During my quick day trip between Los Angeles and Salt Lake City last week, I tried one of Delta Air Lines’ new adult beverage offerings: a pre-mixed Old Fashioned served in a can.
The drink is manufactured by Tip Top Proper Cocktails, a beverage company based in Atlanta (which is, of course, Delta’s home city).
I love bourbon; Booker’s, Woodford Reserve, Elijah Craig, Buffalo Trace, and — for real — the Kirkland bourbon available at some Costcos are among my favorites.
Old Fashioneds can be very tasty cocktails. I enjoy making them at home and was eager to see what Delta’s Old Fashioneds are like!
New Confusion for an Old Fashioned
The flight attendant serving first class on this LAX to Salt Lake City hop was undyingly sweet and endearing. (I overheard her saying something about it being one of her first days back on the job.) But when she took my drink order, it went something like this:
FA: Good afternoon! Can I get you something to drink?
ME: May I please get an Old Fashioned?
FA: Um, sure. (pause) But an old-fashioned what, exactly?
ME: The drink.
FA: Okay, but what kind of old-fashioned drink would you like? Like an old-fashioned soda or —?
ME: The one with bourbon, bitters, and sugar.
FA: Huh. I’ve never heard of that. But it sounds really tasty!
ME: Delta started serving them about a week ago. They’re in cans.
Her eyes lit up and she pointed to me, suddenly realizing what I meant.
FA: Yes! Now I know what you’re talking about! Sorry about that! I’ll be right back!
She quickly returned with a plastic cup filled with ice — and my drink.
Delta’s Old Fashioned in a Can
The drink can be enjoyed straight out of the can or on the rocks. I opted for the latter.
The Delta Old Fashioned is pretty darned good. It’s not the best Old Fashioned I ever enjoyed. But I’ve definitely tasted worse.
I thought it rather fun to have an Old Fashioned during a flight, too.
There was a strong burst of orange bitters (which I love and use in my homemade Old Fashioneds). I’m not sure which bourbon Tip Top uses — but it was fairly earthy (if you like Woodford, you’ll probably enjoy this during a Delta flight).
I generally prefer my cocktails to feature slightly heavy pours when it comes to the featured liquor(s). I wish this Old Fashioned were a little stronger, bourbon-wise. Like, a splash more. But that’s a personal preference and I understand not everyone enjoys drinks with such a punch.
I tried a couple of “Kentucky Chews” while drinking the Tip Top Old Fashioned. The flavors mixed nicely (which is the point). But I wasn’t surprised when there was a slightly syrupy aftertaste. It wasn’t bad, per se, and a sip of water cleansed the palate just fine.
Overall, I’m impressed — and would definitely drink it again. But when full beverage service returns (we don’t know exactly when that’ll be), I’ll probably stick to my Woodford Reserve on the rocks.
Until then, though, Delta’s Old Fashioned from Tip Top is a fine alternative.
Quick aside: I absolutely love the irony that anything involving booze (or other vices) is manufactured somewhere called “Temperance”!
Have you tried the canned Old Fashioned? What are your impressions?
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I had it for the first time this past week from IAH-ATL. I agree that it’s maybe a tad too sweet for my taste but very drinkable.
Rene…. on da scene. Thank you Rene for this brilliant post. Fascinating!!!!
@Sam – Chris actually. I have still not been on an airplane since Feb of 2020. Will be flying Delta this month however (and AA as well)!
I’d the old fashion in the can when it first came out on April 14th. Same observations as you on the taste and I was surprised it tasted similar to a freshly made one. My best old fashion was at the Grand Hyatt (Cat Cora restaurant). Haven’t made the drink at home as I believe certain things are best experienced while travelling.
Tried it last week as no margaritas available ! I thought it was too alcohol forward 74 proof!! Do asked for baby can of club soda to try to dilute it but still tasted a little too strong for me! I guess being a wine drinker and not hard liquor lover did not help my perception !
Is first class service back like it was pre-pandemic? What about Comfort+ and Main? Thanks.
Nope. Per Delta:
Flights 251-499 Miles
All passengers on flights over 251+ miles will be able to enjoy our snack selection (sweet/savory).
Coffee, tea, and 8oz bottled water will be available in all cabins.
Delta Comfort+ and First Class customers will receive complimentary beer and wine service.
Other beverages, including Coca-Cola mini cans, juices, and mixers will be available for First Class customers.
Flights 500+ Miles
Delta Comfort+ and First Class customers will receive complimentary beer and wine service.
Customers in Main Cabin may purchase alcohol by using tap-to-pay.
Coffee, tea, Coca-Cola mini cans and juice will be available in all cabins.
*First Class snack boxes available on flights with 900+ miles
I enjoyed these (yes multiples) on a JFK LAS flight recently. I found it better than some bartenders versions. Applause to Delta for bringing this fun kitschy item on board. My flying buddy thought it was too strong, I thought it was just right. I highly recommend you pour it over ice. It was formulated as such. The margaritas (on my return flight) were equally tasty. Bonus, it’s a can. Easier and more likely to be recycled.