Woodford Reserve Distiller's Select

Adhering to the original definition of a cocktail (spirit, bitters, sugar and water) the Old Fashioned dates to 1800. What is incredible is how little it has changed over the intervening 200 years.

In its infancy, the drink went by the name ‘Whiskey Cocktail’ and was actually enjoyed in the morning, as cocktails were, to restore and act as an ‘eye opener’. By 1840 it had gained cult status.

By the late 1800s bartenders were getting very experimental, but if their convoluted concoctions didn’t appeal you called out for an Old-Fashioned Whiskey Cocktail.

As it evolved the drink did adopt a few changes, most prominently becoming served over ice. It was also no longer a quick, down-in-one morning pick-me-up, but rather a slow sipping cocktail.

Prohibition's 13-year interlude harmed the Old Fashioned, with chunks of fruit being mashed into the drink, maraschino cherries to garnish and then topping off the fruity mess with soda.

Thankfully a revival of the cocktail saved the traditional recipe and has ensured this charming, whiskey-rich drink has made it safely into the 21st century.