Old Fashioned Wedding Drinks Recipe – Classic Cocktail

Looking for the perfect signature cocktail to serve at your elegant, vintage-inspired celebration? The Old Fashioned Wedding Drinks Recipe is a timeless classic that brings sophistication, charm, and rich flavor to any event. With its origins dating back to the early 19th century, the Old Fashioned has earned its place as one of the most beloved and enduring cocktails in history.

• Save

This refined beverage combines whiskey or bourbon with a touch of sweetness, aromatic bitters, and a citrus twist, making it the ideal drink for wedding receptions, rehearsal dinners, or even bridal showers. The balance of robust spirit and subtle flavor elements complements both formal affairs and more laid-back gatherings. Whether you’re creating a DIY wedding bar or hiring a professional mixologist, this recipe will elevate your drink menu and leave a lasting impression on your guests.

Nutrition & Instructions

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Active Time: 5 minutes
• Resting Time: 0 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes
• Cuisine: American
• Course: Beverage, Cocktail
• Servings: 1
• Calories per Serving: ~150 kcal

Equipment

• Old fashioned (rocks) glass
• Jigger or shot glass for measuring
• Bar spoon or cocktail stirrer
• Muddler (optional)
• Ice (preferably a large cube)
• Citrus peeler or knife

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey (bourbon for a sweeter profile, rye for a spicier kick)
• 1 sugar cube (or ½ tsp simple syrup)
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 tsp water (if using sugar cube)
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Maraschino cherry (optional garnish)

• Save

Instructions

Step 1: Add Sugar and Bitters

Place the sugar cube in the bottom of the glass. Add the bitters and a splash of water. Muddle until the sugar is mostly dissolved. If you’re using simple syrup, combine it with the bitters directly.

Step 2: Add Whiskey

Pour 2 ounces of your chosen bourbon or rye whiskey into the glass. Stir gently to combine with the sugar and bitters mixture.

Step 3: Add Ice

Add a large ice cube or several smaller cubes to the glass. Stir again for about 20 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.

Step 4: Garnish and Serve

Twist the orange peel over the glass to release the essential oils, then rub it along the rim before dropping it in. Add a maraschino cherry if desired. Serve immediately.

Tips for Best Results

• Use Quality Whiskey – Since the Old Fashioned is a spirit-forward cocktail, using a good-quality bourbon or rye is essential.
• Large Ice Cubes Work Best – They melt slower, keeping your drink cold without watering it down.
• Customize to Taste – Adjust the sweetness by adding more or less sugar or syrup.
• Batch Option for Weddings – Multiply the recipe to create a batch for self-serve or bartender use. Keep the orange peel and cherries on the side for individual garnish.

Make It Wedding-Ready

Want to elevate your Old Fashioned for a wedding celebration? Here are a few ideas:

• His & Hers Versions: Serve a traditional bourbon Old Fashioned for him and a fruit-infused version (like cherry or blood orange) for her.
• Customized Glassware: Serve the drinks in monogrammed rocks glasses or glassware etched with the couple’s names and wedding date.
• Drink Station Setup: Create a rustic-chic drink station complete with vintage decanters, cocktail napkins, and florals.
• Mocktail Version: Replace the whiskey with brewed black tea or a non-alcoholic bourbon alternative for a zero-proof option.

Pairing Suggestions

The Old Fashioned pairs wonderfully with:

• Charcuterie boards and cheese platters
• Roasted meats and grilled entrees
• Dark chocolate desserts and rich cakes
• Candied nuts or spiced hors d’oeuvres

• Save

Variations

Here are a few creative spins on the classic recipe:

• Maple Old Fashioned: Swap the sugar for maple syrup for a rich, autumnal twist.
• Smoked Old Fashioned: Infuse the drink with smoke using a smoking gun or wood chips for dramatic flair.
• Fruit Infusions: Muddle in berries, apple slices, or cherries for added depth.

Conclusion

This Old Fashioned Wedding Drinks Recipe is the perfect blend of elegance, tradition, and flavor. Whether you’re serving guests during cocktail hour or offering it as your signature wedding drink, it’s a classy and crowd-pleasing choice. Its simple ingredients and customizable nature make it both versatile and easy to prepare. Add a touch of vintage charm to your big day with this iconic cocktail, and toast to love with style.

• Save

Ashley Doyle

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.