Mess Hall Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 2 oz Four Branches Founders Blend (bacon fat-washed)
- ¼ oz Maple Syrup
- 3 dashes Black Walnut Bitters
- Candied Bacon for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Add all ingredients to a cocktail mixing glass with ice and stir well.
- 2. Pour over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- 3. Garnish with candied bacon.
Overview
The Mess Hall Old Fashioned is a savory spin on the classic Old Fashioned, blending bourbon with maple, walnut bitters, and a bacon fat-washed twist. Crafted with Four Branches Bourbon – Founders Blend, this cocktail captures the hearty, comforting flavors of a communal meal shared among comrades.
Meaning Behind the Name
The “Mess Hall Old Fashioned” is a nod to the communal dining spaces in the military where service members come together to share meals and stories over hearty, comforting food. The flavors of maple and bacon recall the down-to-earth dishes found in a mess hall. This drink honors camaraderie, warmth, and the rich, familiar flavors that evoke a sense of home and shared experience.
Flavor Profile
Smoky and savory with a hint of sweetness. The bacon fat-wash adds depth and umami, balanced by the maple syrup’s smooth sweetness and the nutty bitterness of black walnut bitters.
Tips & Variations
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Skip the bacon fat-wash for a simpler version that still highlights bourbon and maple.
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Swap black walnut bitters for standard Angostura bitters for a more traditional Old Fashioned profile.
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Use smoked maple syrup for extra depth.
Pairing Notes
Perfect with BBQ, smoked meats, or anything featuring rich, salty flavors. It also pairs beautifully with dark chocolate desserts or a cheese board heavy on sharp cheddar and blue cheese.