Introduction to the Best Old Fashioned

Mastering the art of the Old Fashioned cocktail is no small feat, and in my experience, achieving the perfect balance of sweetness, bitters, and the rich, bold flavors of bourbon or rye is truly a rewarding experience. Below, I'll walk you through a detailed guide on how to concoct the best Old Fashioned based on my personal preference.

Ingredients and Preparation

1. Choosing the Right Ingredients

When it comes to creating an Old Fashioned, the quality of the ingredients is paramount. Here are the essentials:

Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: For this recipe, I recommend Knob Creek 100 proof or Wyoming Whiskey Single Barrel if available. These whiskeys, with their distinct deep flavors, will truly elevate your drink. Simple Syrup: A 1:1 mixture of hot water and sugar, stirred until fully dissolved. This ensures a smooth, grain-free syrup. Angostura Bitters: I prefer the classic Angostura Orange Bitters, which adds a layer of complexity to the drink. Muddled Orange Wedge and Cherry: Freshly muddled for a burst of citrus flavor. Use Luxardo Maraschino Cherries, as they are the authentic choice. Sugar: A fresh Luxardo Maraschino cherry can be used as a sugar cube.

2. The Muddling Process

Muddling is the key to infusing the cocktail with the best flavors. Start by muddling one orange wedge with one whole Luxardo Maraschino Cherry.

3. The Perfect Mix

In a mixing glass or tin, combine all the prepared ingredients. Here’s the recipe:

1 oz. Muddled Orange and Cherry: This muddling step adds a fruity, orange scent to the drink. 2 oz. Whiskey: Your choice of bourbon or rye should be added here. 1/8 - 1/4 oz. Simple Syrup: This balances the drink and ensures it’s not too bitter. 1-3 Dashes of Angostura Bitters: Adjust to taste, but I find that 3 dashes work well.

Add a scoop of ice or around 5-6 large ice cubes, and stir to combine and chill everything thoroughly. The amount of water that melts from the ice is crucial, as it helps dilute the drink and enhance its flavor.

4. Straining and Garnishing

Once your drink is well mixed and chilled, strain it into a rocks glass, either over a large ice sphere or a single large ice cube (about 1-2 inches in diameter).

Garnish with a speared Luxardo cherry and an orange wedge. This not only adds aesthetic appeal but also enhances the drinking experience with its citrus notes.

5. Enjoying the Perfect Old Fashioned

Sit back, take a sip, and let the flavors dance on your palate. The initial sip may seem hot and harsh, but as the ice chills the drink, it mellows out and becomes perfect for sipping.

Variations and Tips

1. Single Serving Old Fashioned

If you’re making just one Old Fashioned:

Place a sugar cube (brown or white) or 1/2 tsp of sugar and 1/4 tsp of Angostura Bitters or 2-3 heavy dashes from your bottle in your glass. Add a splash of hot water to dissolve the sugar and bitters. Pour in 2 oz or 1/4 cup of Bourbon or Rye whiskey. Add 4-5 ice cubes and stir briefly to start chilling the drink and add some dilution. Peel a 2"x1" swath of lemon peel, squeeze it to spray the citrus oil on top, and drop the peel in or leave it out.

2. Making a Batch of Simple Syrup

If you plan to make multiple Old Fashioneds, it’s beneficial to prepare a bottle of simple syrup.

For an Old Fashioned, use a double strength syrup, mixing 1 cup of sugar with 1/2 cup of water and heating it until the sugar dissolves. This should last for months in your refrigerator. Substitute the sugar cube for the measured amount of simple syrup (1/2 tsp per drink).

Conclusion

The art of crafting the perfect Old Fashioned lies in the details. With the right ingredients and a touch of artistry, you can make a cocktail that truly stands out. Cheers to perfecting your Old Fashioned game!