WhistlePig Whiskey’s Dry Orange Fashioned Belongs On Your Bar Year-Round—Here’s Why

It’s finally happened, folks! I’m taking part in my first ever Dry January. Funny enough, I started a week late because I was on a press trip with WhistlePig Whiskey and Sunkist for the release of their Wet and Dry Orange Fashioned. On the trip, we sampled both offerings, but I was most curious about the Dry Orange Fashioned since I’ve never had a zero proof Old Fashioned before.

Given that the Dry Orange Fashioned is made with 100% Rye Non-Whiskey, Barrel-Aged Maple Syrup, and barrel-aged Sunkist Navel oranges, you get a lot of the same elements of a standard Old Fashioned taste wise. There’s smoke, there’s wood, and a subtle sweetness courtesy of the citrus.

What I did enjoy most about the Dry Orange Fashioned is that it’s slightly refreshing and not as heavy as a classic Old Fashioned. Because once the temps start rising, my Old Fashioned orders get put on hiatus. I mean, have you ever sipped on an Old Fashioned while sitting at a rooftop bar when it’s pushing 90 degrees? Exactly…Just hand me an ice cold margarita.

If you’re considering adding the Dry Orange Fashioned to your bar, here are a few reasons why I think it’s a great addition even outside of Dry January.

1. It has all the elements of your favorite cocktail.

Now that I’m taking part in Dry January, I’ve noticed that occasionally I’ll want the taste of a cocktail and not necessarily the alcohol content. I also find that cocktails can be pretty celebratory—there’s a vibe that goes along with a great cocktail. It’s the look, the smell, the flavors. I love that WhistlePig’s Dry Orange Fashioned gives you all of that minus the booze and the guilt. I also think it’s a great option when you’re entertaining and have guests who don’t drink alcohol. At last, they no longer have to opt for water or that flat Sprite you found in the back of your fridge.

2. It’s a versatile addition to cocktails, mocktails, and beyond.

The Dry Orange Fashioned should absolutely be enjoyed as just that: an Old Fashioned. Buttt, upon taking my first few sips of the drink, I have to admit that my mind was already thinking about all the ways the Dry Orange Fashioned can be used in mocktails, cocktails, and everything in between. In fact, I’m immediately intrigued by the idea of adding a splash of seltzer to it for a bubbly mocktail.

3. It provides a welcome dose of Vitamin C.

When it comes to your typical Old Fashioned, you’d be hard-pressed to find any health benefits. Given that the Dry Orange Fashioned is made using oranges from Sunkist, each serving gets you 10% of your daily value of Vitamin C. I can’t think of a tastier way to get your daily dose of vitamins.

4. Your purchase helps support the bartending community.

For those celebrating Dry January, or even those cutting back on trips to your favorite bar this month, your purchase of either Orange Fashioned helps benefit bartenders. That’s right, 100% of proceeds from the sale of the Dry and Wet Orange Fashioneds will go to bartenders nationwide.