To make an Old Fashioned with Woodford Reserve, you'll need a few key ingredients and some simple steps to create a truly exceptional cocktail. Here's a detailed guide on how to make the perfect Old Fashioned:
Ingredients:
– 2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon
– 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 tsp granulated sugar)
– 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
– Orange peel, for garnish
– Ice cubes
Instructions:
1. Start by placing the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) in an Old Fashioned glass. If using a sugar cube, you can soak it in bitters to help it dissolve more easily.
2. Add the Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube. The bitters not only provide a unique flavor profile but also help to mellow the sweetness of the sugar.
3. Muddle the sugar and bitters together until they form a paste-like consistency. This step is crucial as it helps to distribute the flavors evenly and dissolve the sugar.
4. Fill the glass with ice cubes. It's important to use large ice cubes to prevent the cocktail from becoming diluted too quickly, as they melt more slowly.
5. Pour in the Woodford Reserve Bourbon over the ice. The rich and robust flavor of Woodford Reserve adds depth and complexity to the cocktail, making it a perfect choice for an Old Fashioned.
6. Stir the cocktail gently for about 20-30 seconds. This allows the flavors to blend together while also chilling the drink.
7. Take an orange peel and express the oils over the glass. Rub the orange peel around the rim of the glass to release even more aromatic oils. Then, place the orange peel in the glass as a garnish.
8. Give the cocktail one final stir, and it's ready to be enjoyed!
Tips and variations:
– If you prefer a sweeter Old Fashioned, you can add a teaspoon of simple syrup or adjust the amount of sugar to your taste.
– For a smokier twist, you can substitute some or all of the Woodford Reserve Bourbon with Woodford Reserve Double Oaked. The double oak aging process adds extra depth and complexity to the cocktail.
– Experiment with different types of bitters to personalize your Old Fashioned. Aromatic or orange bitters can provide unique flavor profiles that complement the Woodford Reserve Bourbon beautifully.
– Consider using a large ice cube or sphere to further slow down the dilution of the cocktail. This helps to maintain the flavors and aromas for a longer duration.
– Don't rush the stirring process. Taking the time to gently stir the cocktail allows the flavors to meld together and creates a smoother drinking experience.
Personal experience:
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of crafting and enjoying many Old Fashioned cocktails with Woodford Reserve Bourbon. The rich and distinct flavors of Woodford Reserve truly elevate the classic recipe to new heights. The smoothness of the bourbon, combined with the aromatic bitters and citrus oils, creates a perfectly balanced cocktail that is both refreshing and satisfying.
I remember one particular evening at a whiskey tasting event where I had the opportunity to showcase the Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned. The guests were intrigued by the process and eager to taste the final result. The combination of the expertly crafted bourbon, the muddled sugar and bitters, and the orange garnish created a sensory experience that left a lasting impression on everyone in attendance. The depth of flavor and the smoothness of the Woodford Reserve truly made it a standout cocktail of the evening.
Whether enjoyed at a tasting event, a cozy bar, or in the comfort of your own home, the Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned is a timeless classic that never fails to impress. So, gather your ingredients, take your time with the preparation, and savor the experience of creating and sipping on a perfectly crafted Woodford Reserve Old Fashioned.