Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail

Classic Old Fashioned Cocktail

Savor the timeless elegance of a perfectly balanced Old Fashioned. This iconic cocktail is a testament to simplicity and quality ingredients, featuring rich bourbon or rye whiskey, a touch of sugar to sweeten, a few dashes of aromatic bitters to add complexity, and a bright citrus peel garnish for a fragrant finish. It’s designed to be sipped slowly, allowing the nuanced flavors of the spirit to shine through. This recipe is straightforward, ensuring anyone can craft a sophisticated drink that is smooth, strong, and deeply satisfying. It’s the ultimate choice for a quiet evening drink or to impress guests with a genuine piece of cocktail history.

Preparation time
5 min
Cooking time
Under a minute
Total time
5 min
Servings
1

Instructions

Preparation

  1. 1Place the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) into a rocks glass.
  2. 2Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters to the sugar.
  3. 3Add a very small splash of water (about a teaspoon) to the sugar and bitters.
  4. 4Muddle the sugar and bitters together until the sugar is dissolved, creating a paste or syrup.
  5. 5Add a large ice cube or ice sphere to the glass.
  6. 6Pour 2 fl oz of bourbon or rye whiskey over the ice.
  7. 7Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and slightly dilute the drink.
  8. 8Express the oils from an orange peel by twisting it over the drink, then drop it into the glass for garnish.

Nutrition Information

Calories
150 kcal
Protein
0 g
Fat
0 g
Carbs
15 g
NutrientPer serving
Calories150 kcal
Protein0 g
Fat0 g
Carbs15 g

Tips

  • Always use a large, single ice cube or sphere. It melts slower, chilling your drink without over-diluting the rich flavors.
  • Sip your Old Fashioned slowly to truly appreciate the complex interplay of whiskey, sugar, and bitters. It's a contemplative drink.
  • Experiment with different high-quality bourbons or rye whiskeys to find your preferred flavor profile for this classic cocktail.

By Chef Michael Ilin