A muddler is indeed used when making an old fashioned cocktail. It is an essential tool for properly combining the ingredients and extracting the flavors.
To begin, you will need a lowball glass or an old fashioned glass, also known as a rocks glass. If you prefer using a classic sugar cube, place it in the glass. Alternatively, you can use simple syrup, which is a mixture of equal parts water and sugar.
Next, you'll want to add a few dashes of bitters. Angostura bitters are commonly used in an old fashioned, but you can also experiment with different flavors like orange or cherry bitters to add a unique twist.
Now, it's time to muddle the sugar or sugar cube with the bitters. Using a muddler, which is a long, tapered tool typically made of wood or stainless steel, gently press and twist the sugar and bitters together. The goal is to dissolve the sugar and release its flavors, as well as combine it with the bitters.
As you muddle, you may want to add a splash of water to help dissolve the sugar more quickly. This is especially useful when using a sugar cube. The water will also help to dilute the cocktail slightly, balancing the flavors as you continue to build the drink.
Once the sugar is nearly dissolved, it's time to add the main ingredient: whiskey. Traditionally, rye whiskey is used in an old fashioned, but bourbon can also be used. The choice of whiskey largely depends on personal preference and the flavor profile you desire.
Pour a generous amount of whiskey into the glass, typically around 2 ounces. The exact amount can be adjusted based on your taste preferences.
After adding the whiskey, give the mixture a gentle stir to ensure everything is well combined. You can use a bar spoon or the end of a long spoon for this step. Stirring the cocktail helps to further integrate the flavors and ensures the sugar is fully dissolved.
To complete the old fashioned, you can add a large ice cube or a few smaller ice cubes to the glass. The ice will chill the cocktail and provide some dilution as it melts, mellowing the flavors and making it more enjoyable to sip.
You can garnish your old fashioned with a twist of citrus peel, typically orange or lemon. Express the oils from the peel by gently squeezing it over the glass, then rub the peel along the rim for added aroma. This step adds a touch of brightness and freshness to the cocktail.
And there you have it, a classic old fashioned cocktail made using a muddler to muddle the sugar and bitters together. Enjoy sipping this timeless drink and feel free to experiment with different whiskey varieties, bitters, and garnishes to tailor it to your taste. Cheers!