The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that embodies simplicity and sophistication. With just a few quality ingredients, you can craft a drink that's both smooth and robust, making it a favourite among whisky enthusiasts. Whether you're winding down after a long day or entertaining guests, this classic cocktail never goes out of style.
Best of all, it's super easy. Here's what you'll need and how to make one:
Ingredients (Serves 1)
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60 ml (2 oz) Whisky - we suggest Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
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1 Sugar Cube (or 1 teaspoon of simple syrup)
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2-3 Dashes of Angostura Bitters
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Orange Peel or Slice to garnish
Equipment
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Super expensive Whisky Glass (or literally any kind of cup, this doesn't matter)
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Muddler, spoon, or a strong clean finger
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Ice
Instructions
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Prepare the Glass: Place the sugar in the glass. Saturate it with a few dashes of bitters and muddle (smash) until the sugar is dissolved. You can add a small bit of water here if needed.
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Add Whiskey: Pour in the bourbon or whiskey. Stir gently to combine all the red muddle sugar.
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Add Ice: Add one large ice cube, if you have those. Or just fill the glass with normal ice cubes. Stir lots (count to 30) to chill the drink and achieve the desired dilution.
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Garnish: Twist the orange peel over the drink to release its oils, rub it around the rim, then drop it into the glass.
Tips & Variations
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Sweetener Options: While a sugar cube is traditional, you can use simple syrup or even maple syrup for a different flavour profile.
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Bitters Variety: Experiment with different amounts of bitters, or other styles like orange bitters to add unique notes to your cocktail.
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Whisky Choice: Bourbon offers a sweeter, smoother taste, while rye provides a spicier kick. Peated whiskey can add a lovely smoky depth. Test them all out and find your preference.