Classic Old-Fashioned Recipe

Bourbon: A type of American whiskey that is made primarily from corn and aged in charred oak barrels.

Rye whiskey: Another type of American whiskey, made primarily from rye grain, offering a spicier flavor compared to bourbon.

Sugar cube: A small, cube-shaped piece of sugar that adds sweetness to the cocktail.

Angostura bitters: A concentrated bitters made from herbs and spices, used to add depth and complexity to the drink.

Orange peel: A strip of orange peel used as a garnish to add a citrus aroma and flavor to the cocktail.

When muddling the sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water, ensure you use a gentle but firm pressure to fully dissolve the sugar. This will create a smooth base for the whiskey and help to evenly distribute the flavors throughout the cocktail.

• bourbon - Substitute with brandy: Brandy offers a similar depth and warmth, making it a good alternative for those who prefer a slightly sweeter and fruitier profile.

• rye whiskey - Substitute with scotch: Scotch provides a smoky and complex flavor, which can add an interesting twist to the classic old-fashioned.

• sugar cube - Substitute with simple syrup: Simple syrup dissolves more easily and evenly, ensuring a consistent sweetness throughout the drink.

• angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters add a citrusy note that complements the whiskey and enhances the overall flavor profile.

• orange peel - Substitute with lemon peel: Lemon peel provides a bright and zesty aroma, offering a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the drink.

• Ensure you have a clean, airtight container to store your classic old-fashioned cocktail. A glass bottle with a tight-sealing cap works best to maintain the integrity of the flavors.
• Pour the prepared cocktail into the container, leaving a little space at the top to allow for expansion if freezing.
• If you plan to store the cocktail in the refrigerator, it can last for up to a week. Make sure to give it a gentle stir before serving to redistribute any settled ingredients.
• For freezing, place the container in the freezer. The classic old-fashioned can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to serve, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
• Always garnish with a fresh orange peel when serving, as freezing can diminish the freshness and aroma of the original garnish.
• If you prefer to store the cocktail without ice, simply add ice cubes to the glass when serving. This ensures the cocktail remains undiluted until the moment of enjoyment.
• Label your container with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness.
• Avoid storing the cocktail in plastic containers, as they can absorb and alter the flavors over time. Glass is always the best option for maintaining the cocktail's quality.

• Pour the bourbon or rye whiskey into a small saucepan.
• Add a splash of water to the saucepan.
• Warm the mixture over low heat, stirring gently, until it reaches your desired temperature. Be careful not to let it boil.
• In a separate glass, place a fresh sugar cube and add 2 dashes of angostura bitters.
• Muddle the sugar cube and bitters together until the sugar is dissolved.
• Fill the glass with fresh ice cubes.
• Pour the warmed whiskey mixture over the ice.
• Stir gently to combine.
• Garnish with a fresh strip of orange peel.

• Old-fashioned glass: A short, sturdy glass traditionally used for serving the old-fashioned cocktail.

• Muddler: A tool used to crush the sugar cube and mix it with the bitters and water.

• Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used for stirring the cocktail gently.

• Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure you pour the correct amount of bourbon or rye whiskey.

• Peeler: A tool to peel a strip of orange peel for garnish.

• Ice cubes: Used to chill the drink and slightly dilute it for a balanced flavor.

Pre-make sugar mix: Dissolve sugar and bitters in water ahead of time and store in a small bottle.

Use large ice cubes: They melt slower, keeping your Old-Fashioned from diluting too quickly.

Batch your cocktails: Mix larger quantities of whiskey, sugar, and bitters in a pitcher for easy serving.

Pre-cut garnishes: Prepare orange peels in advance and store them in an airtight container.

Use a jigger: Measure your whiskey precisely to save time and ensure consistency.