Beacon Old Fashioned

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes for Beacon Old Fashioned

Sheringham Distillery creates this unique gin old fashioned that delivers complex fruity and bitter flavors in perfect balance. The Beacon Gin brings elegant floral notes from cherry blossoms and yuzu citrus that transform the traditional whiskey cocktail into something entirely new. The sour cherry tea syrup adds tartness and depth while the orange bitters provide warm spice notes.

This cocktail finishes with bright citrus from the grapefruit zest and sweet-tart cherry flavors that linger on the palate. The gin’s green tea botanicals create a smooth, herbaceous backdrop that balances the fruit-forward elements. Unlike traditional old fashioneds, this version offers lighter, more delicate flavors while maintaining the spirit-forward character that defines the classic cocktail style.

Recipe Variations and Customizations

This versatile cocktail adapts easily to different tastes and occasions with simple ingredient swaps and preparation methods. You can adjust the sweetness by using regular simple syrup instead of cherry tea syrup, or increase the cherry flavor with maraschino liqueur additions.

Popular Customization Options

• Replace cherry tea syrup with fresh rhubarb liqueur for tartness
• Add a splash of sparkling water for a lighter, effervescent version
• Use lemon zest instead of grapefruit for brighter citrus notes
• Serve over one large ice cube in a rocks glass for slower dilution
• Create a batch version by multiplying ingredients and storing in the refrigerator
• Make alcohol-free by replacing gin with non-alcoholic botanical spirits

Equipment, Preparation and Make-Ahead Tips for Beacon Old Fashioned

This cocktail requires basic bar tools and benefits from proper technique to achieve the best flavor extraction. A muddler helps release oils from the grapefruit zest, while a bar spoon ensures proper stirring and dilution. The key technique involves gentle muddling to avoid bitter pith extraction from the citrus zest.

Essential Preparation Steps

• Use a heavy-bottomed rocks glass that can withstand muddling pressure
• Prepare garnishes in advance by cutting grapefruit zest and selecting preserved cherries
• Chill glasses in the freezer for 10 minutes before serving
• Make cherry tea syrup ahead and store in refrigerator for up to two weeks
• Use large, clear ice cubes to minimize dilution and enhance presentation
• Stir for 30-45 seconds to achieve proper temperature and dilution

Perfect Occasions and Food Pairings for Beacon Old Fashioned

This sophisticated cocktail works beautifully for evening entertaining and special occasions when you want to impress guests with something unique. The fruity, spirit-forward profile makes it ideal for autumn and winter months when cherry and citrus flavors provide warmth and comfort.

Ideal Food Pairings

• Dark chocolate desserts that complement the cherry and bitter notes
• Aged cheeses like gouda or manchego that balance the gin’s botanicals
• Charcuterie boards featuring duck or cherry-glazed meats
• Roasted nuts and dried fruits for casual appetizer pairings
• Rich, creamy desserts that contrast with the cocktail’s brightness

Beacon Old Fashioned Cocktail History and Similar Drinks

This modern cocktail represents the craft movement’s approach to reimagining classic recipes with contemporary ingredients and techniques. The old fashioned originated in the 1880s as a way to enjoy spirits in their most basic form, and this gin version honors that tradition while showcasing botanical complexity.

The drink connects to other gin-based classics in Sheringham’s collection that highlight the distillery’s innovative approach to traditional cocktail structures. Similar cocktails include the Martinez and gin-based Boulevardiers, which also feature the interplay between gin’s botanicals and fruit flavors. This recipe demonstrates how modern distillers create new expressions of beloved classics.

Nutritional Information and Dietary Considerations for Beacon Old Fashioned

Each serving contains approximately 180-200 calories, primarily from the alcohol content and cherry tea syrup. The cocktail provides moderate sugar content from the syrup, while the gin base offers gluten-free alcohol for those with wheat sensitivities. Most ingredients are naturally vegan-friendly, making this cocktail suitable for plant-based diets.

The alcohol content measures approximately 20% ABV per serving, making this a strong cocktail best enjoyed slowly. You can reduce calories by using sugar-free syrups or reducing the syrup quantity by half. People with cherry allergies should avoid this cocktail, and those watching sugar intake can request London Dry Gin alternatives with different flavor profiles. The preserved cherry garnish adds minimal calories but can be omitted for lower-sugar versions.