A classic Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that is made with a few simple ingredients. The key components of this drink are bourbon, whiskey or rye, rich simple syrup, Angostura bitters, and a garnish of orange peel and/or maraschino cherry.
To start, you'll need a mixing glass. This is where all the magic happens. Take two ounces of your preferred spirit – whether it's bourbon, whiskey, or rye – and pour it into the mixing glass. The choice of spirit is entirely up to your personal preference, as each one will bring its own unique flavors to the cocktail.
Next, you'll want to add the rich simple syrup. This is a combination of sugar and water that has been heated and dissolved together to create a sweet and syrupy consistency. The richness of this syrup adds depth and complexity to the drink. Typically, you'll want to add about a quarter to half an ounce of the rich simple syrup, depending on how sweet you like your Old Fashioned.
Now it's time to add the Angostura bitters. These bitters are a classic ingredient in many cocktails and add a wonderful depth of flavor. I would recommend adding a few dashes of the bitters to your mixing glass. The amount can vary depending on your taste preferences, so feel free to adjust accordingly.
Once all the ingredients are in the mixing glass, it's time to stir. Stirring is preferred over shaking for an Old Fashioned, as it allows the flavors to meld together without adding too much air or dilution to the drink. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly, ensuring that all the ingredients are well incorporated.
Now it's time to strain the mixture into a rocks glass. The rocks glass is the ideal vessel for an Old Fashioned, as it allows you to appreciate the aromas and flavors of the drink. To enhance the experience, I recommend adding one large ice cube to the glass. This not only chills the drink but also helps to slowly dilute it, opening up the flavors as you sip.
It's time to garnish your Old Fashioned. Traditionally, an orange peel is used as a garnish. You can express the oils from the peel by gently squeezing it over the glass, allowing the aromas to infuse into the drink. This adds a bright citrus note that complements the rich flavors of the cocktail. Additionally, you can add a maraschino cherry as a garnish, if desired, for a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
Now, sit back, relax, and enjoy your classic Old Fashioned. Sip slowly, allowing the flavors to develop and evolve with each sip. The balance of the spirit, sweetness, and bitters in this cocktail is truly a work of art, and it's no wonder that the Old Fashioned has stood the test of time as a beloved classic cocktail. Cheers!