How to Make A Non-Alcoholic Bourbon and Old Fashioned

Summary

In this video, the host demonstrates how to create a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned using a homemade zero-proof bourbon substitute. The recipe includes ingredients like molasses, malted barley, banana peel, oak chips, and non-alcoholic bitters, which are combined through a sous vide method for enhanced flavor. The process is detailed, emphasizing clarity, taste, and preservation of the non-alcoholic spirit. The video also addresses the challenge of adding bitters (which contain alcohol) without exceeding legal limits for non-alcoholic drinks. The final result is a surprisingly flavorful and complex zero-proof cocktail that mimics the traditional Old Fashioned experience.

Takeaways

• 😀 Non-alcoholic cocktails, also known as mocktails or zero-proof drinks, can be made with creative substitutes, such as zero-proof bourbon and non-alcoholic bitters.
• 😀 Zero-proof bourbon can be made with ingredients like molasses, malted barley, banana peel, dried peaches, oak chips, and spices, using a sous vide technique for optimal results.
• 😀 The zero-proof bourbon doesn't replicate the flavor of whiskey exactly but serves as a complex building block in mixed drinks.
• 😀 Zero-proof spirits are not meant to be sipped neat but are ideal for use in mixed drinks like the non-alcoholic Old Fashioned.
• 😀 Angostura Aromatic Bitters, while low in quantity, contain alcohol (44.7% ABV), which can push a drink past the legal limit of .5% alcohol required for a drink to be considered non-alcoholic.
• 😀 Two dashes of Angostura bitters in a non-alcoholic drink requires the drink to be at least 5 ounces (150 milliliters) to stay within the legal non-alcoholic limit.
• 😀 A typical Old Fashioned, even with dilution, tends to max out around 3 ounces, which means you could use one dash of bitters and still keep it non-alcoholic.
• 😀 If you want a true zero-proof Old Fashioned, use homemade non-alcoholic bitters (both aromatic and orange) and a zero-proof bourbon base.
• 😀 Maple syrup is used as the sweetener in the ZerOld Fashioned, adding hints of caramel, vanilla, and prune, although alternatives like rich demerara syrup can also work.
• 😀 The final drink should be garnished with a flamed orange peel to add a special touch, creating a citrus aroma with a little smoke and heat for a flavorful experience.

Q & A

What makes a non-alcoholic cocktail different from a traditional one?

Non-alcoholic cocktails, also known as mocktails or zero-proof cocktails, contain no alcohol but still feature the same flavor complexity and mixology techniques as traditional cocktails. The key difference is the substitution of alcoholic ingredients with non-alcoholic alternatives.

What is a zero-proof bourbon, and how is it made?

A zero-proof bourbon is a non-alcoholic substitute for bourbon, created by infusing ingredients like molasses, malted barley, banana peel, and oak chips. The process involves sous vide cooking to extract flavors, followed by filtration to clarify the liquid.

Why is it difficult to replicate spirit-forward cocktails in a non-alcoholic version?

Spirit-forward cocktails are challenging to replicate because high-proof spirits contribute strong, complex flavors. Recreating this profile in a non-alcoholic form requires carefully selecting ingredients that can mimic the depth and warmth of the original spirits.

What role do bitters play in a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned?

Bitters are crucial for adding depth and complexity to cocktails. In a non-alcoholic Old Fashioned, bitters like Angostura Aromatic Bitters are used to enhance the flavor profile, although they contain alcohol. The inclusion of bitters in small amounts can still maintain the drink's non-alcoholic status.

How much alcohol is present in a cocktail with 2 dashes of Angostura bitters?

Angostura Aromatic Bitters contain 44.7% ABV. Using 2 dashes in a cocktail would contribute a small amount of alcohol, but to keep the drink legally non-alcoholic (under 0.5% ABV), the cocktail must be 5 ounces or more in volume, and contain no other alcohol.

How do you make the Zero-Bourbon at home?

To make Zero-Bourbon, combine 1 liter of water with ingredients like molasses, malted barley, banana peel, dried peaches, and oak chips in a sous vide bag. Cook at 90°C (195°F) for 1 hour, then strain and clarify the liquid using pectinex for better clarity.

What is the significance of clarifying the Zero-Bourbon liquid?

Clarifying the Zero-Bourbon ensures a visually clear and smooth liquid, which enhances the overall presentation and quality of the final cocktail. The process involves using pectinex to accelerate separation of impurities and then filtering the liquid.

Why is it important to store the Zero-Bourbon in the fridge?

Since Zero-Bourbon is not alcohol-based, it lacks preservatives. Storing it in the fridge helps preserve the freshness, and it should be used within 10 days to avoid spoilage.

How do you make a Zero-Old Fashioned cocktail?

To make a Zero-Old Fashioned, combine 1 barspoon of maple syrup, 3 dashes each of non-alcoholic aromatic and orange bitters, and 2.5 oz of Zero-Bourbon in a glass over ice. Stir, garnish with a flamed orange peel, and enjoy a non-alcoholic version of the classic Old Fashioned.

Can you use Zero-Bourbon in other whiskey-based cocktails?

Yes, Zero-Bourbon can be used as a substitute for whiskey in other classic cocktails, offering a non-alcoholic option for those who want to enjoy the flavors without the alcohol content.