The Old Fashioned is a classic and timeless cocktail known for its simplicity and bold flavors. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft the perfect Old Fashioned:

Ingredients:

– 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon or rye whiskey

– 1 sugar cube or 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar

– 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters

– Orange peel, for garnish

– Ice cubes

Instructions:

  1. Start by placing the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) at the bottom of an Old Fashioned glass. If using a sugar cube, add a few drops of water to help dissolve it.
  2. Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube. The bitters add depth of flavor and balance to the cocktail.
  3. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle the sugar and bitters until they dissolve and form a syrup-like consistency.
  4. Add a large ice cube or a few regular ice cubes to the glass. The large ice cube melts slower and dilutes the cocktail at a slower pace.
  5. Pour in 2 ounces (60 ml) of bourbon or rye whiskey. Choose a high-quality whiskey that suits your taste preferences. Bourbon tends to be sweeter, while rye whiskey has a spicier flavor profile.
  6. Stir the mixture gently for about 20-30 seconds to combine the ingredients and chill the cocktail. Avoid stirring vigorously to prevent excessive dilution.
  7. Take an orange peel and express the oils over the drink by twisting it over the glass. This releases the citrusy aroma of the orange oils.
  8. Rub the orange peel along the rim of the glass to transfer some of the citrus oils. Then, place the orange peel into the glass as a garnish.
  9. Optionally, you can further personalize the Old Fashioned by including a maraschino cherry or a few drops of cherry syrup as an additional garnish.
  10. Sip and savor your perfectly crafted Old Fashioned. Adjust the sweetness or intensity by adding more sugar or bitters according to your taste.

With these simple steps, you can enjoy a classic and timeless Old Fashioned cocktail at home.

By Duke