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–+ servings

The Definitive Classic Old Fashioned

The scientifically perfected version of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. This Neo-Classic recipe utilizes rich demerara syrup for a velvety texture and a precise stirring technique to achieve optimal dilution and chill without compromising the spirit's integrity. It is the gold standard for bourbon and rye lovers.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Course Beverage, Cocktails, Drinks
Cuisine American
Servings 1 cocktail
Calories 165 kcal

Equipment

  • Double Old Fashioned Glass (Heavy Bottom)
  • Bar spoon
  • Jigger
  • Y-Peeler (for garnish)
  • Large Ice Cube Mold

Ingredients
  

  • 2 oz 60ml Bourbon Whiskey (High-Rye preferred, e.g., Buffalo Trace or Woodford Reserve; or use Rittenhouse Rye for a spicier drink)
  • 0.25 oz 7.5ml Rich Demerara Syrup (2:1 ratio of sugar to water) OR Gomme Syrup
  • 2 dashes Angostura Aromatic Bitters
  • 1 dash Orange Bitters optional, e.g., Regan's No. 6
  • 1 strip Orange Peel wide strip, pith removed
  • 1 large Ice Cube clear ice preferred

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Glass: Place a large, clear ice cube into a chilled Double Old Fashioned (Rocks) glass. (Using a large cube reduces the surface area for melting, keeping the drink cold without rapid dilution).
  • Build the Base: Pour the rich demerara syrup, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters directly onto the ice.
  • Add the Spirit: Pour the 2 oz of Whiskey over the ice and bitters mixture.
  • The Stir: Using a bar spoon, stir the cocktail gently but consistently for 30 seconds. The goal is to chill the drink to approximately -5°C and introduce just enough dilution to "open up" the whiskey's flavors.
  • Check Dilution: Taste a small drop. The harsh alcohol burn should be softened, but the texture should remain thick and silky. If it's still too "hot," stir for another 10 seconds.
  • Express the Garnish: Take the strip of orange peel. Hold it skin-side down (orange side facing the drink) about 2 inches above the glass. Squeeze it firmly to express the citrus oils onto the surface of the drink. You should see a fine mist land on the liquid.
  • Finish: Rub the peel around the rim of the glass to deposit more oil, then tuck the peel down the side of the ice cube.
  • Serve: Enjoy immediately. Do not add soda water.

Notes

  • Syrup vs. Cubes: While muddling a sugar cube is traditional, we recommend Rich Demerara Syrup (2:1) for superior consistency. Sugar cubes often leave a gritty residue and result in an unevenly sweetened drink.
  • The Whiskey Choice: A "High-Rye" Bourbon provides the best balance of corn sweetness and rye spice. For a drier, bolder drink, use a Bottled-in-Bond Rye Whiskey.
  • Glassware: Use a heavy-bottomed rocks glass. The thermal mass helps keep the drink cold.
  • The Cherry: A cherry is optional. If used, it must be a high-quality preserved cherry (like Luxardo or Amarena), never a bright red "sundae" cherry. Do not muddle it.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cocktailCalories: 165kcal
Keyword best old fashioned, bourbon old fashioned, classic cocktail ideas, Easy old fashioned recipe
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