The Old Fashioned cocktail stands as a testament to timeless mixology, embodying simplicity and sophistication. Among its many renditions, the Handy & Schiller Old Fashioned distinguishes itself by seamlessly blending tradition with modern convenience. This ready-to-drink cocktail offers enthusiasts an authentic experience without the intricacies of traditional preparation.
A Glimpse into the Past: The Old-Fashioned’s Legacy
One of the first known drinks is the Old Fashioned, which dates back to the early 1800s. Its classic recipe combines sugar, water, bitters, and a choice of spirit, typically whiskey. Over the years, this straightforward concoction has become a staple in bars worldwide, celebrated for its balanced flavor profile and elegant simplicity.
Introducing Handy & Schiller: A Tribute to Cocktail Pioneers
The Handy & Schiller brand pays homage to two influential figures in New Orleans’ cocktail history: Thomas Handy and John Schiller. Schiller, a New York bartender, eventually operated the renowned Sazerac Coffeehouse in the French Quarter by 1860. Handy, originally from Maryland, worked under Schiller before establishing his own liquor business. Their contributions laid the foundation for many classic cocktails, inspiring the creation of the Handy & Schiller line.
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Crafting the Handy & Schiller Old Fashioned
This particular Old Fashioned is crafted using Buffalo Trace Bourbon, a flagship product of the Buffalo Trace Distillery, combined with the classic Peychaud’s Bitters. After mixing, the cocktail is aged in barrels within the distillery’s warehouses, allowing the flavors to meld and mature. Bottled at 42% ABV (84 proof), it offers a robust yet smooth drinking experience.
Tasting Notes: What to Expect
Upon pouring, the Handy & Schiller Old Fashioned reveals an amber hue. The aroma presents notes of Chinese five-spice, sesame, a hint of mint, and tobacco. On the palate, it offers a satiny, moderately sweet, light-to-medium body with flavors of allspice, clove, vanilla, peanut brittle, chewy caramel, and roasted nuts. The finish is warming and medium-length, leaving a pleasant aftertaste.
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Accolades and Recognition
The quality of the Handy & Schiller Old Fashioned has not gone unnoticed. It was awarded a Double Gold medal at The Fifty Best’s ready-to-drink cocktail competition, highlighting its exceptional craftsmanship.
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Serving Suggestions
One of the standout features of this cocktail is its convenience. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or enjoying a quiet evening, the Handy & Schiller Old Fashioned is ready to serve. For optimal enjoyment, pour it over a large ice cube in a chilled glass and garnish with an orange peel to enhance its citrus notes. This straightforward approach ensures a consistently excellent drink every time.
Availability and Pricing
The Handy & Schiller Old Fashioned is available in 750ml bottles, typically priced around $39.99. This offers an affordable alternative to crafting individual cocktails, especially considering the quality of ingredients and the aging process involved.
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Conclusion
The Handy & Schiller Old Fashioned stands as a bridge between time-honored cocktail traditions and modern-day convenience. By utilizing premium ingredients and meticulous aging processes, it delivers an authentic Old Fashioned experience in a ready-to-drink format. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or new to the world of mixology, this offering promises a delightful and hassle-free indulgence.
