We’ve always been captivated by the Anejo Old Fashioned a timeless cocktail that swaps traditional whiskey for rich aged tequila. Originating from the classic Old Fashioned’s 19th-century roots it’s a smooth twist that brings warm caramel notes and a hint of spice to your glass.
In our version we keep it simple yet elegant drawing on premium Añejo tequila to create a drink that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting friends or unwinding alone this recipe promises a sophisticated sip that’ll elevate your home bar.
Ingredients
To craft our Anejo Old Fashioned, we gather high-quality ingredients that highlight the cocktail’s sophisticated twist on the classic. We order them here as they are used in preparation, from base elements to garnishes, ensuring precision for a seamless mix.
- Anejo Tequila: 2 oz – We start with this aged tequila as the base, selected for its warm caramel notes and subtle spice that elevate the drink’s profile.
- Angostura Bitters: 2-3 dashes – Added next to balance the sweetness, these bitters introduce a hint of aromatic spice that complements the tequila’s depth.
- Sugar Cube or Simple Syrup: 1 sugar cube or 0.5 oz simple syrup – We use this to sweeten the mix; muddle the sugar cube if opting for that form to release flavors gradually.
- Orange Peel: 1 large strip – Prepared by peeling a fresh orange, we use this for a citrus twist that adds a bright, zesty aroma right before serving.
- Ice: As needed – We incorporate this last to chill and dilute the cocktail slightly, ensuring the flavors meld perfectly without over-diluting.
For the best results, we recommend using fresh, premium ingredients to capture the rich, inviting essence of this tequila-based favorite.
Tools and Equipment
To prepare our Anejo Old Fashioned with precision and ease, we rely on a few key tools that elevate the mixing process and ensure a perfectly balanced cocktail. These essentials help us handle the ingredients like Anejo tequila, bitters, and orange peel with professional flair, making home bartending both simple and sophisticated.
Essential Tools List
We organize our tools based on the sequence of use in crafting the cocktail, from measuring and muddling to stirring and serving. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
- Jigger or Measuring Cup: We use this for accurate measurements of liquids like the 2 oz of Anejo tequila and 0.5 oz of simple syrup. It ensures consistency every time, preventing overpouring that could dilute the warm caramel notes.
- Muddler: Essential for gently pressing the sugar cube or simple syrup with Angostura bitters in the glass. We recommend one with a wooden or stainless steel head to release flavors without bruising the ingredients excessively.
- Bar Spoon: Our go-to for stirring the mixture with ice. This long-handled tool allows us to blend the tequila, bitters, and citrus oils smoothly, maintaining the cocktail’s elegant texture.
- Y-Peeler or Paring Knife: We employ this to create a large strip of orange peel. A sharp Y-peeler delivers a clean, wide zest that infuses the drink with fresh citrus aroma without including any bitter pith.
- Old Fashioned Glass (Rocks Glass): Specifically designed for this cocktail, we serve our Anejo Old Fashioned in this sturdy, lowball glass. It holds about 8-10 oz, providing ample room for ice and garnishes while showcasing the drink’s rich, amber hues.
- Ice Bucket or Tray: Fresh ice is crucial to chill the cocktail without over-diluting it. We suggest using a standard ice tray for large cubes, as they melt slower and preserve the subtle spice of the Anejo tequila.
By gathering these tools, we set the stage for a seamless transition from ingredients to a flawless Anejo Old Fashioned experience.
Instructions
Now that we have gathered our premium ingredients and essential tools, let’s walk through the steps to create an exquisite Anejo Old Fashioned that highlights its warm caramel notes and subtle spice.
Prep
Before we mix our cocktail, we’ll prepare the elements to ensure a smooth process. Start by using your Y-peeler or paring knife to carefully remove a large strip of orange peel, about 2-3 inches long, making sure to avoid the bitter white pith for a bright citrus essence that complements the tequila’s richness. Next, place the sugar cube (or 0.5 oz simple syrup) in the bottom of your Old Fashioned glass, then add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters directly on top. Using the muddler, gently press the sugar and bitters together for about 10-15 seconds until the sugar begins to dissolve, releasing a fragrant aroma of spice and sweetness that sets the foundation for our drink.
Assemble
With our base prepped, we’ll now build the cocktail in the glass for a straightforward mix. Add 2 oz of Anejo tequila to the muddled mixture, then fill the glass about three-quarters full with fresh ice cubes to chill the ingredients without diluting the flavors too quickly. Grab your bar spoon and stir the contents steadily for 20-30 seconds, allowing the tequila’s smooth, caramel undertones to blend with the bitters and sugar, creating a harmonious balance that evokes the cocktail’s elegant warmth and depth.
Serve
Finally, to present our Anejo Old Fashioned with flair, express the oils from the orange peel by gently twisting it over the glass, then rub it along the rim for an added citrus burst. Drop the peel into the drink as a garnish and serve immediately in the chilled Old Fashioned glass, inviting a sensory experience of its velvety texture and spicy finish that makes it ideal for any occasion.
Conclusion
We hope this take on the Anejo Old Fashioned inspires your next gathering
or quiet evening at home. It’s a timeless twist that brings depth and elegance
to your cocktail repertoire.
Crafting it lets us savor premium spirits in a simple yet sophisticated way
so you’ll elevate your mixology skills with every sip. Cheers to new traditions!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Anejo Old Fashioned?
The Anejo Old Fashioned is a modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, swapping whiskey for aged tequila (Anejo). It features rich flavors like warm caramel and subtle spice, making it simple yet elegant. Perfect for entertaining or relaxing, it’s a sophisticated addition to any home bar.
What ingredients are needed for an Anejo Old Fashioned?
You’ll need 2 oz of Anejo tequila for its caramel notes and spice, 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters for balance, a sugar cube or 0.5 oz simple syrup for sweetness, and a large orange peel for citrus twist. Use fresh, high-quality ingredients to enhance the cocktail’s rich essence.
What tools are required to make an Anejo Old Fashioned?
Essential tools include a jigger for precise measurements, a muddler to press sugar and bitters, a bar spoon for stirring, a Y-peeler or paring knife for the orange peel, and an Old Fashioned glass for serving. Fresh ice is also key to chill without diluting flavors.
How do you prepare an Anejo Old Fashioned?
Start by muddling sugar and bitters in a glass. Add 2 oz Anejo tequila and ice, then stir to blend. Express oils from an orange peel over the drink and garnish. This creates a velvety, spicy cocktail that’s easy to make at home.
Why use Anejo tequila in an Anejo Old Fashioned?
Anejo tequila brings warm caramel notes and a hint of spice, elevating the classic Old Fashioned with its aged complexity. Unlike whiskey, it adds a unique tequila flavor that balances sweetness and bitters, making the cocktail more versatile for various tastes.
Is the Anejo Old Fashioned suitable for beginners?
Yes, it’s beginner-friendly due to its simple recipe and minimal ingredients. With just a few basic tools and steps, anyone can create it at home. Follow the instructions carefully for the best results, and it offers a rewarding introduction to cocktail making.