Elevate Your Evening: The Ultimate Earl Grey Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
An Earl Grey Old Fashioned is more than just a drink; it’s an experience. This sophisticated twist on the classic cocktail infuses rich bourbon with the fragrant, warm notes of Earl Grey tea, creating a comforting and uniquely flavorful beverage. It’s the perfect concoction to help you unwind and savor a moment of tranquility after a demanding day. Dive into the art of crafting this exquisite tea-infused bourbon cocktail that promises to delight your senses.
Please note that some of the links below are affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I will receive a small commission.
Life can sometimes throw curveballs, leading to moments where comfort isn’t just desired, but deeply needed. From unexpected illnesses to technical mishaps, dreary weather, or the everyday grind, we all seek solace. For me, that comfort often manifests in familiar flavors and cherished memories, especially those connected to the strong women in my life: my mother and grandmother.
A Sip of Nostalgia: The Inspiration Behind This Cocktail
Growing up, my mother had a steadfast remedy for any ailment: a steaming cup of hot tea. While I confess I wasn’t always the biggest tea enthusiast, usually preferring the robust kick of coffee, certain teas hold a special place in my heart. Among them is Earl Grey, a distinct blend that evokes vivid recollections of my grandmother.
I fondly remember our annual ladies’ tea party around Christmastime. My grandmother would always prepare English breakfast tea, served with a delicate splash of milk and a spoonful of sugar. It was a ritual of warmth, conversation, and gentle indulgence. Earl Grey, with its similar black tea base and distinctive bergamot essence, carries that same comforting, refined air, making it a natural choice for a drink that aims to soothe and uplift.
Beyond the comforting embrace of tea, another source of solace for me is the impeccably crafted Old Fashioned. There’s an undeniable elegance and timelessness to this classic bourbon cocktail. It’s a drink that encourages slow sips and thoughtful reflection, a liquid embodiment of sophisticated relaxation.
The Art of Infusion: Crafting Your Tea-Infused Bourbon
The magic of this Earl Grey Old Fashioned lies in its tea-infused bourbon. This simple yet transformative step elevates a beloved classic into something truly extraordinary. It’s my personal homage to those cherished memories: my mother’s nurturing care with hot tea and my grandmother’s festive tea gatherings. This infusion marries the depth of bourbon with the aromatic complexity of Earl Grey, creating a flavor profile that is both familiar and excitingly new.
Infusing spirits with tea is a delightful way to add nuanced flavors to cocktails. For this recipe, the bold, citrusy notes of bergamot in Earl Grey perfectly complement the sweet, vanilla, and oak undertones of bourbon. The process is straightforward, requiring only time and patience, but the result is a beautifully balanced spirit ready to form the base of an unforgettable Old Fashioned.
In these challenging times, when the world can feel a bit gloomy and overwhelming, having a go-to comfort food or drink is invaluable. This Earl Grey Old Fashioned is precisely that for me—a small, comforting bliss that brings a touch of warmth and elegance to any evening.
Why Earl Grey and Bourbon are the Perfect Pair
Earl Grey tea is renowned for its distinctive flavor, primarily derived from bergamot oil, which imparts a fragrant, citrusy, and slightly floral aroma. This bright, zesty character beautifully cuts through the richness of bourbon, which typically offers notes of caramel, vanilla, oak, and sometimes a hint of spice. When these two profiles meld, the result is a harmonious blend where the tea adds an unexpected layer of sophistication without overpowering the spirit.
The infusion process allows the delicate aromatics of the tea to gently penetrate the bourbon, creating a spirit that is both comforting and complex. Unlike adding a tea syrup, which can dilute the bourbon and add unnecessary sweetness, the infusion directly flavors the alcohol, preserving its integrity while introducing a delightful new dimension. This subtle transformation makes the Earl Grey Old Fashioned a truly unique and elevated drinking experience.
For the ultimate pairing, consider serving this exquisite cocktail alongside a scoop of Earl Grey ice cream. The cool, creamy dessert echoes the tea notes of the drink, creating a perfect symphony of flavors and a truly indulgent sweet treat.
table of contents
Toggle
This Recipe’s Must-Haves
To truly master the Earl Grey Old Fashioned and achieve that perfect balance of flavor and presentation, here are a few essential tools and ingredients you’ll want to have on hand:
- Tovolo Sphere Ice Molds: Large, slow-melting ice spheres are crucial for an Old Fashioned. They chill your drink without diluting it too quickly, allowing you to savor every complex note of the tea-infused bourbon. Plus, they look incredibly elegant in a glass.
- Quality Bitters: The right bitters are the soul of an Old Fashioned. Ensure you have Angostura Aromatic Bitters for their classic, spicy, and herbal depth, and Fee Brothers West Indian Orange Bitters to enhance the citrusy notes from the Earl Grey and add an extra layer of bright complexity.
- Marquis by Waterford Markham Double Old Fashioned Glasses: While not the exact ones pictured, a heavy, well-made Old Fashioned glass (also known as a rocks glass) is essential for this cocktail. It feels substantial in hand and perfectly accommodates a large ice cube, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Earl Grey Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 1 Earl Grey tea bag: Opt for a high-quality tea bag or loose leaf tea for the best flavor infusion.
- 1 cup bourbon your favorite kind: Choose a smooth, medium-bodied bourbon that you enjoy drinking neat. The tea will enhance its existing flavors, so start with a good base.
- 2 oz Earl Grey Infused Bourbon: This is the star of the show!
- 1/2 oz simple syrup: Balances the bitterness of the tea and the strength of the bourbon. Adjust to your preferred sweetness level.
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters: Provides classic aromatic complexity, tying all the flavors together.
- 2 dashes orange bitters: Enhances the citrus notes from the Earl Grey, adding a bright zest.
- Ice: Large format ice (like spheres or large cubes) is recommended to minimize dilution and keep the drink perfectly chilled.
Instructions
-
Step 1: Infuse the Bourbon. Combine your chosen bourbon with the Earl Grey tea bag in an airtight container. Seal it tightly and allow it to infuse for at least 24 hours at room temperature. For a stronger tea flavor, you can extend the infusion time slightly, but be careful not to over-infuse, which can lead to bitterness. Once infused, remove the tea bag and discard it. Store the tea-infused bourbon in a sealed bottle.
-
Step 2: Prepare Your Glass. To make the cocktail, take a double-old fashioned glass. Add the simple syrup, both the Angostura and orange bitters, and the measured amount of your delicious Earl Grey infused bourbon to the glass.
-
Step 3: Stir to Combine. Use a bar spoon to stir the ingredients together thoroughly. The goal is to fully dissolve the simple syrup and integrate all the flavors before adding ice. Stir for about 15-20 seconds.
-
Step 4: Add Ice. Place a large ice cube or sphere into the glass. This ensures your cocktail stays chilled without rapid dilution.
-
Step 5: Final Stir and Serve. Give the cocktail one final gentle stir to integrate the ice and slightly chill the drink before serving. You can optionally garnish with an orange peel or a fresh lemon twist to further enhance the citrus notes.
Tips for Crafting the Perfect Earl Grey Old Fashioned
While the recipe is straightforward, a few expert tips can elevate your Earl Grey Old Fashioned from good to extraordinary:
Choosing Your Bourbon Wisely
The quality of your bourbon significantly impacts the final taste. Since the Earl Grey is an enhancer, not a cover-up, choose a bourbon you genuinely enjoy on its own. A mid-range bourbon with smooth notes of vanilla, caramel, and a hint of spice works beautifully. Avoid anything overly harsh or extremely smoky, as these might clash with the delicate tea flavor. Brands like Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, or Woodford Reserve are excellent choices that provide a solid foundation for infusion.
The Art of Infusion: Timing is Everything
The suggested 24-hour infusion time is a good starting point. However, the ideal duration can vary depending on the strength of your tea and your personal preference. Taste a small amount of the bourbon after 12 hours. If you prefer a more pronounced tea flavor, continue infusing, checking every few hours. Over-infusing can lead to a bitter, tannic taste, so it’s better to under-infuse and add a stronger tea note next time than to ruin a batch of good bourbon.
Simple Syrup: Homemade is Best
Making your own simple syrup is incredibly easy and offers a cleaner taste than store-bought versions. Simply combine equal parts granulated sugar and hot water, stir until the sugar dissolves, then let it cool. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a month. This fresh syrup contributes a pure sweetness that balances the bourbon and bitters without introducing unwanted flavors.
The Role of Bitters
Bitters are the spices of cocktails, adding depth and complexity. Angostura bitters provide a classic backbone with notes of cinnamon, clove, and other botanicals. The orange bitters specifically enhance the bergamot in the Earl Grey, creating a cohesive citrus profile. Don’t skip them, as they are integral to the Old Fashioned experience. If you’re feeling adventurous, you could experiment with other citrus bitters or even a touch of ginger bitters for a spicier kick.
Garnish: The Final Flourish
A well-chosen garnish adds both aromatic delight and visual appeal. An orange peel is traditional for an Old Fashioned, and in this case, it perfectly complements the citrus notes of the Earl Grey. Express the oils from the peel over the drink by twisting it before dropping it in or draping it over the rim. A lemon twist can also work beautifully if you prefer a sharper citrus aroma.
Serving Suggestions and Food Pairings
The Earl Grey Old Fashioned is a versatile cocktail that can be enjoyed in various settings. Its comforting yet sophisticated profile makes it suitable for:
- An Evening Wind-Down: Perfect for a quiet night in, perhaps paired with a good book or some mellow jazz.
- Small Gatherings: Impress your guests with this unique and unexpected twist on a classic.
- Dessert Companion: Its aromatic qualities make it a fantastic alternative to a dessert wine or brandy.
Beyond the Glass: Food Pairings
Consider pairing your Earl Grey Old Fashioned with:
- Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate harmonizes beautifully with the bourbon and tea.
- Cheesecake or Panna Cotta: Creamy desserts provide a lovely contrast to the robust drink.
- Cheese Board: Hard cheeses like aged cheddar or gouda, along with some dried fruits and nuts, can complement the cocktail’s rich flavors.
- Roasted Nuts: Simple, salted roasted nuts are always a classic pairing with any Old Fashioned.
Frequently Asked Questions About the Earl Grey Old Fashioned
How long should I infuse the bourbon with Earl Grey tea?
A 24-hour infusion is generally recommended for a balanced flavor. However, you can adjust this based on your preference for a stronger or more subtle tea note. Taste test after 12 hours and then every few hours until you reach your desired intensity. Be careful not to go beyond 36-48 hours, as the tea can release tannins and become bitter.
Can I use other types of tea for infusion?
Absolutely! While Earl Grey is fantastic, feel free to experiment with other teas. Chamomile tea can create a wonderfully soothing and floral bourbon. Smoked tea (like Lapsang Souchong) could add a dramatic, campfire-like note. Green tea or jasmine tea could offer a lighter, more herbaceous profile. Always remember to adjust infusion times as different teas have varying strengths.
What if I don’t have orange bitters?
While orange bitters enhance the Earl Grey’s bergamot beautifully, you can still make a delicious cocktail without them. You could simply use more Angostura bitters (e.g., 3-4 dashes) or, if you have it, try a dash of an aromatic citrus liqueur like Cointreau or Grand Marnier for a touch of orange flavor. A fresh orange peel twist as a garnish is also essential to add those aromatic oils.
How can I make simple syrup at home?
Making simple syrup is incredibly easy! Combine equal parts granulated sugar and water in a saucepan. Heat gently over medium heat, stirring until the sugar is completely dissolved. Do not boil. Remove from heat and let it cool completely before using. Store in an airtight bottle or jar in the refrigerator for up to one month. For a rich simple syrup, use two parts sugar to one part water for a thicker consistency and sweeter profile.
Conclusion: Your New Go-To Comfort Drink
The Earl Grey Old Fashioned is a testament to how small, thoughtful adjustments can elevate a classic into something truly special. It’s a drink that bridges the gap between cherished memories and sophisticated sips, offering a unique blend of comfort and elegance. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or simply looking for a new way to unwind, this tea-infused bourbon creation is sure to become a favorite. So go ahead, treat yourself to this warming, aromatic indulgence – you deserve a moment of blissful calm.