The Old Fashioned is the original whisky cocktail. But over the years, there’s been a fair few more added to the menu. One of which is the Boulevardier, whisky’s very own take on the Negroni. 

Both are timeless, rich and expertly crafted. But what’s the difference between these two exceptional drinks?

In this guide, we’ll delve into the origins, recipes, taste and serving styles of the Old Fashioned and Boulevardier – so you’ll know exactly which to order next.

The Boulevardier first hit the cocktail scene in the 1920s when Erskine Gwynne, an American expat in Paris, named a new creation after his monthly magazine. The cocktail captured the sophisticated yet rebellious spirit of the era, blending whisky with Campari and sweet vermouth.

The Old Fashioned has an even more storied past, dating back to the early 19th century when it emerged as one of the earliest known cocktails. 

Originally a simple mix of spirits, sugar, water and bitters, the Old Fashioned has become a celebrated whisky cocktail, symbolising the elegance and simplicity of classic mixology. The recipe represents a more traditional approach to cocktail crafting, letting the craft of the whisky stay front and centre on the palette.

The Boulevardier is a balanced blend of equal parts whisky, sweet vermouth and Campari. Each of which are mixed with ice, then strained into a chilled cocktail glass. It’s essentially a Negroni made with scotch, resulting in a bolder, more warming serve.

A Boulevardier can be made with any type of whisky, but as experts in the field, our preference is a smooth, creamy scotch. We use The Glenlivet 15 Year Old whisky, a distinctively rich expression with notes of spice, almond and fruits. Find out more about the best whiskies for a Boulevardier.

The addition of an orange twist not only enhances the visual appeal but also adds a subtle citrus aroma that complements the drink’s bittersweet complexity.

Similarly, the Old Fashioned is crafted with a focus on balance, but its simplicity sets it apart. It involves muddling a sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water, then adding whisky and a large ice cube. 

The stirring process is gentle, ensuring that the sugar dissolves completely and the flavours meld seamlessly. Like many classic whisky cocktails, it also calls for an orange twist. But some prefer a cherry for a sweeter garnish.

Much like the Boulevardier, you can experiment with various whiskies when creating an Old Fashioned. Many prefer bourbon for a sweeter serve. But we prefer the fine, quality pour of single malt scotch. The Glenlivet 12 Year Old is our go to for an Old Fashioned, a delightful way to experience our signature bottle’s unique flavour profile.

The Old Fashioned is a straightforward drink that really puts whisky in the limelight. A touch of sugar and bitters elevate the spirit’s naturally sweet and aromatic flavours. Resulting a smooth, cool sipping experience.

The Boulevardier is similarly sophisticated. But with the addition of bittersweet Campari and herbal sweet vermouth, it results in a richer, more complex taste. It’s bold, balanced and delicious. A perfect aperitif.

Both the Boulevardier and Old Fashioned are traditionally served in a tumbler, a short glass otherwise known as an ‘on the rocks glass’ that suits stronger drinks. This glassware is best suited for slow sippers that gently dilute with a large ice cube. It also concentrates the aromas providing a more intense sensory experience.

Both the Boulevardier and the Old Fashioned have inspired plenty of variations, allowing whisky enthusiasts to explore new flavours and combinations. Here are some of favourite innovative twists on these classic cocktails:

A modern take on the Old Fashioned, the New Fashioned introduces fresh ingredients while maintaining the classic cocktail’s essence. By incorporating a hint of citrus and a touch of herbal complexity, this variation brings a new dimension to the traditional mix. It’s perfect for those looking to refresh their whisky experience without straying too far from the original.

This delightful twist on the Old Fashioned replaces the sugar cube with honey, adding a smooth, natural sweetness that pairs beautifully with The Glenlivet whisky. The honey not only enhances the drink’s flavour but also provides a rich, velvety texture. Sip a Honey Old Fashioned on a cosy evening by the fire for a comforting and indulgent sip.

For those who can’t help but order the sweeter, more dessert-like cocktails, the Chocolate Old Fashioned is a must-try. By infusing the classic Old Fashioned with chocolate bitters or a splash of crème de cacao, this version adds a layer of luxury. It’s an elegant and indulgent treat that’s sure to impress guests and satisfy sweet-toothed whisky lovers.

The original Boulevardier recipe can be tweaked as you like, with variations like the Spicy Boulevardier, which adds a dash of spicy bitters for an extra kick, and the Boulevardier Spritz, which tops the classic recipe with a splash of soda water, creating an effervescent and refreshing version perfect for summer gatherings.

For more recipes you might like, take a look at these drinks similar to a Negroni as well as our very own Old Fashioned variations.

Whether you’re drawn to the bittersweet complexity of the Boulevardier or the classic elegance of the Old Fashioned, each cocktail offers a unique way to experience The Glenlivet’s exceptional whisky. By understanding their origins, mastering their preparation and exploring variations, you can impress your guests and elevate your whisky enjoyment. 

For more whisky cocktail inspiration, check out our collection of whisky cocktail recipes including variations on a Whisky Sour and classic cocktails to make with The Glenlivet.