Beverages

Old Fashioned

Experience the sophisticated elegance of the quintessential American cocktail that has defined bar culture for over a century. This recipe balances rich bourbon notes with subtle sweetness and aromatic bitters for a smooth, spirit-forward finish that is perfect for any evening.

Prep

Cook

—

Serves

Calories

150kcal

Qty	Ingredient
2 oz 60 ml	Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
1 tsp 5 ml	Sugar Cube (or Simple Syrup)
2 dashes 2 ml	Angostura Bitters
1 tsp 5 ml	Plain Water
1 strip 1 piece	Orange Peel
1 piece 1 piece	Luxardo Maraschino Cherry

2 Method

Step 1. Place the sugar cube or simple syrup in a rocks glass (also known as an Old Fashioned glass).

Step 2. Add two dashes of Angostura bitters and a teaspoon of water directly onto the sugar.

Step 3. Muddle the sugar and bitters until the sugar is nearly dissolved and a paste forms.

Step 4. Add a single large ice cube or several large chunks of clear ice to the glass.

Step 5. Pour the bourbon or rye whiskey over the ice.

Step 6. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds to properly chill and dilute the spirit.

Step 7. Express the oils from the orange peel by twisting it over the glass, rub the rim with the peel, and drop it in.

Step 8. Garnish with a high-quality cocktail cherry and serve immediately.

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Use a single large ice cube to minimize surface area, which prevents the drink from becoming watery too quickly.
·
Choose a high-proof bourbon (at least 90-100 proof) so the whiskey's character isn't lost in the dilution.
·
Always stir, never shake; an Old Fashioned should be crystal clear and velvety, not aerated and cloudy.
·
Rubbing the orange peel on the rim of the glass ensures the citrus aroma hits your nose before the first sip.

? FAQ

Should I use Bourbon or Rye whiskey?

Bourbon provides a sweeter, smoother profile with notes of vanilla, while Rye offers a spicier, drier finish. Both are traditional and depend on your personal preference.

Can I use granulated sugar instead of a sugar cube?

Yes, but it takes longer to dissolve. Simple syrup is often preferred by modern bartenders for its instant integration into the drink.

Why is it called an Old Fashioned?

In the late 1800s, drinkers began asking for cocktails made 'the old-fashioned way'—spirits, bitters, water, and sugar—as a rejection of newer, more complex recipes.

What is the best type of orange for the garnish?

A Navel orange is ideal because it has a thick skin with plenty of aromatic oils, which are essential for the cocktail's fragrance.

The Beast

Old Fashioned

1 Ingredients

2 Method

💡 Chef's Tips

? FAQ

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