Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that epitomizes the very definition of what a cocktail is: a mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. It's a simple, yet elegant drink that has stood the test of time. Here's how to make a traditional Old Fashioned:
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1 Sugar Cube (or 1/2 tsp granulated sugar)
- 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 splash Water or Club Soda
- Ice Cubes
- Orange Twist and Maraschino Cherry (for garnish)
Instructions
- Muddle Sugar and Bitters: Place the sugar cube in an old-fashioned glass and saturate it with the bitters. Add a splash of water or club soda. Muddle these ingredients together until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Add Whiskey: Pour in the bourbon or rye whiskey.
- Stir: Add a few ice cubes and stir the drink gently. The purpose is to chill the drink and dilute it slightly, but not too much.
- Garnish: Garnish with an orange twist and a maraschino cherry. To express the orange twist, twist it over the drink to release the oils, then rub it around the rim of the glass and drop it in.
- Serve: Serve the drink with a stirring rod or cocktail spoon.
Notes
- Whiskey Choice: The choice between bourbon and rye whiskey is up to personal preference. Bourbon will give a sweeter taste, while rye offers a spicier profile.
- Sugar: Some variations use simple syrup instead of a sugar cube for easier mixing.
- Bitters: While Angostura bitters are traditional, other types of aromatic bitters can also be used for different flavor profiles.