When Proof Syrup first launched, it was all about making the perfect Old Fashioned cocktail easier to craft at home. This iconic drink, known for its balance of bitters, sugar, and citrus, inspired the founders to create a syrup that combined these elements into one simple, ready-to-use product. The result was a game-changer for cocktail lovers who wanted quality without the fuss.
The Birth of Proof Syrup: Simplifying the Old Fashioned
The story of Proof Syrup begins in a cocktail bar in Decatur, Georgia. Bartenders there were passionate about the Old Fashioned but knew the process could be time-consuming. Mixing sugar, bitters, and fresh citrus oils every time slowed down service and made it tricky for home enthusiasts to replicate the bar experience.
To solve this, the founders blended these ingredients into a single syrup. This innovation allowed anyone to quickly and consistently create a classic Old Fashioned without sacrificing flavor. The first three flavors, Traditional, Maple Bacon, and Pecan, debuted in 2014, marking the start of a brand dedicated to craft cocktail convenience.
What Makes the Traditional Old Fashioned Syrup Special?
- Authentic Ingredients: The Traditional syrup uses organic cane sugar, real citrus oils, and aromatic bitters, staying true to the original cocktail’s profile.
- No Preservatives: Proof Syrup uses fresh, natural ingredients instead of preservatives to keep the flavor bright and genuine.
- Long Shelf Life: Despite its fresh ingredients, the Traditional Old Fashioned syrup lasts up to two years unopened, making it a reliable staple for any home bar.
This syrup is designed not just for Old Fashioneds but also works well in Manhattans, 75s, and other classic cocktails, giving it versatility beyond its original inspiration. In fact, many mixologists have begun to experiment with the syrup in modern twists on traditional drinks, showcasing its adaptability. The rich, complex flavors of the syrup can elevate even the simplest of cocktails, allowing bartenders and home enthusiasts alike to craft unique beverages with ease.
The rise of craft cocktail culture has driven a growing demand for high-quality ingredients suitable for a variety of settings. Proof Syrup has tapped into this trend by not only offering a product that simplifies cocktail-making but also emphasizing quality and authenticity. As more people explore the art of mixology at home, the Traditional Old Fashioned syrup stands out as a must-have, bridging convenience and craftsmanship in every bottle.
Why The Old Fashioned Remains a Timeless Classic
The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest known cocktails, prized for its simplicity and balance. It combines sugar, bitters, water, and whiskey, garnished with citrus and sometimes a cherry. The cocktail’s charm lies in its straightforward ingredients and the way they highlight the spirit’s character. This drink has a rich history dating back to the early 19th century, when it was first called a "whiskey cocktail." Over the decades, it has evolved, yet its core elements have remained remarkably consistent, making it a favorite among both casual drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs alike.
Proof Syrup’s Traditional flavor captures this essence by including all the key components in a single bottle. This approach respects the drink’s heritage while making it accessible for anyone, regardless of bartending experience. The convenience of having a ready-to-use syrup means that even those who may not be familiar with the intricacies of cocktail crafting can whip up a delightful Old Fashioned in moments. This democratization of cocktail culture encourages more people to explore and appreciate the art of mixology.
How Proof Syrup Honors Craft Cocktail Traditions
Proof Syrup’s philosophy centers on quality and authenticity. By hand-mixing, cooking, and bottling in small batches in Atlanta, Georgia, the brand maintains a craft approach. The syrups avoid shortcuts like artificial flavors or preservatives, which can dull the taste. Each batch is carefully crafted to ensure that the flavors are vibrant and true to the original cocktail, allowing the nuances of the whiskey to shine through. This dedication to craftsmanship not only honors traditional cocktail-making methods but also supports local ingredients and sustainable practices.
The result is a product that brings professional mixology into the home, allowing drinkers to enjoy a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned without the hassle of measuring bitters or squeezing fresh citrus every time. With Proof Syrup, enthusiasts can experiment with variations of the Old Fashioned by trying different whiskey types or adding unique garnishes while still relying on the syrup's foundational flavors. This flexibility invites creativity and personal expression, ensuring each drink reflects the individual's taste while still paying homage to the classic roots of this beloved cocktail.
Expanding Beyond the Old Fashioned: Proof Syrup’s Product Line
While the Old Fashioned syrup was the original inspiration, Proof Syrup has grown to offer over 20 flavors across multiple collections. These include other Old Fashioned variations and classic cocktail syrups designed for a wide range of drinks.
Old Fashioned Syrup Collection
- Maple Bacon: A smoky-sweet twist with maple and bacon notes, perfect for whiskey lovers seeking bold flavors.
- Pecan: Adds a nutty richness with roasted pecan flavor, deepening the whiskey experience.
- Pumpkin Spice: Seasonal spices like cinnamon and clove bring autumn warmth to cocktails.
- Black Walnut: Earthy and slightly bitter, this syrup adds complexity to darker spirits.
Classic Cocktail Syrups
Proof Syrup also offers syrups crafted for other iconic drinks, making cocktail creation even easier:
- Orange: Bright citrus oils are ideal for margaritas, daiquiris, and gin cocktails.
- Whiskey Sour: A balanced sour blend ready for whiskey sours and similar drinks.
- Sazerac: Herbaceous with anise and bitters notes, perfect for the New Orleans classic.
- Manhattan: Concentrated bitters and vermouth flavors for smooth Manhattans.
- Margarita: Lime and orange forward, tailored for tequila cocktails.
Using Proof Old Fashioned Syrup for Quick, Quality Cocktails
One of the biggest advantages of Proof Syrup is its ability to speed up cocktail making. Instead of gathering multiple ingredients and measuring each, just add the syrup to your spirit, stir or shake, garnish, and serve.
This simplicity doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor. Each syrup is carefully balanced to deliver the right sweetness, bitterness, and aromatic notes. Whether you’re hosting a party or enjoying a quiet evening, Proof Syrup helps you create bar-quality drinks in under a minute.
Tips for Getting the Most From Your Proof Syrup
- Shake Well: Always shake the bottle before use to mix any settled ingredients.
- Refrigerate After Opening: Keep opened bottles refrigerated to maintain freshness and flavor.
- Watch the Expiration: Shelf life varies by flavor, from 3 months for some fruit-forward syrups to 2 years for Old Fashioned varieties.
- Experiment: Use the syrups beyond classic cocktails-try them in spritzes, punches, or even culinary recipes.
Allergy and Dietary Considerations
Proof Syrup offers many nut-free flavors, including Traditional, Maple Bacon, Pumpkin Spice, and several herbal varieties, such as Basil and Rosemary. Since tree nuts are processed in the same facility, those with severe nut allergies should exercise caution.
Most syrups are gluten-free and vegan, except for Honey and Maple Bacon flavors. None contain grape products, and only a few have cinnamon or cloves, mostly in the Old Fashioned line.
Bringing Craft Cocktails Home With Proof Syrup
Proof Syrup started with a simple idea: make the Old Fashioned easier to enjoy at home without losing its craft quality. Today, it continues to deliver on that promise with a wide range of syrups that simplify cocktail making while honoring authentic flavors.
Whether you’re a seasoned home bartender or just starting out, Proof Syrup offers a straightforward way to create delicious, balanced cocktails quickly. Explore their collection and discover how this brand’s original inspiration can elevate your next drink.
Ready to try? Check out Proof Syrup’s selection and bring the craft cocktail experience to your home bar.
Take Your Cocktails to the Next Level with Proof Syrup
Ready to impress with bar-quality cocktails right from your home? With Proof Syrup, crafting the perfect Old Fashioned and other classic drinks has never been simpler. Say goodbye to complex recipes and hello to effortless sophistication. Shop Now and transform your home bartending experience with our all-natural syrups. Perfect cocktails await!
