Old Fashioned forward – A classic cocktail done four ways

Few drinks are as well-built as the Old Fashioned, and few drinks are as passionately contested. Bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters and a lemon or orange twist—that’s usually it. But it hasn’t stopped us from tinkering. Heck, while one can argue that Mad Men made the Old Fashioned cool again, the scene of Don Draper jumping behind a bar to craft his own had him muddling a cherry in the glass. To cocktail purists, that’s a big no-no.

Our argument here, then, is to know the rules … but don’t be afraid to break them. There are plenty of Baton Rouge bars that offer the sturdy classic. But there are clever twists, too. And they are just as worthy of a slow, contemplative sip.

The Bacon Old Fashioned (pictured right) is one of four versions at this classy bar. It features house-infused bacon bourbon, Luxardo cherries, cinnamon and brown sugar simple syrup, Peychaud’s bitters and candied bacon. $10. galatoiresbistro.com

Even the bartenders don’t know the secret recipe for the housemade maraschino cherries that go into their Old Fashioned. Their deep, flavor muddled at the bottom of the glass—combined with Luxardo liqueur and Buffalo Trace bourbon—make this version a standout. $10. beausoleilrestaurantandbar.com

Tucked into the extensive drink menu are five versions (more if the bartenders are experimenting), including the Elder Fashioned. Eagle Rare 10-year bourbon is combined with St. Germain elderflower liquor and Angostura bitters for a strong drink with uniquely floral notes. The stemmed whisky glass it comes in is a nice touch, too. $15. portroyalcove.com

At a bar known for its mixology, the twist in its Old Fashioned Cocktail is triple sec’s orange flavor. Combined with Buffalo Trace bourbon, Heering’s Cherry Liqueur and Angostura bitters, the sweetness is just enough without overpowering the spirit. $10. oliveortwistbr.com