To mix or not to mix? That is the question. While the world of old whisky dictates that Scottish whisky should be enjoyed neat with an ice cube or drop of water, we set out to create a different approach altogether.
Our trio of exquisite blends have been distilled and matured to create bespoke flavours which sit proudly apart, redefining the blended malt category from the bottom up. While each expression stands alone as a work of art and exploration of flavour, that’s not to say you can’t experiment with Noble Rebel for yourself. Our recommended serve is the classic Old Fashioned, an undeniably stylish whisky cocktail which is made even better with the twists and quirks of Noble Rebel.
The traditional Old Fashioned - ‘the nectar of the Gods’
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been around for over a century, and like most good things, nobody isquitesure about its origins. The exact inception of the cocktail is somewhat unclear, but the general consensus among cocktail historians is that it was first made in the early 1800s.
The earliest version of the Old Fashioned was simply a mixture of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters, often with different spirits like rum and mezcal. Over time, other ingredients were added, such as muddled fruit and soda water. However, by the late 1800s, the cocktail had evolved back to its original form of whisky, sugar, water, and bitters.
But what made it the ‘Old Fashioned’? The name was first used to describe the cocktail in the 1880s, and it became a popular drink in the USA during the 19th and early 20th centuries.
While fashions changed and the recipe was modified over decades, drinkers would refer to the cocktail and its original charm as the ‘Old Fashioned’ way - and the name has stuck around ever since.
The cocktail was said to be a favourite of many famous figures throughout history, including Mark Twain, who referred to it as the "nectar of the gods."
Today, the Old Fashioned remains a popular cocktail and is often seen as a symbol of classic cocktail culture. Its simple recipe and timeless flavour make it a favourite of both bartenders and cocktail enthusiasts.
Bringing out the best - the Noble Rebel way
After labouring over the first editions of Noble Rebel and creating three punchy blends to be proud of, we wanted drinkers to be able to appreciate the whisky for what it was, without a lot of mixing. When the maverick Master Blender, Michael Henry creates three distinct blends - any whisky drinker should want to experience them in their pure state.
However, we also firmly believe that blending whisky itself is a form of art - and the rules of yesterday are meant to be broken. After all, we are in the business of redefining whisky - not preserving it. So with that, we have experimented with the classic Old Fashioned to create a twist on the cocktail to suit each version of Noble Rebel, elevating their unique flavours.
New Fashioned - your way
Why not name it the New Fashioned? Nutty, citrusy or sweet – the choice is yours.
Now’s the time to take the Old Fashioned to a vibrant new level. Simply mix, make and enjoy.
Hazelnut Harmony
Hazelnut Harmony is our sweet, nutty blend with light and floral notes shining through. To make this serve, we recommend subverting the classic Old Fashioned with walnut bitters to bring the nutty flavours of this blend to the forefront. Discover the recipehere.
Orchard Outburst
Looking for a zesty and bright take on the classic whisky cocktail? Make yours with Orchard Outburst and mix things up with a dash of orange bitters which will invite the zesty notes to the party. Find the full servehere.
Smoke Symphony
And for a warming, spiced version, add Smoke Symphony with a dash of cranberry bitters which will lift the jammy, fruity notes to the tip of your palette. This version is perfect for a warming winter drink, with a hit of peat and chilli warming things up. Find this serving suggestion along with our other recipeshere.
