Old Overholt Cocktail: Timeless Elegance in a Glass

A classic cocktail with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters

If you’re a fan of classic cocktails, you must have heard about the Old Overholt Cocktail. It’s a classic whiskey drink that has been enjoyed since the late 19th century.

Old Overholt Cocktail recipe

Named after Old Overholt Rye Whiskey – one of the oldest brands of straight rye whiskey in the US, the drink has a rich history dating back to the 1810s. This cocktail boasts a robust and distinctive rye flavor profile combined with sweet vermouth and bitters. I’m not a fan of this drink, but I cannot deny the undeniable appeal and character it holds.

A glass of Old Overholt Cocktail, garnished with lime wedge
Cocktail with Old Overholt

This drink is often served straight up and is appreciated for its simplicity and depth, making it suitable for both cocktail enthusiasts and casual drinkers. Here’s how to make the Old Overholt Cocktail:

A classic cocktail with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters

Old Overholt Cocktail

A timeless drink with a hint of sweetness and a dash of bitters. It's a classic whiskey-based drink featuring Old Overholt rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
4.45 from 9 votes
Total Time 6 minutes
Course Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 1
Calories 160 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 ounces Old Overholt Rye Whiskey
  • 3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
  • 1/4 tsp Angostura bitters
  • Ice cubes
  • Orange twist or maraschino cherry for garnish optional

Instructions
 

  • Fill a mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice cubes.
  • Pour in the Old Overholt Rye Whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
  • Stir the mixture well for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the drink slightly.
  • Strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe glass or over fresh ice in a rocks glass, depending on your preference.
  • Garnish with an orange twist or maraschino cherry if desired.

Nutrition

Calories: 160kcal
Keyword alcoholic drinks, classic cocktail, old overholt cocktail
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This classic drink shares many similarities with the Manhattan. However, they have distinct characteristics. The base spirit of the Old Overholt is Old Overholt Rye Whiskey, while the base spirit of the Manhattan is any rye or bourbon whiskey. The Old Overholt is often used. That’s why these two cocktails are often confused.

How to pair

The Old Overholt Cocktail is a perfect match for a variety of foods that complement its rich, smooth flavor. Here are some pairing ideas to enhance this classic rye whiskey drink:

1. Dessert Pairings

  • Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate complements the sweetness of vermouth in the cocktail.
  • Fruit Tarts: Berry-filled tarts add a touch of tartness that balances the drink’s richness and enhances its fruity undertones.
  • Cheesecake: The creamy, decadent texture of cheesecake pairs perfectly with the cocktail’s smooth character.

2. Food Pairings

  • Charcuterie Board: The cocktail’s bold, spicy notes pair beautifully with cured meats like prosciutto and salami, alongside aged cheddar or blue cheese.
  • Grilled Meats: Grilled steak or barbecue ribs bring out the whiskey’s depth and spiciness, making for a hearty combination.
  • Savory Appetizers: Enjoy it with bruschetta, stuffed mushrooms, or olives to balance the cocktail’s flavors.
  • Nuts: Salted almonds or spiced pecans offer a crunchy contrast to the drink’s smooth finish.

9 thoughts on “Old Overholt Cocktail: Timeless Elegance in a Glass”

  1. 5 stars
    Made this for my dad on Father’s Day. He’s an old-school whiskey drinker and he couldn’t stop raving about it. Thanks for making me look good

    Reply
  2. 5 stars
    Great cocktail, but I found it a tad strong for my taste. Next time I might add a splash more simple syrup. Still, it’s a solid recipe if you like your drinks on the stiffer side

    Reply
  3. 4 stars
    Love a good Old Fashioned, and this Old Overholt version didn’t disappoint. The rye gives it a different character than bourbon. Took me a couple sips to get used to it, but now I’m hooked!

    Reply
4.45 from 9 votes

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