Old Overholt cocktail is a simple but elegant drink that showcases the flavor and character of rye whiskey. It is made with only three ingredients: rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. The drink has a rich and smooth taste, with hints of spice, sweetness, and bitterness. It is a perfect drink for any occasion, whether you want to relax after a long day, impress your guests, or enjoy a night out.
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History of the Old Overholt Cocktail
The Old Overholt cocktail is named after the Old Overholt rye whiskey, which is one of the oldest and most respected brands of American whiskey. The whiskey was founded in 1810 by Henry Oberholzer, a German immigrant who settled in Pennsylvania. He started distilling rye whiskey using his family’s recipe and soon gained a reputation for producing high-quality whiskey. The brand was passed down to his son Abraham Overholt, who changed the spelling of the name to Old Overholt and expanded the business. The whiskey became popular among many famous figures, such as George Washington, Andrew Carnegie, and John D. Rockefeller.
The cocktail itself was created in the late 1800s, during the golden age of cocktails. It was a variation of the Manhattan cocktail, which was made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. The Old Overholt cocktail used Old Overholt rye whiskey as the base spirit, giving it a distinctive flavor and aroma. The drink was served in a chilled cocktail glass and garnished with a cherry.
The Old Overholt cocktail was enjoyed by many drinkers throughout the 20th century, especially during the Prohibition era, when rye whiskey was one of the few spirits available. However, the popularity of rye whiskey declined after World War II, as bourbon and Scotch whisky became more fashionable. The Old Overholt cocktail also faded from the scene, as newer and more complex cocktails emerged.
However, in recent years, there has been a revival of interest in rye whiskey and classic cocktails. Old Overholt rye whiskey has been relaunched by Beam Suntory, with a new label and a higher proof. The Old Overholt cocktail has also been rediscovered by bartenders and drinkers who appreciate its simplicity and sophistication. The drink is now considered a timeless classic that can be enjoyed by anyone who loves whiskey.
Ingredients and Recipe for the Old Overholt Cocktail
The Old Overholt cocktail is easy to make and requires only three ingredients: Old Overholt rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. Here are the steps to follow:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
- Add 2 ounces of Old Overholt rye whiskey, 3/4 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 1 dash of Angostura bitters.
- Stir well until chilled and diluted.
- Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Tips and Variations for the Old Overholt Cocktail
The Old Overholt cocktail is a versatile drink that can be customized according to your preference and mood. Here are some tips and variations to try:
- You can use different brands of rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, or bitters to suit your taste. For example, you can use Rittenhouse or Bulleit rye whiskey instead of Old Overholt, Carpano Antica or Dolin Rouge vermouth instead of Martini & Rossi, or Peychaud’s or orange bitters instead of Angostura.
- You can also adjust the ratio of the ingredients to make your drink stronger or weaker, sweeter or drier. For example, you can use 2 1/2 ounces of rye whiskey and 1/2 ounce of vermouth for a more potent drink, or 1 1/2 ounces of rye whiskey and 1 ounce of vermouth for a lighter drink.
- You can also add some extra flavor or flair to your drink by using different garnishes or additions. For example, you can use an orange peel or a lemon twist instead of a cherry, or add a splash of club soda or ginger ale for some fizz.
Conclusion
The Old Overholt cocktail is a classic drink that celebrates the history and flavor of rye whiskey. It is made with only three ingredients: Old Overholt rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. The drink has a rich and smooth taste, with hints of spice, sweetness, and bitterness. It is a perfect drink for any occasion, whether you want to relax after a long day, impress your guests, or enjoy a night out.
We hope this blog post has given you some useful information and ideas on how to make and enjoy the Old Overholt cocktail.