A L'Ancienne du Bois (A woody Old Fashioned)

The story

The A L'Ancienne du Bois is a modern twist on the classic Old Fashioned, incorporating brandy as its base spirit. Its roots can be traced back to the resurgence of craft cocktails in the early 21st century, where bartenders began experimenting with different spirits and flavors. The combination of cognac and walnut liqueur offers a unique profile that pays homage to traditional cocktail methods while introducing new elements that appeal to contemporary palates.

How it tastes

This cocktail features a rich, nutty flavor from the walnut liqueur, balanced by the sweetness of maple syrup and the fruity notes of cherries. The cognac adds depth and warmth, making it a suitable choice for sipping during cooler evenings or as a sophisticated after-dinner drink.

Getting it right

The key to a successful A L'Ancienne du Bois lies in the muddling technique. Properly muddling the cherries with bitters and maple syrup releases their flavors, while careful stirring ensures the ingredients blend without diluting the drink too much. Using quality cognac and walnut liqueur will also enhance the overall taste.

Variations

• Aged Old Fashioned — Substituting bourbon for cognac and adding a few drops of smoked bitters for a deeper flavor.
• Maple Walnut Old Fashioned — Using bourbon as the base and increasing the maple syrup for a sweeter profile.

Substitutions

• Cognac — Brandy or any high-quality aged spirit can be used in place of cognac.
• Nocello — Any walnut liqueur or even hazelnut liqueur can serve as a substitute.
• Peychaud's Bitters — Angostura bitters can be used if Peychaud's is unavailable.

Questions

Can I use a different type of bitters?

Yes, while Peychaud's is traditional, Angostura or orange bitters can also work well, depending on your flavor preference.

Is there a non-alcoholic version of this cocktail?

Creating a non-alcoholic version can be done by replacing the spirits with non-alcoholic alternatives, using cherry syrup and a nut-flavored syrup for complexity.

What glass should I use for serving?

An Old-fashioned glass is ideal for this cocktail, as it allows for the muddling and stirring processes while showcasing the drink's visual appeal.

This text was drafted by a language model from the catalogue’s data and is machine-translated outside English.

Updated October 5, 2026