Every host knows the challenge: one friend is a die-hard bourbon fan, while another only drinks tequila. Instead of choosing sides, why not unite them with a single, spectacular cocktail? The bourbon and tequila old fashioned is the ultimate diplomatic drink, a peacekeeper in a glass. It’s a sophisticated sipper that showcases the best of both worlds—the rich, sweet foundation of a quality bourbon and the bright, peppery character of an aged tequila. This isn’t a compromise; it’s a conversation between two iconic spirits, creating a balanced, complex flavor that will win over everyone at the table.
Key Takeaways
- Embrace the Unexpected Pairing: Don’t be afraid to mix bourbon and tequila. The shared notes of vanilla and caramel from barrel aging create a surprisingly harmonious and complex cocktail that respects tradition while being excitingly new.
- Choose Aged Spirits and Quality Ice: The secret to a great version of this drink lies in using an aged tequila, like an Añejo or Reposado, to complement the bourbon’s depth. Just as important, use a single large ice cube for perfect chilling with minimal dilution.
- Get Creative with Flavors and Food: Once you have the basics down, start experimenting. Swap your bitters for mole or chocolate varieties, and try pairing the finished drink with everything from smoky grilled meats to spicy tacos to enhance the experience.
What is a Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned?
The Old Fashioned is a cornerstone of cocktail culture—a timeless mix of spirit, sugar, bitters, and water. It’s a drink built on tradition. But what happens when you invite a little rebellion to the party? You get the Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned, a modern classic that proves some rules are worth breaking. This cocktail swaps some or all of the traditional whiskey for aged tequila, creating a drink that’s both familiar and thrillingly new. It honors the soul of the original while introducing a complex, earthy character that stands on its own. It’s a testament to the kind of bold spirit Mary Dowling herself would have appreciated.
The Story Behind This Modern Twist
Unlike cocktails with century-old origin stories, the Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned is a product of modern mixology. It doesn’t have one single creator but was born from the creative curiosity of bartenders playing with classic formulas. One popular name for the drink, “A Mexican & A Cowboy Walk Into A Bar,” perfectly captures its spirit—a playful meeting of two distinct worlds. This cocktail is about experimentation and the delicious discovery that happens when you mix bourbon and tequila. It’s a new chapter in the Old Fashioned’s long history, written by those who aren’t afraid to pair the warmth of American bourbon with the vibrant soul of Mexican tequila.
How It Differs from the Classic
At its core, the structure remains the same, but two key ingredients change the game. First, aged tequila—typically an Añejo or Reposado—steps in for a portion of the bourbon. This introduces a new layer of flavor that’s earthy and vegetal. Second, the sweetener is often swapped. Instead of a sugar cube or simple syrup, many recipes call for agave nectar. This not only complements the tequila but also provides a slightly different texture and sweetness. The result is a drink that’s less about straight caramel and oak and more about a dynamic interplay between the bourbon’s richness and the tequila’s bright, peppery notes.
Why Bourbon and Tequila Work So Well Together
It might seem like an unlikely pairing, but bourbon and aged tequila share more in common than you’d think. Both spirits spend time aging in oak barrels, which imparts warm notes of vanilla, caramel, and spice. A well-crafted bourbon, like our Mary Dowling whiskeys, brings a rich, sweet foundation to the cocktail. The aged tequila then builds on that, adding a distinct earthy and peppery character from the agave plant. The two don’t compete; they complement each other. The bourbon smooths the edges of the tequila, while the tequila adds a lively complexity that keeps every sip interesting. It’s a balanced, sophisticated, and deeply satisfying combination.
Common Myths About Mixing These Spirits
Let’s clear the air on a persistent myth: that you can’t or shouldn’t mix bourbon and tequila. This idea often comes from the outdated notion that you should never mix different types of spirits in one drink. We’re here to tell you that’s simply not true. Great cocktails are all about balance and flavor, not arbitrary rules. As long as the spirits complement each other, there’s no reason not to combine them. The Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned is the perfect proof. It’s a sophisticated, delicious cocktail that showcases how two powerful spirits can create something truly special when brought together. So go ahead, defy convention and mix with confidence.
How to Make the Perfect Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned
Ready to craft a cocktail that’s both familiar and exciting? The Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned is a modern classic in the making, blending the warm, oaky notes of bourbon with the earthy, agave spice of a quality tequila. It’s a sophisticated yet straightforward drink to make at home, perfect for an evening when you want something special without a lot of fuss. The key is using excellent spirits and paying attention to a few simple details that make all the difference. This recipe will guide you through creating a perfectly balanced cocktail that honors both its classic roots and its innovative spirit.
Think of it as a conversation between two iconic spirits, each bringing its best qualities to the glass. The bourbon provides a rich, caramel-and-vanilla backbone, while the añejo tequila introduces a subtle, peppery complexity. It’s a drink that feels both timeless and completely new. We’ll cover everything from the essential ingredients to the techniques that ensure a perfect chill and the right amount of dilution. We’ll also point out a few common pitfalls to help you get it right on the first try. Let’s get mixing.
What You’ll Need: Ingredients and Tools
Gathering your components is the first step to a great cocktail. You don’t need a lot of fancy equipment, just quality ingredients. For one drink, you’ll want to have a cocktail shaker, a jigger for measuring, and a classic Old Fashioned glass ready to go.
Here’s what to pour:
- 1 ½ ounces Mary Dowling Whiskey Co. Bourbon
- 1 ½ ounces Añejo Tequila
- ¾ ounce Simple Syrup
- 1 dash Walnut Bitters
- Orange Peel for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
This cocktail comes together in just a few simple steps. The secret is in the shake—you want to get it perfectly chilled before you pour.
- Fill your cocktail shaker with ice. Add the bourbon, tequila, simple syrup, and walnut bitters.
- Secure the lid and shake vigorously about 40 times. You’ll know it’s ready when the outside of the shaker is frosty and cold to the touch.
- Place a large ice cube in your Old Fashioned glass.
- Strain the chilled mixture from the shaker into the glass over the ice.
- For the final touch, express the orange peel over the drink by squeezing it with the skin facing the glass. This releases the fragrant oils onto the surface. Then, drop the peel into the glass as a garnish.
Why Mary Dowling Bourbon Is the Ideal Foundation
The bourbon you choose makes all the difference, and this cocktail calls for one with character. Mary Dowling Bourbon is the perfect foundation because its signature flavor comes from aging in new, charred oak barrels. This process gives our whiskey its classic bold, smoky notes with beautiful hints of vanilla and caramel. These complex flavors don’t just stand up to the añejo tequila—they dance with it. The result is a drink where each spirit enhances the other, creating a smooth, rich, and deeply satisfying cocktail that tells a story with every sip.
Getting the Ice and Dilution Just Right
Let’s talk about ice. It might seem like a small detail, but it’s crucial for a great Old Fashioned. The goal is to chill the drink without watering it down too quickly. That’s why you should always use large ice cubes or spheres in your glass. Smaller cubes and crushed ice have more surface area and melt much faster, diluting the rich flavors of the bourbon and tequila you so carefully selected. A single, large cube will keep your drink cold from the first sip to the last, ensuring the taste remains concentrated and perfect.
Mistakes to Avoid for the Perfect Pour
The beauty of an Old Fashioned is its simplicity. It’s a cocktail designed to highlight the spirit, not hide it. The most common misstep is adding too many competing elements. Remember, the Old Fashioned should let the whiskey shine, not drown it in sugar, fruit, or an over-pour of bitters. When you’re using a premium spirit like Mary Dowling, you want to taste its nuances. Think of the other ingredients as supporting actors—they’re there to complement the main star. Find that perfect balance, and you’ll have a flawless cocktail every time. For more inspiration, you can always explore other bourbon-forward recipes.
What Flavors Define This Unique Cocktail?
This cocktail is a masterclass in balance, where two powerhouse spirits meet in the middle to create something entirely new. It’s not just bourbon with a splash of tequila; it’s a carefully constructed dialogue between char, smoke, earth, and spice. Understanding what each ingredient contributes is the key to appreciating—and perfecting—this modern classic. Let’s break down the flavor profile, layer by layer.
What Bourbon Brings to the Glass
Think of bourbon as the cocktail’s warm, familiar heart. Its signature flavor comes from being aged in new, charred oak barrels, which gives it those classic bold notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of smoke. This rich, sweet foundation is what makes an Old Fashioned so comforting and timeless. When you use a well-crafted spirit like one of Mary Dowling’s whiskeys, you get an even deeper complexity that stands up beautifully to the tequila. The bourbon provides the structure and the deep, resonant notes that anchor the entire drink.
What Tequila Adds to the Mix
If bourbon is the heart, tequila is the soul. It introduces a completely different character to the glass that cuts through the bourbon’s richness. The agave spirit brings a bright, earthy, and sometimes peppery profile that adds an unexpected and exciting twist. Instead of clashing, this contrast creates a dynamic tension that makes the drink more interesting with every sip. It’s this interplay between the familiar warmth of bourbon and the vibrant, wilder notes of tequila that defines the cocktail and sets it apart from its traditional counterpart.
How Aged Tequilas Add More Depth
Not all tequilas are created equal, and for this cocktail, age matters. Using an aged tequila, like a reposado or añejo, is crucial for creating a harmonious blend. An añejo tequila is aged for at least one year, often in oak barrels, where it develops flavors of baking spices, oak, and caramel. These notes are remarkably similar to what you find in bourbon, creating a seamless bridge between the two spirits. This shared vocabulary of flavor allows them to meld together beautifully, resulting in a drink that is layered and cohesive.
Balancing Bright Citrus and Rich Sweetness
Beyond the spirits, the supporting ingredients play a vital role. A classic Old Fashioned relies on a balance of bitters, sugar, and citrus. The expressed oils from an orange peel are non-negotiable; they add a bright, aromatic lift that brightens the deep notes of the spirits. The sweetener is where you can get creative. While simple syrup works, you can introduce extra depth with maple syrup or a spiced orange syrup. This is your chance to steer the cocktail’s final profile, complementing the specific notes in the spirits you’ve chosen. You can find inspiration in various cocktail recipes to see how different elements work together.
How Sweeteners Tie It All Together
To truly connect the bourbon and tequila, consider using agave nectar as your sweetener. This simple swap is a game-changer. Because tequila is made from agave, using agave nectar creates a natural flavor link that ties the whole drink together. It lends a slightly different sweetness than simple syrup—richer and more nuanced. You’ll also notice it gives the drink a thicker, more luxurious mouthfeel, coating your palate in a way that allows you to savor the complex interplay of oak, agave, and spice. It’s a small detail that makes a big difference.
How to Customize Your Cocktail
Once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, you can start making this cocktail truly your own. The beauty of an Old Fashioned is its simple structure, which serves as a perfect canvas for your creativity. Small adjustments to the tequila, bitters, or garnish can completely transform the drink’s character. Think of these components as dials you can turn to fine-tune the flavor profile to your exact preference. Whether you want to lean into smoky, spicy, or citrus notes, here are a few ways to personalize your Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned.
Añejo or Reposado: Which Tequila Is Best?
The type of tequila you choose will have the biggest impact on your cocktail’s final taste. For a rich and complex drink that complements the warm notes of bourbon, an añejo tequila is your best bet. Añejo is aged for at least a year in oak barrels, which gives it flavors of caramel, vanilla, and baking spices—notes that feel right at home in an Old Fashioned. A reposado, which is aged for a shorter period, offers a lighter, brighter profile with more agave-forward notes. It’s a great choice if you prefer a crisper finish, but for that classic, spirit-forward depth, understanding the difference between añejo and reposado will help you make the perfect choice.
Selecting the Right Bitters
Bitters are the spice rack of your home bar, and just a few dashes can add incredible dimension to your drink. While Angostura is the classic choice, mole bitters are a fantastic partner for this cocktail. They introduce earthy, chocolatey, and subtle chili notes that beautifully highlight the agave flavors in the tequila. Orange or chocolate bitters are also excellent options, adding either a bright citrus lift or a deeper, dessert-like richness. Don’t be afraid to mix and match a few different types to create a signature blend that’s all yours.
Perfecting Your Garnish
A garnish is more than just a pretty accessory; it’s the final aromatic touch that greets you before your first sip. A simple, wide orange peel is the classic choice for a reason. When you twist it over the glass, it releases fragrant oils that brighten the entire drink. To prepare it, use a vegetable peeler to get a nice strip of peel without too much of the bitter white pith. For a different take, you could rim your glass with a smoked salt or a spicy chili-salt blend. This adds a savory element that contrasts nicely with the cocktail’s sweetness.
Creative Twists and Seasonal Riffs
This cocktail is incredibly adaptable to different seasons and moods. For a cozier, fall-inspired version, try making a simple syrup infused with cinnamon and orange. Just simmer equal parts sugar and water with a cinnamon stick and a few strips of orange peel until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool. You can also experiment with different sweeteners, like agave nectar or maple syrup, to see how they interact with the spirits. Another popular variation is to split the base evenly between our Mary Dowling Bourbon and your favorite añejo tequila for a perfectly balanced expression of both.
Choosing the Right Glassware
Serving your cocktail in the right glass enhances the entire experience. The ideal vessel for this drink is, unsurprisingly, an Old Fashioned glass, also known as a rocks glass or a lowball. Its wide brim allows the cocktail’s complex aromas to open up, while its sturdy, heavy base feels substantial in your hand. This type of glass is also perfectly sized to accommodate a large ice cube or sphere, which is essential for chilling the drink with minimal dilution. It’s a timeless piece of glassware that frames the cocktail beautifully.
When to Serve a Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned
The beauty of the Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned lies in its versatility. It’s a cocktail that feels both familiar and excitingly new, making it a perfect fit for a wide range of moments. This isn’t just a drink you save for a specific holiday or theme; it’s a sophisticated sipper that can stand as the centerpiece of a quiet evening or the life of a lively party. Its unique profile, blending the warm, oaky notes of bourbon with the earthy, agave spirit of tequila, makes it an instant conversation starter.
Think of it as the perfect bridge for your guests. Have a friend who only drinks tequila and another who’s a die-hard bourbon fan? This cocktail is your answer. It’s a drink that respects tradition while boldly stepping into new territory—a spirit Mary Dowling herself would have appreciated. Whether you’re hosting a casual backyard barbecue or an elegant dinner, this modern classic is ready to impress. It’s about choosing a drink that tells a story and creates a memorable experience for everyone at the table.
Ideal Occasions and Settings
This cocktail shines in settings where you want to offer something special without being overly formal. It’s perfect for a sophisticated dinner party, where it can be served as a welcome drink to get conversations flowing. The blend of American and Mexican spirits also makes it a natural choice for themed gatherings. Imagine hosting a “Mexican and a Cowboy” party where this drink is the star. For more relaxed moments, it’s an excellent choice for a weekend get-together with friends, a game night, or simply a quiet evening on the patio as the sun sets. It has enough character to be celebrated but is smooth enough to be enjoyed casually.
Pairing with Smoky and Grilled Foods
If there’s a grill involved, this cocktail should be on the menu. The smoky char of grilled meats, from a perfectly cooked steak to fall-off-the-bone ribs, beautifully complements the barrel-aged notes in both the bourbon and the añejo or reposado tequila. The inherent sweetness of the bourbon and the earthy spice of the tequila cut through the richness of the meat, creating a balanced and satisfying pairing. It’s not just for meat-eaters, either. Try it alongside grilled portobello mushrooms, smoky eggplant, or corn on the cob slathered in cotija cheese and chili powder. This is the ultimate companion for any bourbon-and-food pairings centered around open-flame cooking.
Pairing with Desserts
Don’t put the cocktail shaker away when it’s time for dessert. A Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned can be a fantastic digestif or a surprising pairing with the final course. Its rich, slightly sweet profile works wonderfully with desserts that aren’t overly sugary. Think of dark chocolate tortes, where the cocktail’s vanilla and caramel notes can mingle with the cocoa. It’s also a fantastic match for creamy desserts like flan, panna cotta, or even a classic carrot cake with cream cheese frosting. The cocktail acts almost like a spiced sauce, enhancing the flavors of the dessert without overwhelming them.
Pairing with Spicy Dishes
This cocktail has the backbone to stand up to bold, spicy flavors. Where a lighter drink might get lost, the Bourbon and Tequila Old Fashioned holds its own. The sweetness from the demerara syrup or agave nectar provides a pleasant counterpoint to the heat of chilis, while the earthy notes of the tequila are a natural fit for the complex spices found in many Mexican and Latin American dishes. Serve it with spicy tacos al pastor, mole-covered enchiladas, or even a fiery Thai curry. The cocktail’s robust character cleanses the palate and prepares you for the next flavorful bite, making it a dynamic partner for a wide range of tequila food pairings.
How to Host the Perfect Tasting
Want to introduce your friends to the world of premium spirits in a fun, approachable way? Host a tasting event centered around this cocktail. It’s the perfect vehicle for exploration because it uses a familiar format—the Old Fashioned—to showcase the unique qualities of both bourbon and aged tequila. You can feature one of Mary Dowling’s whiskeys to demonstrate how a high-quality bourbon provides the perfect foundation. Then, offer small pours of the reposado or añejo tequila you used, allowing guests to appreciate its character on its own before enjoying it in the finished drink. It’s an interactive and educational way to share your passion for great spirits.
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Frequently Asked Questions
The recipe says to shake this cocktail, but aren’t Old Fashioneds supposed to be stirred? You are absolutely right—a traditional, all-whiskey Old Fashioned should always be stirred to achieve that perfect silky texture without over-diluting it. However, this version is a bit of a rebel. Because you’re blending two distinct and robust spirits, a vigorous shake helps marry their flavors together more effectively. It also provides the quick, hard chill needed to make the combination exceptionally smooth and refreshing right from the first sip.
Can I use a different type of tequila, like a silver or blanco? While you can technically use any tequila you have on hand, you’ll miss out on the magic of this specific pairing. The recipe calls for an aged tequila, like a reposado or añejo, for a very important reason. The time spent in oak barrels gives these tequilas warm notes of caramel, vanilla, and spice, which creates a beautiful and seamless bridge to the similar flavors found in our bourbon. A blanco tequila would be much sharper and more vegetal, creating a clash rather than a harmonious blend.
What if I don’t have walnut bitters? What’s a good substitute? No problem at all! Bitters are a fantastic way to add complexity, but you can definitely swap them out. The most classic and readily available substitute would be Angostura bitters, which will add a traditional spiced character to the drink. If you want to lean into the citrus notes, a few dashes of orange bitters would also be wonderful. Think of the bitters as the cocktail’s seasoning—feel free to use what you have and enjoy.
Can I adjust the ratio of bourbon to tequila? Of course! The 1:1 ratio in our recipe creates a perfectly balanced cocktail where both spirits get to shine equally. However, you should absolutely use it as a starting point and adjust to your own taste. If you’re a dedicated bourbon lover, try a ratio of 2 parts Mary Dowling Bourbon to 1 part tequila for a more whiskey-forward drink. If you want to highlight the agave notes, simply reverse that. The best cocktail is always the one that you enjoy the most.
Is this a good cocktail for someone who is new to drinking whiskey or tequila? This is definitely a spirit-forward cocktail, so there’s no hiding the flavors of the bourbon and tequila. That said, it can be a fantastic introduction for an adventurous palate. The simple syrup and dilution from the ice do a great job of softening the edges of the spirits, making it incredibly smooth. If you already enjoy one of the spirits, this drink is a wonderful and accessible way to get acquainted with the other in a balanced, sophisticated format.
Justin Pakdaman is the Marketing Director for Mary Dowling Whiskey Co., where he leads brand storytelling, digital strategy, and consumer engagement. Justin has years of experience building premium spirits brands.