To make a classic Old Fashioned cocktail, follow these steps:
Ingredients
- 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey (choose a good quality, mid-range bourbon like Four Roses, Bulleit, or Woodford Reserve)
- 1 sugar cube or 1 teaspoon simple syrup (demerara sugar is preferred for its molasses notes)
- 2 to 3 dashes Angostura bitters
- A splash of water (about a teaspoon) to help dissolve the sugar
- Ice (preferably one large cube)
- Garnishes: orange peel and a maraschino cherry (optional)
Instructions
- Muddle sugar, bitters, and water: In an Old Fashioned glass, place the sugar cube (or add simple syrup), add the bitters and splash of water, then muddle or stir until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Add bourbon: Pour 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey into the glass.
- Add ice: Add one large ice cube to the glass to chill the drink without diluting it too quickly.
- Stir: Stir gently to combine and chill the cocktail.
- Garnish: Express the oils of an orange peel over the glass by holding it near a flame (optional) and rub the peel around the rim, then drop it into the glass along with a maraschino cherry if desired.
This simple cocktail highlights the flavors of the whiskey with a balanced sweetness and aromatic bitters, making it a timeless classic
Tips
- Use brown sugar simple syrup for a richer caramel flavor.
- Experiment with different bitters or even aged rum for variations.
- Use a large ice cube to slow dilution and keep the drink flavorful longer
