As one of the world's oldest and most recognised serves on record, the Old Fashioned needs no introduction. With a life spanning over 200 years, you will find this classic serve heading cocktail lists in bars and venues across every continent.
Old Fashioned Week, this year running from October 11th-20th, is an annual global celebration of this iconic cocktail. It's more than just a tribute to cocktail culture; it's an opportunity to introduce new audiences to this beloved drink and encourage creative interpretations of this classic recipe.
To celebrate, we visited six bars across London, dedicating our social media channels to showcase some of our favourite bars and bartenders across London, sharing the stories behind their creations, each made with The Whiskymaker's Reserve No.7.
"Following the classic cocktail formula; spirit, sugar, water and bitters, created back in 1806, The Old Fashioned is by definition - the original cocktail"
Shoreditch Arts Club
Opening its doors in March 2023, Shoreditch Arts Club, a private members club, offers guests the opportunity to enjoy exquisite cocktails in a unique environment designed to evoke the curiosity of an art collectors' home.
We had the pleasure of interviewing Senior Bartender Alessandro, from Alba Italy. With a deep-rooted love for his culture and a flair for mixology, Alessandro brings a unique perspective to the art of creating the perfect Old Fashioned Cocktail.
"Alba, my hometown, is renowned for producing truffles. To celebrate Old Fashioned Week, I wanted to incorporate a taste of home into this classic cocktail. At Shoreditch Arts Club, we're committed to sustainability so we've sourced English truffles to add a unique and flavourful twist. The Whiskymaker's Reserve No.7 is known for its rich aroma and luxurious taste, making it the perfect base for showcasing the earthy elegance of truffles."
Wild Tavern
Inspired by the islands of Italy, the coasts of Europe and the pastures of the world, Wild Tavern, nestled within the heart of Chelsea, is a true neighbourhood restaurant.
As for the inspiration behind the renowned 'Pistachio Old Fashioned', Bar Manager Lorand Hegadus said:
"The Whiskymaker's Reserve No.7 has been matured in sherry casks, allowing its rich flavours to shine through in the whisky. With winter approaching, we concocted a pistachio blend with the whisky, fat washing it for a delightful creamy texture. The whisky's punch character is balanced by the addition of orange oleo and demerit sugar, creating a harmonious blend of dryness and nuttiness. At Wild Tavern, we prioritise flavour over excessive garnishing, focusing on the essence of the drink itself."
The Northall
In the heart of Westminister, The Northall situated in Corinthia London's hallowed walls discreetly hold the tales - and secrets - of many illustrious residents and guests, from politicians to spies, real and imagined. Today, the hotel pulses with the rhythm of the world's most diverse city, offering classical character just a short walk from the capital's rich cultural treasures.
Soaring ceilings and grand windows bathe the bar in natural light, creating a bright and living atmosphere. The carefully curated décor adds a touch of glamour, transporting you to a bygone era of elegance. But it's not just the ambiance that makes The Northall special, their expertly crafted cocktails, made with the freshest ingredients, stand as a testament to their dedication to quality.
Matteo Pulguisi, Head Bartender at The Northall, discusses the inspiration behind his Old Fashioned:
"I decided to use The Whiskymaker's Reserve No.7 for its bold layers of flavours. To compliment the whisky's long finish, i infused it with toasted sesame oil, finding that the nutty and oily texture perfectly with the whisky's sherry-forward character. Then, I added Amaro Zucca and a touch of Earl Grey syrup, before smoking it with some cherry chips, to elevate the drink to a whole new level."
Maison Assouline
Maison Assouline has it all: an exclusive line of Assouline Interiors furniture, limited-edition gift items, and antique collectables. Originally a banking hall designed by Sir Edwin Lutyens in 1922, the Grade II-listed building is now home to Assouline cultural lifestyle hub.
Swans Bar at Maison Assouline, an oasis of elegance and culture admits the Piccadilly bustle, invites you on an immersive exploration through their iconic travel series. Each meticulously crafted cocktail is inspired by a different title, often transporting you to exotic locations.
Bar manager, Gabor Onufer draws inspiration from the 2,000 books that line Swans Bar's shelves, "We're constantly flipping through pages, especially from the Travel Series, and we often build a whole drink off a single photograph."
"The reason I like to use The Whiskymaker's Reserve No.7 is that The Lakes uses the process of élevage so that the whisky is rich with layers of flavour that works exceptionally well in a cocktail like The Old Fashioned, which lets the whisky take the main stage and shows its true versatility."
Representing England is the timeless Shaman cocktail. Inspired by the classic Old Fashioned, the Shaman combines The Whiskymaker's reserve No.7, PX Sherry, Black Truffle, Birch Water, and Orange Cream Citrate.
Nipperkin
Nestled within NIJÚ restaurant in the heart of Mayfair, Nipperkin is an intimate cocktail bar inspired by he cosy and immersive atmosphere of 1950's Japanese listening rooms. Designed to evoke the warmth and elegance of a private listening space, Nipperkin features vintage records and a carefully curated selection of cocktails.
This hidden gem, located just off Berkley Square, offers a truly unique cocktail experience crafted by award-winning mixologist Angelos Bafas and his dedicated team. Nipperkin takes pride in locally sourced ingredients, with 98% of produce coming from Britain.
China Tang
The iconic China Tang restaurant, a gem in The Dorchester's crown, is renowned for its unique ingredients, imaginative cocktails, and captivating atmosphere. Led by the charasmatic Head Mixologist Leo Surovec, the bars creative flair, evoking 1930's pre-revolution Shanghai, is as legendary as its glamorous setting.
"The bar is part of the Cantonese restaurant, and i've been behind the bar for the past 10 years. Our speciality are oriental cocktails and contemporary twists on classics. The Whiskymaker's Reserve No.7 is a bold sherry-led expression. Baiju Rose Liqueur is mixed with the whisky and balanced with Genmaicha Tea syrup. In my twist on a classic, the East will meet the West."
Bartenders worldwide are constantly innovating the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. By adding unique twists, layering complementary and contrasting flavours, and incorporating personal influences, these skilled mixologists have created truly delicious variations. Explore their creations and more by following us on social media @lakesdistillery.
