The Kansas Old Fashioned is a tribute to regional craftsmanship, taking the world’s most iconic whiskey cocktail and giving it a distinct “Heartland” soul. By using a historic Kansas City spirit and elevated sweeteners, we’ve created a version that is smoother and more complex than the traditional recipe.
The Details: A rich, spirit-forward classic featuring a historic regional whiskey and artisanal bitters.
Price: $12
The Build:
- The Spirit: J. Rieger & Co. Kansas City Whiskey.
- The Sweetener: Rich Demerara syrup.
- The Bitters: A balanced blend of Angostura and orange bitters.
- The Garnish: An expressed orange peel and an Amarena cherry.
A Taste of Kansas History
We chose J. Rieger & Co. Kansas City Whiskey because it is a liquid piece of history. This isn’t just a standard bourbon or rye; it is a unique “pre-Prohibition” style blend. It consists of a high-quality mix of corn, malt, and rye whiskeys, but the real secret is the 15-year-old Oloroso Sherry that is blended into the spirit. This historic technique, once common in the 1800s, adds a deep, dried-fruit complexity and a velvety texture that you won’t find in any other whiskey. It makes for an Old Fashioned that is incredibly smooth with a rich, nutty finish.
The Craft: Demerara & Essential Oils
To complement the weight of the Rieger whiskey, we use Demerara syrup instead of standard white sugar. Demerara is a raw cane sugar that retains more molasses, offering a deeper, toffee-like sweetness. We finish the drink by expressing a fresh orange peel over the glass—squeezing the rind to release the essential oils—which provides a bright, citrusy aroma that hits you before your first sip.
The Point Nine Experience: A Timeless Pairing
The Kansas Old Fashioned is a refined and sturdy choice for a slow evening on the patio. It is the definitive partner for our Trailside Burger. The whiskey’s sherry-influenced sweetness and the hints of molasses in the Demerara syrup act as a perfect foil to the savory, seared crust of the beef and the saltiness of the melted cheese. It is a pairing built for those who appreciate the slower pace of life near the trail.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why is it called “Kansas City Whiskey” if it’s a blend? It is a specific style of whiskey that J. Rieger & Co. resurrected from the 1800s, defined by the addition of a small amount of Sherry to provide a unique character and smoothness.
What is an “expressed” orange peel? It means we twist the peel over your drink to spray the citrus oils across the surface. It adds a fresh scent without making the drink itself too acidic.
Is this a sweet drink? While the Demerara and Sherry add richness, the combination of Angostura and orange bitters keeps the cocktail balanced and sophisticated.