Brandy Old Fashioned

Before the Great French Wine Blight in the late 19th century (when aphids destroyed much of France’s grapes) rum and Cognac reigned supreme in American bars—not whiskey. Drinks like the Mint Julep and the Old Fashioned (which was more of a New Fashioned at the time) were served with a healthy measure of French Cognac. To replicate the original cocktail (which, oddly enough, is still the most common way to make the drink in Wisconsin), we created this recipe. Made with brandy (or Cognac), a rich simple syrup (or a gomme syrup), and Angostura bitters, this classic cocktail is regal, rich and decadently delicious. For the best results, we recommend using an overproof Cognac like Louis Royer Force 53, a higher end Cognac like Hine, or any craft, American brandy like Copper & King.