The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail celebrated for its simplicity and depth of flavor. Made with whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, it’s a cocktail that has stood the test of time. Here’s a traditional recipe to help you create the perfect Old Fashioned at home.
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces (approximately 60 ml) whiskey (bourbon or rye)
- 1 sugar cube or 1/2 ounce (approximately 15 ml) simple syrup
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange or lemon twist, for garnish
- Ice cubes
Steps:
1. Prepare the Glass:
Place a sugar cube (or add simple syrup) into an Old Fashioned glass. If using a sugar cube, add a splash of water to help dissolve the sugar.
2. Add Bitters:
Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube. The bitters provide depth and complexity to the cocktail.
3. Muddle:
Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently muddle the sugar cube with the bitters until it’s partially dissolved and forms a paste.
4. Add Whiskey:
Pour 2 ounces of whiskey (bourbon or rye) into the glass with the muddled sugar and bitters.
5. Stir:
Add ice cubes to the glass, then gently stir the mixture for about 30 seconds to chill the drink and further dilute the sugar.
6. Garnish:
Express the oils from an orange or lemon twist over the glass by squeezing it over the drink, then rimming the edge of the glass with the twist before dropping it into the drink. This releases aromatic oils and adds a hint of citrus to the cocktail.
7. Serve:
Serve your Old Fashioned immediately, allowing its robust flavors to unfold with every sip.
Feel free to experiment with variations of the classic Old Fashioned recipe by using different types of whiskey or adding a cherry garnish. Whether enjoyed as a sophisticated nightcap or a refined cocktail hour choice, the Old Fashioned is a true classic that never goes out of style. Cheers and enjoy responsibly!