Free Spirits 101 — Lesson 4
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Split the Base: The Old Fashioned, Rebuilt
This is where tradition meets innovation — with a splash less regret. In this episode, Steve (aka The Brit Behind Bars) walks us through the rise of the split-base cocktail: a smarter way to sip that blends traditional spirits with non-alcoholic alternatives for full flavor and lower ABV.
Not sure what we mean by “non-alcoholic spirit”? Start here.
The result? A Half-Proof Old Fashioned that keeps its edge, dials back the buzz, and makes you look like a mixology genius (even if your citrus peel is crooked).
How to Build a Half-Proof Old Fashioned
- Start with a few dashes of Angostura and orange bitters
- Add ¼ oz of maple syrup for balanced sweetness
- Split the spirit base: 1 oz full-proof bourbon + 1 oz The Spirit of Bourbon
- Stir with ice, strain over a big cube, and finish with a twist of orange
Why Split the Base?
- Flavor stays bold – you're still getting the essence of a classic Old Fashioned
- Alcohol gets cut in half – so you can enjoy the ritual without the wreckage
- More options, more control – tailor the ratio to your taste and your night
💡 Pro Tip: Don’t tell anyone it’s half-proof until after they compliment your bartending skills. Let the flavor speak first.
🍂 Ready to remix your favorite classic? Grab a bottle from the collection and split your way to better cocktails.
