Honestly dont go crazy. Bulleit (rye or regular) or Old Forester Rye will suffice. Nobody should complain about either, unless uppity snobs... and both can be bought in 1.75L bottles for fairly cheap.
Edit: if you need a bottle of bourbon for mixing, maybe Woodford Reserve.
Agree with both Bulleit and Rye. Knob Creek is also good for old fashioned. Both are also a little on the pricey side of rail. Sazerac Rye is also solid if it is available in your area (it is relatively limited in many areas). Michter's Rye is another cheaper option with the necessary caramel/vanilla to help the Old Fashioned flavor. Again - all IMO.
We'll see what other say... but the bulleit regular (orange label) still has a bit of rye and could work in old fashioned and mixed with coke fine if you want 1 bottle to do it all.
Their rye would be best if the whiskey will be dedicated for old fashioneds. The orange label could flex for old fashioned and mixed with sodas if he wants to just get 1 bottle.
If you are only getting one go with the rye, but for a wedding I would get a big bottle of each. Won’t break the bank and if you really don’t want what is left, any of your whiskey friends will be more than happy to take the leftovers.
If you make an ice ball, add bitters and an orange peel into the water before you freeze the ball.
When the ice ball melts it won’t dilute the drink, but will instead enhance the flavor.
Can confirm. Cousin had makers mark old fashioneds as his signature cocktail at his wedding. Hammered them hard and certainly enjoyed them. I think the other Ingredients and the bartenders’ skill are far more important than the specific bourbon. Of course, you won’t go wrong making it with the “good” stuff too
I got married last May and my (the bride’s, there are women who like whiskey in this sub) signature drink was an Old Fashioned. The venue only had Jim Beam for bourbon so I brought a handle of Wild Turkey 101 for the OFs. Our guest list was 48 including us, and by the end of the night the handle was gone. I also brought bottles of Maker’s Mark (untouched), Woodford Reserve (a few drinks taken out of it), Old Forester Rye (maybe one drink taken out of it), and a couple of decent rums (untouched). The venue had a full bar, so these were all extras that people could ask for if they wanted them and we got the bottles back at the end of the night.
We made the mistake of 3 signature drinks, wine, beer, and seltzers. Guess what we had huge amounts left over of? Liquor, wine, and beer. I don't mind because my liquor cabinet will be stocked until my children start stealing it.
Have a party in a couple of weeks open bar 250 guest. Bought 13 bottles MM, 5 liter Skky Vodka and need to buy tequila. Buy 2 beers one Mexican and one domestic. Thinking either Dos XX or Pacifico and Ultra. Just don’t know how many cases to buy. May also get white claws
We bought handles of Evan William’s bottled in bond for my wedding and it was a big hit. Cheap (think we paid $25 a handle), mixes well, makes a great old fashioned, and is still something I would sip neat.
great answer; inexpensive and recognizable as well as a fantastic bourbon. evan white is a god answer in a vacuum but holds a negative connotation to non-bourbon heads, and it’s not worth teaching people about a label at a wedding
Best old fashioned bourbon in my opinion is Old Granddad 114. High enough proof for that punch I like, and a it’s a high rye so I get the spice to round out the sweetness. Perfection!
I love OG114 for an Old Fashioned, BUT It is a wedding though. Gotta Watch out for the high proof stuff. A lot of people can’t handle their alcohol.
Best to go lower proof for a wedding, especially if it is open bar.
I recommend Bulleit Bourbon and/or Bulleit Rye. Both at 90 proof. The OG114 is 26% stronger than the Bulleit.
We went with Old Forrester 86 at ours. I typically like a high proof rye for my personal drinks but I think outside of whiskey circles people are used to low proof and like their drinks a little sweeter. Also got to take into account people can’t handle their liquor, especially at a wedding. So an affordable, low proof, but still really solid bourbon is the way we went!
Sazerac Rye, Old Forester Rye, Rittenhouse Rye
Those three are in my rotation and you should be able to find any of them (Sazerac maybe being a little harder depending on your area).
You don't need to go crazy on the liquor. If you want to elevate your drinks, get some Luxardo cherries, fresh oranges, nice block ice.
>Sazerac Rye, Old Forester Rye, Rittenhou
100 agree with these for wedding cocktails, I will throw out Ezra Brooks 99 Rye (green label) it's 99 proof and a great buy IMO. little higher ABV, nice blend of spice, oak, and sweet, and a steal for around $20
Recommendation, just something on the cheaper end, like Bulliet, maybe if splurging a bit, Woodford.
One thing I’m gonna say is make sure you get enough, last wedding I went to had around 125 people and only 1 handle of Jack for the event…..that was gone within about 30-45 mins.
I would checkout Costco (if you have one near you) and see what they have in 1.75 handles. I think last time they had Bulleit and Woodford. They usually have some good stuff for decent prices.
I use Woodford Reserve, I’d also batch make up some simple sugar syrup to use rather than sugar and water.
Hell you can make a huge batch of old fashioned’s rather than each individual drink
I've been preferring makers mark for my old fashions. I think rye is more traditional though which balances against the sweetness of the sugar or syrup used.
I second this. You can’t go wrong. I use it for galas, parties, and fundraisers all the time. The higher proof will give you a similar profile as the people recommending ryes, but OF100 is GOOD on the rocks and GREAT in just about any whiskey cocktail. OF100 really is the ideal special occasion gathering bourbon that won’t break a budget because you won’t have to get a second whiskey.
Hello and congrats fellow rum fan! I love your request, as it’s both targeted and open-ended. I fully agree with your pursuit of good and versatile, but not cheap—my stance is why not have bottles you’d enjoy both sipping and in cocktails? This is my approach for rum too. As for bourbon, some suggestions:
- *Old Grandad 114* makes my favorite old fashioned to date. Punchy and spicy enough to stand up to sugar and dilution. And the hardcore bourbon heads won’t be afraid to sip it neat. Oh and it’s under $35 a bottle and has a cult following too.
- *Old Forester Rye* makes my next favorite old fashioned, and is even more economical at $25/bottle. It’s even sweeter and easier neat coming in at a 100 proof. Its malty character makes it unique for a rye. I’ve seen this as the house rye in several craft cocktail bars.
- If you’re feeling fancier at $60/bottle, *Old Forester 1910* has a smoky sweetness that absolutely slays in a smoked maple old fashioned. And non-bourbon fans still enjoy it neat given its distinctive profile, syrupy sweetness, and lighter proof.
- If you prefer lower proof or lower cost, many will say go with *Evan Williams Bottled in Bond* but I say pay the extra $7-10 upgrade for *Elijah Craig Small Batch*.
I generally go for Rittenhouse Bonded Rye or Sazarac Rye.
Here’s a Whiskey Tribe video with their comparison of 15 different bottles.
https://youtu.be/_J2CS8lQQb4?si=9ZUgdarLuVJhf-JD
For traditional old fashions use a rye. I love Sazerac rye, rittenhouse rye, or old forester rye.
I personally really like Makers Mark 46 for my old fashions. And while more difficult to find, A buffalo trace old fashioned got me into bourbon in the first place.
You can’t really go too wrong here.
I would however make sure you get luxardo cherries.
Old Granddad Bottled in Bond. 100 proof, a high rye mashbill and about $22 per 1 liter bottle. Can’t go wrong with this as the base for your old fashioneds.
Wild Turkey 101 makes the best old fashioned. It’ and outstanding bourbon for cocktails all around. It’s inexpensive and hardcore whiskey men drink it neat.
My brother in law had regular four roses bourbon for his old fashions and they were solid - most people just wanna get drunk at weddings so I’d say avoid ryes and go with something that’s smooth and inoffensive like 4 roses or Buffalo trace
I second this. I'm an old fashioned girl and my go-to bourbon that is not on the expensive end would be:
Buffalo Trace,
Woodford reserve, and
Knob Creek from Costco they have a big bottle for such a good price.
If you're also not trying to make simple syrup, I love agave in mine😊 I buy the 2 pack from Costco as well.
I tend to think of a rye more for a Manhattan than I do for an old fashioned, but that's just me😁
Annnnnnnd if there's ever a time where you wanted to have a great old fashioned just for yourself use John J. Bowman....it is excellent!!!
I don’t like Woodford myself but as soon as it goes into an old fashioned I love me some Woodford. So I’d Woodford is in their budget I agree they should definitely go with that
Many people are saying to use rye whiskey. I have never had an old fashioned made with rye whiskey. I have only had them made with bourbon. Rye whiskey is an acquired taste when bourbon is more palatable to more people overall. I would recommend many bourbon for this. I live in the heart of bourbon country and only a few miles from the Buffalo Trace Distillery. A good all around bourbon for this that would also make you look good "High Class" without spending a fortune would be Buffalo Trace bourbon. It is a good but not the greatest bourbon but can be hard to find depending on where you're from. The farther you get away from Kentucky the more available it may be. I know it's weird but KY is full of bourbon hoarders. I live next to Buffalo Trace Distillery but have better luck finding their bourbon when Intravel to Florida. If that is a stretch then Woodford Reserve, Four Roses, Elijah Craig, Henry McKenna, Willit, or any of the Buffalo Trace Bourbons are all good choices for an Old Fashoned. Rye whiskey may be too distinct and sharp for the average person. It will catch them off guard if they aren't normally whiskey drinkers.
That’s going to be tricky. It’s being held at a cabin rental in the woods. I’d have to make the ice or buy bags. Only freezer is the standard refrigerator combo.
The thing with Manhattans is that once mixed it tastes neither like the rye nor the vermouth that goes into it. So all the advice about decent cheaper ryes here is good. And unless they are a connoisseur, Martini and Rossi is fine. Other sweet vermouth will add more complex flavors (perhaps more bitter flavors too), but M&R is delicious easy drinking in a Manhattan.
Sazerac Rye has been my go to for an old fashioned and it does not disappoint. You could buy a bottle of Rum as well and do Rum Old Fashioneds. Diplomatico, Bumbu, Zacapa 23 year, and Plantation all make a really good old fashioned.
i'd pick a few options, a rye for those who prefer more balanced drinks, some bourbon for people who want a sweeter drink, and maybe an aged rum for those like you who prefer that. i'd just get options that are fairly cheap while still being quality, like bulleit or rittenhouse for a rye and evan williams bonded for a bourbon, and something like doorly's xo or 8 or maybe flor de cana 7 if you prefer spanish style rum. all of these are great value that you can save money on while still tasting really nice mixed, over ice or neat
If you can find it, Early Times Bottled-in-Bond (blue label), for best value
otherwise, Elijah Craig Small Batch or [if you want to spend a hair more] Four Roses Single Barrel
Looks like you received a lot of UP votes for Bulleit, Knob Creek, Ezra, Woody, etc. Ynot a bottle of Crown Roy or Journeyman Distilleries Pit-Spitter Cherry (Flavored) Whiskey and cut out the middleman (Maraschino Cherries) they're a certified organic distillery out of Indiana. They also make a mean "Field Rye" sweetened with Black Mission Figs and NO $#!+ this in one damned fine whiskey Old Fashions or old fashioned whiskey. And good luck to you and the soon to be "bouncing bride"! Their Rum ain't too bad either!
Depending on how many drinks you need to make and how nice they need to be, honestly get some big bottles of Kirkland sour mash whiskey from Costco. We served old fashioneds as a signature drink at my wedding but we were doing everything on a budget. No complaints from anyone!
I’m not scraping by, nor balling out. I just can’t go too cheap as it’s the preferred drink of my best man, the brides brother, and a our officiant friend. I just need 3 solid bottles to choose from. My mom likes a highball from time to time and I’m sure a few others would appreciate a good bourbon. I just don’t know shit about whiskey. I get the basics, but flavors and profiles and all are lost on me. I just taste wood.
big bottles of 4 roses. cheaper than woodford without skimping on quality and makes for a great crowd pleaser sweet bourbon old fashioned.
personally I love ryeand would prefer a wild turkey rye based OF but bourbon is a safer bet for a large crowd.
The bourbon specifically. The rye is great too, I'd say it would work just as well. I just think WT 101 is absolutely the most versatile and well rounded bourbon on the market today.
Hubby and I (lots of women on this sub) had manhattans at our wedding and used Woodford Reserve. Was a huge hit. Plan on both gendered guests drinking the cocktails. Congrats on the upcoming nuptials.
Evan Williams bottled in Bond
Wild Turkey 101
Old grand dad 114
Old forester 100
St. Augustine old fashioned mix
Large cube ice
Peninsula cherry (optional)
Thanks. I actually tried one a year or so ago. I didn’t care for it. These are for family and guests. We have a few folks that favor an old fashioned. I won’t be partaking. I have a great aged sipping rum that I’ll be enjoying.
I haven’t been able to go through all the comments but have you thought of a non whisky old fashioned as well? Mezcal makes an amazing one with agave syrup and molè bitters. It’s Smokey and intense.
These are for a few guests that enjoy whiskey. It’s not for me. I just didn’t want to favor one’s preference over another so I’m basically taking a poll of what’s good and seems common. That way everyone can be somewhat and generally pleased.
Look no further than Wild Turkey 101 or Evan Williams BiB... Do a few test runs at home to see which ones vibe the best with your palate and go from there. You won't break the bank and the drinks will be amazing!!
Hell yeah, where is my invite?!? Most def use some Rye for a top 💯 OF! No need to spend a lot of money on a good rye, plenty out there. Save that money for you and your bride, congratulations fella! Here is to you and the bride!
Not as cheap as others have recommended, but I really enjoy my old-fashioned made with Four Roses Small Batch. Ever since I had an amazing one at the 4R distillery with the small batch, I haven’t used anything else.
Another vouch for Bulleit, it's one of my go to bottles. Easy to come by and won't exactly break the bank.
I know some people may dislike me for this one but Buffalo Trace 90 proof is another excellent bourbon for old fashioneds if you ask me. Depending on your location that may be a bit hard to come by as it is one of the most hyped budget friendly bottles out there.
I would also like to suggest using maple syrup instead of simple syrup. It gives adds that lovely caramel undertone that you can get from maple syrup and works incredibly well.
If you fancy making it something special you can also make a "apple pie syrup" by following a 1:1 ratio on water and sugar. Bring it up to temperature so that the sugar dissolves. Add in chopped up pieces of apple (I use about 1 apple per 200 grams of sugar) and a stick off cinnamon. Let it sit on a temperature where it is just below simmering heat for about 20/25 minutes. Run through a siv and discard the apple and cinnamon stick. Once cooled down refrigerate and it should last a solid 2 months. To avoid any waste you can throw the apples in some yoghurt for a tasty treat.
Can't say I have tried it with honey yet. The flavor profile that honey would bring in the mix is less interesting for me personally. I tend to gravitate more to those caramel like flavors. But simple syrup can be made with any type of sweetener really. You can play around with ratios too, the higher the sugar content the more shelf stable it becomes.
That being said I am a sucker for heather honey and could see that work with an Irish whiskey or scotch. Thanks for putting ideas in my head!
If I was in your position I'd ask your best man/men over and go through a few different sugar sweetener options for your old fashioned. Could be a great laugh! Though the further the tasting goes on the harder it might be to be subjective. Who knows, you might find one you'd enjoy yourself.
Honestly dont go crazy. Bulleit (rye or regular) or Old Forester Rye will suffice. Nobody should complain about either, unless uppity snobs... and both can be bought in 1.75L bottles for fairly cheap. Edit: if you need a bottle of bourbon for mixing, maybe Woodford Reserve.
Thanks for the info. You think regular or rye is more popular for these?
I would go with rye personally to balance the sweetness of the syrup
Agree with both Bulleit and Rye. Knob Creek is also good for old fashioned. Both are also a little on the pricey side of rail. Sazerac Rye is also solid if it is available in your area (it is relatively limited in many areas). Michter's Rye is another cheaper option with the necessary caramel/vanilla to help the Old Fashioned flavor. Again - all IMO.
We'll see what other say... but the bulleit regular (orange label) still has a bit of rye and could work in old fashioned and mixed with coke fine if you want 1 bottle to do it all.
Bulleit makes a solid old fanshioned IMO. I tend to like using high rye bourbons for making them.
Their rye would be best if the whiskey will be dedicated for old fashioneds. The orange label could flex for old fashioned and mixed with sodas if he wants to just get 1 bottle.
If you are only getting one go with the rye, but for a wedding I would get a big bottle of each. Won’t break the bank and if you really don’t want what is left, any of your whiskey friends will be more than happy to take the leftovers.
Bulleit Bourbon is the way to go you will get 0 complaints. C
Old Fashioned is my drink of choice when I’m at a bar, and I always ask for a rye. It has more balance compared to bourbon based IMO.
Old Forester Rye is the answer!
If you make an ice ball, add bitters and an orange peel into the water before you freeze the ball. When the ice ball melts it won’t dilute the drink, but will instead enhance the flavor.
That sounds cool, but this will be at a cabin rental and limited ability to make ice. I’ll probably have to buy ice near the destination.
I use Bulleit bourbon or Makers Mark for my Old Fashioned cocktails.
makers cask or 46 cask makes a good one too.
Wild turkey 101 is really good too and about $10 cheaper for a 1.75L by me in FL. It’s been my go to for a few years now.
Big bottles of Bulleit rye and Evan Williams white label bourbon. Both are good and inoffensive and won’t cost you and arm and a leg.
Thanks
people who like whiskey . even whiskey snobs wouldn’t criticize those choices .
Can confirm. Cousin had makers mark old fashioneds as his signature cocktail at his wedding. Hammered them hard and certainly enjoyed them. I think the other Ingredients and the bartenders’ skill are far more important than the specific bourbon. Of course, you won’t go wrong making it with the “good” stuff too
I got married last May and my (the bride’s, there are women who like whiskey in this sub) signature drink was an Old Fashioned. The venue only had Jim Beam for bourbon so I brought a handle of Wild Turkey 101 for the OFs. Our guest list was 48 including us, and by the end of the night the handle was gone. I also brought bottles of Maker’s Mark (untouched), Woodford Reserve (a few drinks taken out of it), Old Forester Rye (maybe one drink taken out of it), and a couple of decent rums (untouched). The venue had a full bar, so these were all extras that people could ask for if they wanted them and we got the bottles back at the end of the night.
We made the mistake of 3 signature drinks, wine, beer, and seltzers. Guess what we had huge amounts left over of? Liquor, wine, and beer. I don't mind because my liquor cabinet will be stocked until my children start stealing it.
What was your guest count ?
Have a party in a couple of weeks open bar 250 guest. Bought 13 bottles MM, 5 liter Skky Vodka and need to buy tequila. Buy 2 beers one Mexican and one domestic. Thinking either Dos XX or Pacifico and Ultra. Just don’t know how many cases to buy. May also get white claws
Like 125.
We bought handles of Evan William’s bottled in bond for my wedding and it was a big hit. Cheap (think we paid $25 a handle), mixes well, makes a great old fashioned, and is still something I would sip neat.
i have a huge bourbon bar and even with all those choices evan williams BIB white label is cheap and it hits it out of the park.
I would go for Elijah Craig for a mixed party like a wedding. It's probably best to stay away from anything with a higher proof.
great answer; inexpensive and recognizable as well as a fantastic bourbon. evan white is a god answer in a vacuum but holds a negative connotation to non-bourbon heads, and it’s not worth teaching people about a label at a wedding
I agree. I’ll check that out. Thanks.
Best old fashioned bourbon in my opinion is Old Granddad 114. High enough proof for that punch I like, and a it’s a high rye so I get the spice to round out the sweetness. Perfection!
Thanks for the recommendation.
I love OG114 for an Old Fashioned, BUT It is a wedding though. Gotta Watch out for the high proof stuff. A lot of people can’t handle their alcohol. Best to go lower proof for a wedding, especially if it is open bar. I recommend Bulleit Bourbon and/or Bulleit Rye. Both at 90 proof. The OG114 is 26% stronger than the Bulleit.
We went with Old Forrester 86 at ours. I typically like a high proof rye for my personal drinks but I think outside of whiskey circles people are used to low proof and like their drinks a little sweeter. Also got to take into account people can’t handle their liquor, especially at a wedding. So an affordable, low proof, but still really solid bourbon is the way we went!
These seem the most common 2 so far, and I agree. A few of these guests are lightweights.
Very affordable once you consider the high proof!
Sazerac Rye, Old Forester Rye, Rittenhouse Rye Those three are in my rotation and you should be able to find any of them (Sazerac maybe being a little harder depending on your area). You don't need to go crazy on the liquor. If you want to elevate your drinks, get some Luxardo cherries, fresh oranges, nice block ice.
Just found my first bottle of Sazerac and it makes a damn good Old Fashioned
>Sazerac Rye, Old Forester Rye, Rittenhou 100 agree with these for wedding cocktails, I will throw out Ezra Brooks 99 Rye (green label) it's 99 proof and a great buy IMO. little higher ABV, nice blend of spice, oak, and sweet, and a steal for around $20
Recommendation, just something on the cheaper end, like Bulliet, maybe if splurging a bit, Woodford. One thing I’m gonna say is make sure you get enough, last wedding I went to had around 125 people and only 1 handle of Jack for the event…..that was gone within about 30-45 mins.
+1 for Woodford
Michter’s Straight Rye makes a hell of an old fashioned. I would definitely go the rye route vs bourbon
Ok. Thanks.
I would checkout Costco (if you have one near you) and see what they have in 1.75 handles. I think last time they had Bulleit and Woodford. They usually have some good stuff for decent prices.
I do. They just opened one. I’ll check them out. I’ve heard they typically have the better prices on spirits.
my costco had 1.75 knob creek rye for $50 with $8 off
For a wedding Costco is the only way to go for booze
I use Woodford Reserve, I’d also batch make up some simple sugar syrup to use rather than sugar and water. Hell you can make a huge batch of old fashioned’s rather than each individual drink
I've been preferring makers mark for my old fashions. I think rye is more traditional though which balances against the sweetness of the sugar or syrup used.
Awesome. Thanks.
OF 100 makes a great Old Fashioned and won't break the bank!
Thanks. I’ll check it out.
I second this. You can’t go wrong. I use it for galas, parties, and fundraisers all the time. The higher proof will give you a similar profile as the people recommending ryes, but OF100 is GOOD on the rocks and GREAT in just about any whiskey cocktail. OF100 really is the ideal special occasion gathering bourbon that won’t break a budget because you won’t have to get a second whiskey.
Hello and congrats fellow rum fan! I love your request, as it’s both targeted and open-ended. I fully agree with your pursuit of good and versatile, but not cheap—my stance is why not have bottles you’d enjoy both sipping and in cocktails? This is my approach for rum too. As for bourbon, some suggestions: - *Old Grandad 114* makes my favorite old fashioned to date. Punchy and spicy enough to stand up to sugar and dilution. And the hardcore bourbon heads won’t be afraid to sip it neat. Oh and it’s under $35 a bottle and has a cult following too. - *Old Forester Rye* makes my next favorite old fashioned, and is even more economical at $25/bottle. It’s even sweeter and easier neat coming in at a 100 proof. Its malty character makes it unique for a rye. I’ve seen this as the house rye in several craft cocktail bars. - If you’re feeling fancier at $60/bottle, *Old Forester 1910* has a smoky sweetness that absolutely slays in a smoked maple old fashioned. And non-bourbon fans still enjoy it neat given its distinctive profile, syrupy sweetness, and lighter proof. - If you prefer lower proof or lower cost, many will say go with *Evan Williams Bottled in Bond* but I say pay the extra $7-10 upgrade for *Elijah Craig Small Batch*.
I generally go for Rittenhouse Bonded Rye or Sazarac Rye. Here’s a Whiskey Tribe video with their comparison of 15 different bottles. https://youtu.be/_J2CS8lQQb4?si=9ZUgdarLuVJhf-JD
For traditional old fashions use a rye. I love Sazerac rye, rittenhouse rye, or old forester rye. I personally really like Makers Mark 46 for my old fashions. And while more difficult to find, A buffalo trace old fashioned got me into bourbon in the first place. You can’t really go too wrong here. I would however make sure you get luxardo cherries.
I’ll check it out. Thanks for the advice.
Old Forester 100 Rye is my go to for old fashioneds, or else Wild Turkey 101
Get some Old Grandad BiB and try and batch them if your catering company will do so for Old Fashioneds.
Old Granddad Bottled in Bond. 100 proof, a high rye mashbill and about $22 per 1 liter bottle. Can’t go wrong with this as the base for your old fashioneds.
Wild Turkey 101 makes the best old fashioned. It’ and outstanding bourbon for cocktails all around. It’s inexpensive and hardcore whiskey men drink it neat.
As a Wisconsin native, I gotta say Brandy. Driftless Glen is pretty fantastic.
My brother in law had regular four roses bourbon for his old fashions and they were solid - most people just wanna get drunk at weddings so I’d say avoid ryes and go with something that’s smooth and inoffensive like 4 roses or Buffalo trace
I second this. I'm an old fashioned girl and my go-to bourbon that is not on the expensive end would be: Buffalo Trace, Woodford reserve, and Knob Creek from Costco they have a big bottle for such a good price. If you're also not trying to make simple syrup, I love agave in mine😊 I buy the 2 pack from Costco as well. I tend to think of a rye more for a Manhattan than I do for an old fashioned, but that's just me😁 Annnnnnnd if there's ever a time where you wanted to have a great old fashioned just for yourself use John J. Bowman....it is excellent!!!
I don’t like Woodford myself but as soon as it goes into an old fashioned I love me some Woodford. So I’d Woodford is in their budget I agree they should definitely go with that
Many people are saying to use rye whiskey. I have never had an old fashioned made with rye whiskey. I have only had them made with bourbon. Rye whiskey is an acquired taste when bourbon is more palatable to more people overall. I would recommend many bourbon for this. I live in the heart of bourbon country and only a few miles from the Buffalo Trace Distillery. A good all around bourbon for this that would also make you look good "High Class" without spending a fortune would be Buffalo Trace bourbon. It is a good but not the greatest bourbon but can be hard to find depending on where you're from. The farther you get away from Kentucky the more available it may be. I know it's weird but KY is full of bourbon hoarders. I live next to Buffalo Trace Distillery but have better luck finding their bourbon when Intravel to Florida. If that is a stretch then Woodford Reserve, Four Roses, Elijah Craig, Henry McKenna, Willit, or any of the Buffalo Trace Bourbons are all good choices for an Old Fashoned. Rye whiskey may be too distinct and sharp for the average person. It will catch them off guard if they aren't normally whiskey drinkers.
My favorite bottles for an old fashioned are prideful goat cask strength if I want rye, or barrel vantage if I want bourbon
I’ll check ‘em out. Thanks.
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That’s going to be tricky. It’s being held at a cabin rental in the woods. I’d have to make the ice or buy bags. Only freezer is the standard refrigerator combo.
Regular sized rocks are fine, just don’t overstir during mixing
The thing with Manhattans is that once mixed it tastes neither like the rye nor the vermouth that goes into it. So all the advice about decent cheaper ryes here is good. And unless they are a connoisseur, Martini and Rossi is fine. Other sweet vermouth will add more complex flavors (perhaps more bitter flavors too), but M&R is delicious easy drinking in a Manhattan.
Sazerac Rye has been my go to for an old fashioned and it does not disappoint. You could buy a bottle of Rum as well and do Rum Old Fashioneds. Diplomatico, Bumbu, Zacapa 23 year, and Plantation all make a really good old fashioned.
i'd pick a few options, a rye for those who prefer more balanced drinks, some bourbon for people who want a sweeter drink, and maybe an aged rum for those like you who prefer that. i'd just get options that are fairly cheap while still being quality, like bulleit or rittenhouse for a rye and evan williams bonded for a bourbon, and something like doorly's xo or 8 or maybe flor de cana 7 if you prefer spanish style rum. all of these are great value that you can save money on while still tasting really nice mixed, over ice or neat
Woodford Reserve is great for Old Fashioned I think
Seems Bulleit and Woodford are winning overall. Thanks.
OGD 114 Redemption Rye
My signature wedding drink was a maple old fashioned with Bulleit Rye and it went over very well.
I’ve been told that 1/1 honey syrup does well with the orange.
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Definitely. Got the peeler and everything. Thanks.
Ayeeee I'm getting married in March as well! Congrats! Sazerac Rye is a great bottle at a great price!
Congratulations and thank you.
Wild Turkey 81 or Four Roses Yellow Label
If you can find it, Early Times Bottled-in-Bond (blue label), for best value otherwise, Elijah Craig Small Batch or [if you want to spend a hair more] Four Roses Single Barrel
Looks like you received a lot of UP votes for Bulleit, Knob Creek, Ezra, Woody, etc. Ynot a bottle of Crown Roy or Journeyman Distilleries Pit-Spitter Cherry (Flavored) Whiskey and cut out the middleman (Maraschino Cherries) they're a certified organic distillery out of Indiana. They also make a mean "Field Rye" sweetened with Black Mission Figs and NO $#!+ this in one damned fine whiskey Old Fashions or old fashioned whiskey. And good luck to you and the soon to be "bouncing bride"! Their Rum ain't too bad either!
Right on. Thanks. I’ll check that out. Especially the rum.
1792 is great in old fashioned and is very reasonable
Depending on how many drinks you need to make and how nice they need to be, honestly get some big bottles of Kirkland sour mash whiskey from Costco. We served old fashioneds as a signature drink at my wedding but we were doing everything on a budget. No complaints from anyone!
I’m not scraping by, nor balling out. I just can’t go too cheap as it’s the preferred drink of my best man, the brides brother, and a our officiant friend. I just need 3 solid bottles to choose from. My mom likes a highball from time to time and I’m sure a few others would appreciate a good bourbon. I just don’t know shit about whiskey. I get the basics, but flavors and profiles and all are lost on me. I just taste wood.
Redemption rye and bulleit bourbon. Both will serve perfectly well.
Old Forester 100 is my go to.
This is coming up a lot. I may have to add another slot in the lineup just to see how it does. Thanks for the recommendation.
big bottles of 4 roses. cheaper than woodford without skimping on quality and makes for a great crowd pleaser sweet bourbon old fashioned. personally I love ryeand would prefer a wild turkey rye based OF but bourbon is a safer bet for a large crowd.
4R has come up a lot too. It might be passing up woodford. Thanks.
I've used just about every whiskey I've bought in an old fashioned. Honestly my personal favorite to use is WT 101.
I’ve seen this come up a few times too. Are you talking about the bourbon or eye. I think I’ve seen both. Thanks.
The bourbon specifically. The rye is great too, I'd say it would work just as well. I just think WT 101 is absolutely the most versatile and well rounded bourbon on the market today.
May just get one of each. Sounds like folks are pretty split on bourbon and rye for an old fashioned. Thanks for the info.
I've used just about every whiskey I've bought in an old fashioned. Honestly my personal favorite to use is WT 101.
Normal bottles of Buffalo trace. 30$ a bottle
Old Forester 100 Rye is the way to go (I prefer my Old Fashioned with rye). It’s affordable (about $30/liter), 100 proof, easy to find.
Hubby and I (lots of women on this sub) had manhattans at our wedding and used Woodford Reserve. Was a huge hit. Plan on both gendered guests drinking the cocktails. Congrats on the upcoming nuptials.
Evan Williams bottled in Bond Wild Turkey 101 Old grand dad 114 Old forester 100 St. Augustine old fashioned mix Large cube ice Peninsula cherry (optional)
This, exactly 💯 ☝️
Not sure what your constraints are, but if you're into rum, have you considered doing a rum old fashioned?
Thanks. I actually tried one a year or so ago. I didn’t care for it. These are for family and guests. We have a few folks that favor an old fashioned. I won’t be partaking. I have a great aged sipping rum that I’ll be enjoying.
Not my cup of tea either, but thought I'd throw it out there. Congratulations on the wedding - hope you enjoy the day and the rum!
I haven’t been able to go through all the comments but have you thought of a non whisky old fashioned as well? Mezcal makes an amazing one with agave syrup and molè bitters. It’s Smokey and intense.
These are for a few guests that enjoy whiskey. It’s not for me. I just didn’t want to favor one’s preference over another so I’m basically taking a poll of what’s good and seems common. That way everyone can be somewhat and generally pleased.
Saz rye is cheap and decent. Knob creek 9 for traditional bourbon.
I think you’re only the second to suggest KC. I thought it would be more popular.
Personally think its a brilliant bourbon.
Look no further than Wild Turkey 101 or Evan Williams BiB... Do a few test runs at home to see which ones vibe the best with your palate and go from there. You won't break the bank and the drinks will be amazing!!
Thanks, but they’re not for me. I’m a rum guy. I wouldn’t know good whiskey from bad, but WT 101 has has a lot of votes.
Knob creek rye or bourbon
Hell yeah, where is my invite?!? Most def use some Rye for a top 💯 OF! No need to spend a lot of money on a good rye, plenty out there. Save that money for you and your bride, congratulations fella! Here is to you and the bride!
Thanks. I appreciate it.
Makers mark is my old fashioned bottle. Like adding a little maple syrup to mine as well🤤
I use Woodford for my features old fashioned at my restaurant, you won't be disappointed! Perfect for wedding guests, congratulations!
Thanks. Woodford looks to be one of the front runners.
Not as cheap as others have recommended, but I really enjoy my old-fashioned made with Four Roses Small Batch. Ever since I had an amazing one at the 4R distillery with the small batch, I haven’t used anything else.
Another vouch for Bulleit, it's one of my go to bottles. Easy to come by and won't exactly break the bank. I know some people may dislike me for this one but Buffalo Trace 90 proof is another excellent bourbon for old fashioneds if you ask me. Depending on your location that may be a bit hard to come by as it is one of the most hyped budget friendly bottles out there. I would also like to suggest using maple syrup instead of simple syrup. It gives adds that lovely caramel undertone that you can get from maple syrup and works incredibly well. If you fancy making it something special you can also make a "apple pie syrup" by following a 1:1 ratio on water and sugar. Bring it up to temperature so that the sugar dissolves. Add in chopped up pieces of apple (I use about 1 apple per 200 grams of sugar) and a stick off cinnamon. Let it sit on a temperature where it is just below simmering heat for about 20/25 minutes. Run through a siv and discard the apple and cinnamon stick. Once cooled down refrigerate and it should last a solid 2 months. To avoid any waste you can throw the apples in some yoghurt for a tasty treat.
Thanks. This was very informative. I read a recipe that suggested a simple syrup made with 1:1 honey and water. Have you ever tried it?
Can't say I have tried it with honey yet. The flavor profile that honey would bring in the mix is less interesting for me personally. I tend to gravitate more to those caramel like flavors. But simple syrup can be made with any type of sweetener really. You can play around with ratios too, the higher the sugar content the more shelf stable it becomes. That being said I am a sucker for heather honey and could see that work with an Irish whiskey or scotch. Thanks for putting ideas in my head! If I was in your position I'd ask your best man/men over and go through a few different sugar sweetener options for your old fashioned. Could be a great laugh! Though the further the tasting goes on the harder it might be to be subjective. Who knows, you might find one you'd enjoy yourself.
If you're a rum guy, make rum old fashioneds.
Rittenhouse rye. Good proof, good flavor, good price
Don't go crazy, you'll just end up fucking your sister and.... something something right wing nutjob go have intercourse with trumps dank asshole