An old-fashioned recipe often evokes a sense of tradition and timeless taste. Here’s a classic recipe for an Old Fashioned cocktail, a staple in the world of mixology that has stood the test of time due to its simplicity and elegance.
Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye whiskey
- 1 Sugar cube (or 1/2 teaspoon of sugar)
- Few dashes of Angostura bitters
- Orange peel
- Maraschino cherry (optional)
- Ice cubes
Instructions:
- Prepare the Glass: Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass. Add a few dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of water.
- Muddle: Use a muddler to crush the sugar and bitters together until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Stir in the Whiskey: Add the bourbon or rye whiskey to the glass. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Add Ice: Fill the glass with a couple of large ice cubes. This chills the drink while maintaining a slow dilution.
- Garnish: Twist a piece of orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then rub the peel around the rim of the glass and drop it in. Optionally, you can add a maraschino cherry for a touch of sweetness and color.
- Serve: Your Old Fashioned is ready to enjoy. The cocktail is best sipped slowly, allowing the flavors to evolve as the ice melts slightly.
This recipe is a template, and many bartenders and enthusiasts like to put their own twist on it, experimenting with different types of whiskey, bitters, and garnishes. The key to a great Old Fashioned is balance, ensuring that the sweetness, bitters, and alcohol harmonize perfectly.
