The Old Fashioned Three Ways: Irish, Rye, and High-Proof Bourbon Spins on a Classic

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Introduction

Few cocktails stand the test of time quite like the Old Fashioned. With its minimalist approach—just whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist—it’s a drink that highlights the quality of the spirit itself, with subtle enhancements to coax out complexity, depth, and richness. Yet, despite its simple build, the Old Fashioned is an endless playground for whiskey lovers.

Today, I’m diving into three distinctly different Old Fashioned interpretations, each using a unique base whiskey:

• Keeper’s Heart Irish + American Whiskey – a blend that brings Irish smoothness with American spice.
• Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye – bold, herbal, and old-school.
• Old Grand-Dad 114 Bourbon – high-proof and unapologetically punchy.

Each variation tells its own story and brings out new character from the classic formula. Whether you’re a whiskey newcomer or an experienced cocktail crafter, these three Old Fashioneds might just change the way you look at your home bar.

A Brief History of the Old Fashioned

Before we get into the pours, it’s worth revisiting the origins of this iconic drink.

The Old Fashioned is considered one of the earliest recorded cocktails, dating back to the early 1800s. Originally called a “whiskey cocktail,” it was defined simply as a spirit, sugar, water, and bitters. Over time, bartenders began to embellish it with fruit, liqueurs, and newfangled ingredients—much to the dismay of traditionalists.

By the late 19th century, patrons began requesting their drink made the “old-fashioned” way, leading to the cocktail we know and love today.

The standard recipe is straightforward:

• 2 oz whiskey
• 1 sugar cube (or ¼ oz simple syrup)
• 2–3 dashes of bitters
• Orange or lemon peel (for garnish)

But like any timeless structure, the Old Fashioned invites variation. Let’s explore how these three whiskeys shape the drink.

1. Keeper’s Heart Old Fashioned – A Marriage of Smooth and Spicy

Whiskey Used: Keeper’s Heart Irish + American Whiskey
ABV: 43%
Base Spirit Flavor Profile: Creamy, orchard fruit, mild rye spice

Why It Works

Keeper’s Heart is a truly unique bottle—a blend of Irish pot still whiskey, Irish grain whiskey, and American rye whiskey. This fusion brings a silkiness you’d expect from an Irish dram but layers it with that distinctive rye edge. It’s smooth, nuanced, and absolutely shines in a stirred-down cocktail like the Old Fashioned.

Because Irish whiskey tends to be lighter and more fruit-forward, using it in an Old Fashioned gives the drink a softer edge. But the rye influence in Keeper’s Heart keeps things grounded with gentle spice and oak.

Build

• 2 oz Keeper’s Heart Irish + American
• ¼ oz demerara syrup (1:1)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Garnish: Orange twist (expressed over the top)

Tasting Notes

On the nose, this cocktail opens with baked apple, caramelized sugar, and just a hint of clove. The palate is remarkably balanced—light red fruit and honey from the Irish side, married with pepper and oak from the rye. The demerara syrup gives it body without overwhelming the delicate whiskey.

Final Thoughts

This is the crowd-pleaser of the trio. Approachable and refined, this version is ideal for those who don’t usually order whiskey drinks or for those who like a lower-ABV evening sipper. It leans into the sweet and aromatic side of the Old Fashioned without losing the whiskey’s personality.

If you’re new to making cocktails at home or serving guests who may shy away from high-proof spirits, this is your go-to.

2. Chicken Cock Rye Old Fashioned – Old School Meets Spice

Whiskey Used: Chicken Cock Kentucky Straight Rye
ABV: 45%
Base Spirit Flavor Profile: Herbal, green peppercorn, dried fruit

Why It Works

Rye whiskey was the original base of many pre-Prohibition cocktails, and it still delivers a snappy backbone perfect for stirred classics. Chicken Cock Rye, with its spicy profile and traditional Kentucky roots, makes for an assertive yet balanced Old Fashioned.

Rye brings a lean, dry spice that cuts through sugar and bitters effortlessly. It’s not a whiskey that fades into the background—and that’s exactly what makes it a phenomenal choice here.

Build

• 2 oz Chicken Cock Rye
• ¼ oz spiced honey syrup (honey + cinnamon stick + clove, simmered)
• 2 dashes aromatic bitters (Angostura or Peychaud’s)
• Garnish: Lemon twist or expressed lemon oil over a large cube

Tasting Notes

This version is snappy and bold, with aromas of cracked black pepper, baking spice, and faint citrus peel. The spiced honey brings a rich depth, echoing flavors of clove, gingerbread, and even a bit of licorice. It’s a warmer, more assertive drink that demands attention.

The lemon twist adds brightness, balancing the earthy rye character with a top note of zest.

Final Thoughts

This is your classicist’s Old Fashioned. If you enjoy Sazeracs or Manhattan-style spice, this one will hit home. It’s also perfect for cooler nights or as a slow sipper in front of a fire. There’s a real heritage feel to this cocktail—like something you’d be served at a speakeasy with dark wood walls and jazz on the turntable.

Highly recommended for seasoned whiskey drinkers or anyone looking to explore beyond bourbon.

3. Old Grand-Dad 114 Old Fashioned – The Powerhouse

Whiskey Used: Old Grand-Dad 114
ABV: 57%
Base Spirit Flavor Profile: Cherry cola, caramel, peanut brittle, heat

Why It Works

Old Grand-Dad 114 is a bruiser—bold, high-proof, and packed with classic Beam nuttiness and spice. It’s one of the best value bourbons on the market and punches well above its price point when it comes to depth and flavor.

When used in an Old Fashioned, this whiskey commands center stage. The added proof stands up to any modifiers, making this drink bolder, richer, and more intense than either of the previous two.

Build

• 2 oz Old Grand-Dad 114
• 1 barspoon rich simple syrup (2:1)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Garnish: Orange and cherry combo (optional: flame the orange peel for extra pop)

Tasting Notes

This cocktail is dense, rich, and full of character. The nose hits you with brown sugar, singed orange peel, roasted peanuts, and vanilla. The palate delivers cherry cola, barrel char, and a toasty oakiness, with a long, spicy finish that keeps building.

The drink is warming, but not overwhelming. The sweet-to-spice balance is perfect, thanks to the slightly richer syrup and the sheer power of the whiskey.

Final Thoughts

This is for the bourbon purist, the drinker who likes their whiskey to kick a little. While the high proof might intimidate some, this cocktail manages to smooth the edges while preserving the boldness that makes OGD 114 such a cult favorite.

It’s not delicate or subtle—but it is delicious.

Comparing the Three: Personality in the Pour

These three variations show how dramatically the base whiskey can influence the Old Fashioned. A cocktail that many consider “simple” actually becomes a canvas for serious nuance and flavor experimentation.

A Few Bartender’s Tips

1. Use large clear ice – It chills your drink without over-diluting, letting you sip slowly and taste everything the whiskey has to offer.
2. Demerara or spiced syrups can elevate your drink – They’re easy to make at home and add depth compared to white sugar.
3. Use fresh citrus oil from the peel – Don’t skip the garnish. Expressing the peel over the glass adds aromatic lift that enhances the nose.

Conclusion: One Cocktail, Infinite Paths

What I love about these three Old Fashioneds is how they showcase the spirit’s identity. From the soft elegance of Keeper’s Heart to the spicy classicism of Chicken Cock Rye to the raw punch of OGD 114, each cocktail takes you somewhere different while still honoring the same foundational blueprint.

So which should you make?

The answer is simple: all of them.

Set up a small tasting for yourself or friends. Mix all three side-by-side, use the same glassware, and take the time to appreciate how the Old Fashioned evolves with each whiskey. This isn’t just a cocktail—it’s a journey through heritage, flavor, and personal taste.

Because at the end of the day, the best Old Fashioned is the one you’re enjoying right now.