Tequila Old Fashioned Recipe

Ingredients

• 4 maraschino cherries, stems removed, divided
• 1 orange slice
• 6 ice cubes (or more, if desired)
• 2 fluid ounces anejo tequila
• 1 fluid ounce Cointreau
• 3 dashes bitters
• 1 orange twist (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Place the orange slice and 2 cherries into a rocks glass. Use a muddler to gently crush them together to release the flavors.

Step 2: Add 6 ice cubes (or more if you prefer your drink colder) into the glass.

Step 3: Pour 2 fluid ounces of anejo tequila and 1 fluid ounce of Cointreau into the glass.

Step 4: Add 3 dashes of bitters to the mixture and stir thoroughly to combine the ingredients.

Step 5: Garnish the cocktail with the remaining 2 cherries and a twist of orange peel for an added citrus aroma.

Nutrition Facts

Calories	266
Total Fat	0g
Saturated Fat	0g
Cholesterol	0mg
Sodium	8mg
Total Carbohydrate	19g
Dietary Fiber	2g
Total Sugars	16g
Protein	1g
Vitamin C	22mg
Calcium	27mg
Iron	0mg
Potassium	132mg

Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. Amount is based on available nutrient data.

If you are following a medically restrictive diet, please consult your doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe for personal consumption.

Origin and History

The Tequila Old Fashioned is a modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned cocktail, which was originally crafted in the early 19th century in Louisville, Kentucky. Traditionally, the Old Fashioned is made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, but this variation swaps whiskey for tequila, offering a vibrant new take on the iconic drink. The use of tequila adds a smooth, earthy flavor that pairs beautifully with the sweetness of maraschino cherries and the citrusy notes of orange and bitters. As tequila has grown in popularity worldwide, mixologists have sought to explore how it can replace traditional spirits in classic cocktails, and the Tequila Old Fashioned is a perfect example of this innovation.

Regional Variations

The Tequila Old Fashioned is typically associated with Mexico and its rich heritage of tequila production. The countrys signature spirit, made from the blue agave plant, is often the base for a variety of cocktails. However, while the Old Fashioned itself is an American classic, the Tequila Old Fashioned bridges the cultural gap by incorporating elements from both Mexico and the United States. In some regions of Mexico, especially in tequila-producing areas such as Jalisco, local variations of the drink may include regional fruits or spices, but the essential elements of the cocktail remain the sametequila, bitters, orange, and cherries.

Difference from Similar Drinks

The Tequila Old Fashioned stands out from other tequila-based cocktails, such as the Margarita or Tequila Sunrise, by its emphasis on the spirit itself rather than sweet mixers. While the Margarita features lime juice and triple sec, and the Tequila Sunrise uses grenadine, the Tequila Old Fashioned emphasizes the tequilas bold, complex flavor. Additionally, the presence of bitters, a defining ingredient of the traditional Old Fashioned, gives this cocktail a sophisticated, slightly bitter edge that contrasts with the more syrupy-sweet nature of most other tequila drinks.

Where It's Typically Served

The Tequila Old Fashioned is often served in upscale bars and lounges, especially in cities known for their cocktail culture. In Mexico, its a popular choice in high-end restaurants and bars that emphasize local spirits like tequila and mezcal. The cocktail is typically served in a short rocks glass over ice, garnished with an orange twist and maraschino cherries. Its the kind of drink that suits intimate gatherings, whether youre at a fancy rooftop bar in New York City or a cozy cantina in Guadalajara.

Interesting Facts

• The Tequila Old Fashioned is a popular cocktail for those who want to enjoy tequila in a more refined and less sweet way.
• Unlike the classic Old Fashioned, which is traditionally made with bourbon or rye whiskey, the Tequila Old Fashioned is a great way to explore the complex flavors of aged tequila, such as aejo tequila, which offers a deeper, richer profile.
• The combination of maraschino cherries and orange adds a unique sweetness that balances the otherwise strong and bold flavor of the tequila.
• The Tequila Old Fashioned has become a popular choice in cocktail competitions for its balance of bold and subtle flavors, making it a standout drink for any mixologist.

FAQ about Tequila Old Fashioned Recipe