The Skrewball Old Fashioned is a bold and innovative reimagining of a true cocktail classic. The original Old Fashioned dates back to the early 19th century and is often cited as one of the very first cocktails. Traditionally composed of just a spirit (usually whiskey), a bit of sugar, some bitters, and a twist of citrus, the Old Fashioned is simplicity at its most elegant—a drink that has withstood the test of time due to its balance, versatility, and depth. The Skrewball Old Fashioned carries this history forward but with a modern, whimsical twist that brings new life into a beloved favorite.
This updated version swaps the conventional bourbon or rye whiskey for Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, a flavored whiskey that has quickly gained popularity for its rich, sweet, and nutty characteristics. Launched in California in 2018, Skrewball has turned heads with its unique profile, offering notes of roasted peanuts and vanilla with a whiskey backbone. What makes it especially compelling for cocktails is its ability to stand apart but also blend harmoniously with other flavors—particularly those found in dessert-like creations or adventurous riffs on classic drinks.
By using Skrewball as the base, this Old Fashioned becomes something more playful and nostalgic. Whereas the original Old Fashioned can come across as robust and spirit-forward, the Skrewball iteration is softer in character yet still complex. The addition of rich demerara syrup—made with a 2:1 sugar-to-water ratio—intensifies the cocktail’s depth with molasses undertones, enhancing the peanut butter whiskey’s nutty sweetness. Aromatic bitters (most often Angostura) provide the structure and herbal edge necessary to balance the sweetness, ensuring the drink doesn’t become cloying.
The choice of garnishes further elevates this cocktail. A freshly expressed orange peel offers brightness and a zesty counterpoint to the whiskey’s earthy richness, while a Luxardo cherry (optional but recommended) ties it all together with a pop of color and a luxurious, maraschino sweetness. These final flourishes not only enhance the flavor and aroma but also give the drink a sophisticated presentation suitable for any upscale cocktail hour.
What makes the Skrewball Old Fashioned particularly interesting is its appeal to both cocktail aficionados and casual drinkers. It bridges the gap between the high-proof, traditional profile of a classic Old Fashioned and the sweeter, more approachable flavors that Skrewball brings to the table. It’s a surefire conversation starter—ideal for themed gatherings, dessert pairings, or even as a signature drink at weddings and events. Moreover, its versatility can be amplified through creative variations: add chocolate bitters for a dessert-leaning note, or swap in a chocolate-infused bourbon for a nut-free option.
In essence, the Skrewball Old Fashioned honors the roots of its classic predecessor while embracing contemporary palates and playful flavor profiles. It’s both a nod to cocktail heritage and an invitation to explore new, unexpected territory—served in a rocks glass with a twist of orange and a wink of whimsy.
Skrewball Old Fashioned
Equipment
- Rocks Glass
- Jigger
- Bar spoon
- Peeler or paring knife
Ingredients
- 2 oz Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey preferably chilled
- 0.25 oz simple syrup use rich (2:1) demerara syrup for depth
- 2 dashes aromatic bitters Angostura bitters recommended
- 1 piece orange peel fresh, for garnish
- 1 piece luxardo cherry optional, for garnish
Instructions
- Start by chilling a rocks glass. You can do this by filling it with ice and letting it sit while you prepare the drink.
- In a separate mixing glass, add 2 oz of Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey, 0.25 oz of rich demerara syrup, and 2 dashes of aromatic bitters.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 20–30 seconds until well chilled and slightly diluted. You’re looking for a silky texture when strained.
- Dump the ice from your rocks glass and strain the cocktail over a large clear ice cube for presentation and slow dilution.
- Express an orange peel over the drink by holding it over the glass and giving it a firm twist to release the oils, then rub it around the rim and drop it in as garnish.
- Optional: Add a Luxardo cherry for a touch of elegance and color contrast.
Notes
- For a nut-free version, replace Skrewball with a chocolate-infused bourbon for a similarly rich mouthfeel.
- Use clear, slow-melting ice for a refined appearance and slower dilution.
- If sugar syrup is unavailable, you can muddle a sugar cube with the bitters — though this introduces a slightly different texture.
- Try adding a single dash of chocolate bitters for a dessert-leaning variation.
