The hosts delve into the Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Competition, revealing its surprising appeal to Millennials and Gen Z. They share their adventures with vintage spirits, including a vermouth-making experiment, and discuss how aged bourbons elevate the drinking experience. The Old Fashioned emerges as a sophisticated choice, attracting younger drinkers with its timeless charm. Insights into cocktail culture, the allure of unique ingredients, and memorable tasting experiences spice up the conversation, highlighting the evolving nature of bourbon appreciation.
The Old Fashioned has gained popularity among Millennials and Gen Z as a sophisticated yet straightforward bourbon cocktail choice.
Discussions on vintage bourbons reveal a generational divide in perceptions of flavor quality and cocktail preparation artistry.
Deep dives
Experiences with Hotel Sleep Quality
Many travelers struggle to sleep well in hotels, particularly when staying alone or in unfamiliar environments. This discomfort often stems from various factors, including inconsistent pillow quality and unfamiliar bedding. Some individuals, like the speaker's father, suggest bringing personal pillows for comfort, a practice that may seem excessive but offers a solution for restless nights. The discussion highlights the challenge of achieving restful sleep during travel and the different strategies individuals employ to enhance their hotel stay experience.
The Vintage Bourbon Experience
The podcast shares insights from a recent trip to Louisville, where the hosts examined the appeal of vintage bourbons. They discussed tasting experiences, including a remarkable Maker's Mark from the 1970s and a Colonel Taylor from 1988, which sparked debate about the true value and uniqueness of older spirits. The hosts noted that while some bourbons did exhibit a difference in flavor due to age, others felt similar to contemporary bourbons. This conversation reflects the ongoing exploration of bourbon's rich history and the perceived value of vintage labels versus modern expressions.
The Rise of the Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned cocktail has emerged as a preferred choice for younger generations visiting Louisville, distinguishing itself from other classic cocktails like the Manhattan. Bartenders noted that millennials and Gen Z patrons often gravitate towards this simple yet sophisticated drink. The appeal lies in its straightforward preparation, allowing customers to enjoy the spirit's flavor while still being a cocktail. The conversation reflects the cocktail's growing popularity, as it offers a familiar and enjoyable entry point into the world of bourbon for many drinkers.
Generational Perspectives on Cocktails
The podcast explores how perceptions of classic cocktails vary between generations, particularly regarding the Old Fashioned and Manhattan. Younger drinkers tend to view the Old Fashioned through a lens of sophistication, largely shaped by cultural references and modern cocktail bars. In contrast, older generations may associate the Old Fashioned with a less appealing version of the drink that includes muddled fruits and overly sweet flavors. This generational divide illustrates how cocktail culture has evolved and how newer drinkers appreciate the artistry of modern cocktail preparation.
Adam, Joanna, and Zach discuss some takeaways from the recent Elijah Craig Old Fashioned Competition, including the relative merits of cocktails made from vintage spirits, and the somewhat surprising fact that the Old Fashioned is the clear bourbon cocktail of choice for Millennials and Gen Z. Please remember to subscribe to, rate, and review VinePair on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your episodes, and send any questions, comments, critiques, or suggestions to podcast@vinepair.com. Thanks for listening, and be well.