A Gin-Led Revival of a Timeless Classic

Few cocktails carry the cultural weight of the Old Fashioned. Traditionally anchored in whiskey, it has long served as a benchmark of refinement for drinkers who value subtlety, balance, and ritual. Yet for gin connoisseurs, this iconic drink offers an unexpected opportunity: a reinvention that swaps brooding depth for clarity, structure, and botanical expression. With the right bottle, the Old Fashioned becomes something bright and contemporary while still honouring its roots in classic gin cocktails.

Though the Old Fashioned traces its lineage to the early 19th century, when spirits, sugar, water, and bitters formed the backbone of “improved” cocktails, its evolution has never really stopped. Early references appear in 1806 American publications, but the version we recognise today began crystallising by the late 1800s, as bartenders in New York and Chicago refined the template. As gin gained momentum through the golden age of mixology, experimental bartenders discovered that the Old Fashioned’s structure worked beautifully with lighter, botanical spirits—setting the stage for the modern gin variation we celebrate today.

Ingredients & Why They Matter

For the Mekong Gin Society, this version is best built on a bold, flavour-forward spirit—one that carries enough structure to replace whiskey without losing presence. A recommended option is Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin, a robust, citrus-forward gin whose botanical profile stands up beautifully against bitters and sugar.

Ingredients (per cocktail):

• 50 ml (1.7 oz) Ki No Bi Kyoto Dry Gin

• 10 ml (0.33 oz) rich simple syrup (2:1)

• 2 dashes aromatic bitters

• 1 dash orange bitters

• Large-format clear ice cube

• Orange peel (expressed), optional lemon twist

Why these choices work:
The richer syrup softens the sharper edges of a dry gin, creating the “silky” weight an Old Fashioned demands. The combination of aromatic and orange bitters locks in the classic structure while allowing citrus to frame the gin’s yuzu, ginger, and leafy notes. This keeps the drink anchored but modern—an ideal fit for enthusiasts who value balanced stirred drinks.

Service, Method & Presentation

A gin Old Fashioned rewards precision. Add the gin, syrup, and bitters to a chilled mixing glass filled with dense ice. Stir gently for 20–25 seconds, aiming for slight dilution rather than aeration—this is a drink that should glide rather than sparkle. Strain over a large-format ice cube into a heavy-bottomed Old Fashioned glass.

Now comes the sensory moment: express a strip of orange peel across the surface, letting its oils bloom into a fragrant halo before resting it on the rim. For those who enjoy a sharper contrast, a thin lemon twist adds a brighter top note. This garnish ritual is more than decoration—it’s an essential layer of craft cocktail garnishes that shapes both aroma and mouthfeel.

Visually, the drink should appear crystalline with a faint golden tint, almost jewel-like. On the palate, expect a cleaner, crisper take on the original—light enough to reveal complexity, yet structured enough to feel substantial.

A Few Lesser-Known Notes

One intriguing footnote in the cocktail’s story is that early 1900s bartenders in London were already experimenting with gin-based Old Fashioneds, partly due to the soaring popularity of drier, lighter drinks during the pre-Prohibition era. These versions appeared in niche recipe books but never reached mainstream adoption—making today’s revival feel like a rediscovered chapter.

Another interesting detail: modern bartenders often use small amounts of herbal liqueurs in mixology to create creative gin Old Fashioned riffs. A barspoon of elderflower, chartreuse, or even a dry Italian amaro can transform the drink entirely, though purists tend to keep the build clean.

Conclusion

Reimagining the Old Fashioned through the lens of gin doesn’t diminish the original; it sharpens its essence. This version embraces clarity, botanical depth, and a more contemporary elegance—perfect for drinkers who appreciate both heritage and innovation. For Mekong Gin Society members, it’s a chance to explore a classic with fresh eyes and experience a cocktail that rewards technique as much as taste. Pour one, stir with intention, and let this spirited reinvention remind you why the Old Fashioned remains a timeless canvas for craftsmanship.