this American classic.
- Ideal for sipping on a cool evening or as a sophisticated after-dinner drink.
How Port Old Fashioned Tastes?
The Port Old Fashioned offers a harmonious blend of sweet and oaky flavors, with the marmalade providing a subtle citrus note. The aged port and bourbon deliver a robust and warming mouthfeel, while the soda adds a light effervescence that balances the drink's richness.
Interesting facts about Port Old Fashioned
- The Old Fashioned was reportedly first mixed at the Pendennis Club in Louisville, Kentucky.
- Tawny port is known for its nutty flavors and is often enjoyed as a dessert wine.
- The use of marmalade in cocktails dates back to the early 20th century, where it was used to add sweetness and texture.
Ingredients
- Taylor's 10 year old tawny: 1 oz(30ml)
- Whisky bourbon or aged rum: 0.85 oz(26ml)
- Marmalade: 1 barspoon
- Soda: 0.68 oz(20ml)
- Ice: as needed
Taylor's 10 Year Old Tawny
This aged port adds a rich, complex sweetness with hints of dried fruits and nuts. The 1 oz measurement ensures that the port doesn't overpower the other ingredients. Without it, you'd miss the distinct velvety character it brings to the cocktail. If unavailable, one could use a different Tawny port, but the profile might change slightly.
Emma Rose
Whisky Bourbon or Aged Rum
We use 0.85 oz to add warmth and a vanilla-oak backbone without dominating the port. Skipping or overdoing this ingredient would unbalance the drink, making it either too strong or too mild. An aged Scotch could be a smokier alternative.
Mary Mitkina
Marmalade
A barspoon adds a touch of citrusy sweetness and helps bind the flavors together. Too much and the drink becomes a jammy mess, too little and the balancing act falls apart. A citrus zest could be a less sweet alternative.
Alex Green
Soda
Soda at 0.68 oz provides dilution and a slight effervescence to lighten the drink. Without it, the cocktail might be too robust. You can adjust the soda to taste, but too much might water down the complexities.
Emma Rose
Ice
As needed, to chill and dilute the cocktail, enhancing its smoothness. No ice would leave you with a warm, strong cocktail, altering the desired experience. Crushed ice provides faster dilution than cubed ice.
Mary Mitkina
Recipe. How to make Port Old Fashioned Drink
- Fill a glass with ice to chill.
- In a shaker, combine the Taylor's 10 Year Old Tawny, bourbon or aged rum, and marmalade.
- Shake the mixture vigorously.
- Double strain into the chilled glass over fresh ice.
- Top with soda and stir gently to combine.
- Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry, if desired.
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality aged tawny port to ensure the cocktail has depth and character.
- When shaking the ingredients, make sure to dissolve the marmalade completely for a smooth texture.
- Chill the glass beforehand to keep the cocktail cold longer.
Perfect Pairings
Food Pairings
- Grilled Steak: The robust flavors of a nicely charred steak complement the rich and complex notes of the whiskey in the cocktail.
- Spicy Chicken Wings: The sweet notes from the Tawny Port and marmalade can offset the spiciness of the wings.
- Dark Chocolate Desserts: Chocolate and Port are a classic match, and the chocolate's bitterness pairs well with the sweetness of the cocktail.
- Cheese Board: Opt for aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda to match the depth of flavor in the cocktail.
Drink Pairing
- Espresso: Enjoy an espresso alongside your Port Old Fashioned to heighten both the drink's and the coffee's rich flavors.
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What you could change in Port Old Fashioned
- Taylor's 10 Year Old Tawny: Can be substituted with another quality aged tawny port.
- Whisky Bourbon: A rye whiskey or a different brand of bourbon can be used for a spicier kick.
- Marmalade: Orange liqueur or a simple syrup with orange zest can be used as a substitute.
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And of course - twists🍹
Smoky Port Old Fashioned
- Add a splash of peaty Scotch instead of bourbon or rum.
- Include a barspoon of honey in lieu of marmalade for a smokier sweetness.
- This twist turns the cocktail into a smoky affair that peat enthusiasts would love, while still keeping the integrity of the original with the Tawny Port.
Citrus Burst Old Fashioned
- Use a zesty orange marmalade and add a splash of fresh orange juice.
- Switch the soda to a traditional lemon-lime soda.
- The added citrus elements give this twist a refreshing zing, perfect for those looking for a brighter, more summery take on the classic.
Spiced Rum Old Fashioned
- Utilize spiced rum instead of bourbon for an exotic spin.
- Enhance with a dash of Angostura bitters to complement the spiced rum's flavors.
- This variation brings an inviting warmth and intrigue to the drink, ideal for autumn evenings or as a holiday cocktail.
In case you forgot basics how to make Port Old Fashioned
Add your ingredients to the shaker first, then ice. Fill it up to ¾ of its capacity to ensure enough space for shaking. Hold the shaker with both hands (one on the top and one on the bottom) and shake vigorously. The shake should come from your shoulders, not your wrists.
Learn everything on how to shakePlace your chosen strainer on top of the shaker or mixing glass, ensuring a secure fit. Pour the cocktail into a glass through the strainer, which will catch solid ingredients and ice. If double straining, hold the fine mesh strainer between the shaker and the glass.
Learn everything on how to strainInsert the spoon into the glass until it touches the bottom. Keep the back of the spoon against the inside wall of the glass, and stir in a smooth, circular motion. The goal is to swirl the ice and ingredients together without churning or splashing.
Learn everything on how to stirGarnishing a bar drink depends on the type of garnish and the cocktail. Generally, it involves preparing the garnish (like cutting a citrus wheel or picking a sprig of mint), and then adding it to the drink in a visually appealing way (like perching it on the rim or floating it on top).
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Frequently Asked Questions on Port Old Fashioned
What is the best type of glass to serve a Port Old Fashioned in?
A Port Old Fashioned is typically served in a lowball or rocks glass, which allows the aromas and flavors to concentrate, enhancing the sipping experience.
Can I make a Port Old Fashioned without a shaker?
Yes, you can build the drink directly in the serving glass by stirring the ingredients over ice, but ensure the marmalade is well integrated.
Is muddling necessary for the Port Old Fashioned?
Muddling isn't typically required for this cocktail, as the marmalade is meant to dissolve when shaken; however, a light muddle can help integrate the flavors if desired.
What are some non-alcoholic substitutions for this cocktail?
For a non-alcoholic version, use non-alcoholic aged port and spirit substitutes, like Seedlip, and use the same mix of supporting ingredients.
How significant is the quality of ice in a cocktail?
The quality of ice is crucial as it affects the temperature and dilution rate of the cocktail. Clear, large ice cubes are ideal for minimal dilution and sustained chill.
Are there any notable variations of the Old Fashioned cocktail?
Yes, there are many variations, including those that use different spirits like rye or mezcal, or those that incorporate various syrups, bitters, and garnishes.
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