Old Hickory


A stirred vermouth blend created as a low-ABV homage to Andrew Jackson.


Base spirit
Vermouth
Style
Spirit-forward
Glassware
Coupe

The Old Hickory is a sophisticated low-ABV cocktail that blends equal parts dry and sweet vermouth, seasoned with both orange and Peychaud's bitters. It drinks like a lighter, wine-based Manhattan, offering complexity from the interplay of the two vermouth styles. It is named after Andrew Jackson ('Old Hickory') and dates back to the turn of the 20th century. It is a perfect sessionable sipping drink for those who love stirred cocktails.


An Old Hickory in a coupe with a lemon twist.

Ingredients

Servings
  • 1.5 oz dry vermouth
  • 1.5 oz sweet vermouth
  • 2 dashes orange bitters
  • 2 dashes Peychaud's bitters

Did you know?

The drink serves as a lighter alternative to the Bamboo or Adonis, notable for using Peychaud's bitters which gives it a slight creole aromatic lift.

Source:Vintage bar manuals; PunchDrink

Bartender's Note

Use high-quality vermouths (like Dolin and Carpano) since there is no spirit to hide behind.

How to make the Old Hickory

  1. 1Add both vermouths and bitters to a mixing glass with ice
  2. 2Stir until well chilled
  3. 3Strain into a chilled coupe
  4. 4Garnish with a lemon twist

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