Step into a simpler time with this guide for crafting a timeless cocktail that delivers a delicious sense of quiet luxury.
Modern mixology can feel overwhelming sometimes. Between all the obscure industry jargon, expensive tools, and labyrinthine processes, the idea of a craft cocktail can seem just too complicated—especially if all you want is a drink that tastes good and helps you unwind.
Enter this beginner-friendly guide for how to make a perfect old-fashioned. It’ll help you get a handle on crafting a simply delicious cocktail at home, minus the convoluted phrasing, fancy accessories, or hard-to-master techniques.
The old-fashioned is widely regarded as one of the earliest true cocktails. The simple ingredients that form its foundation match the very first definition of the word “cocktail” published in 1806. The now-iconic name came about over the following decades. As cocktail culture evolved to include ever more complicated liqueurs and garnishes, some bar patrons asked bartenders to prepare their drinks “the old-fashioned way”—meaning keep it simple.
So, if you’re exhausted by the performative spectacle that’s crept into the modern world of cocktails, this tutorial delivers welcome solace. Use this recipe to make a simple adult beverage with a well-balanced flavor profile and quiet sense of timeless luxury.
The perfect cherry for your cocktail
This recipe lists “cocktail cherry” as an ingredient. That phrasing means you’ve got choices! Here’s a brief lowdown on some of the most popular cocktail cherry options:
Maraschino Cherry: This term commonly refers to either the artificially bright red, sweet version found in ice cream sundaes, or the much higher-quality Luxardo cherries popular for lending depth to craft cocktails.
Amarena Cherry: Small, tart Italian cherries preserved in syrup, often chosen to add richness and tartness to high-end cocktails.
Brandied Cherry: Soaked in brandy and sometimes spiced, these cherries bring warmth, rich flavor, and deeper color to drinks.
Homemade Cocktail Cherries: Make your own by preserving any firm cherry, like bing or Balaton, in sugar, spirits, and spices to create a custom garnish.
Other Cherry Choices: More creative garnish ideas include fresh pitted cherries, distinctly sour morello cherries, and even bourbon-soaked cherries.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover old-fashioneds without ice or garnish in a well-sealed glass bottle or jar in the fridge for up to 2 weeks. For easy make-ahead prep, mix the scaled-up sugar, bitters, water, and bourbon in a lidded glass container, seal it, and chill in the fridge until you’re ready to serve. Then just pour the mixture over fresh ice, garnish, and serve. You can also freeze these cocktails for up to 2 months. The high alcohol content prevents them from freezing solid, so they’ll stay chilled without becoming slushy. Keep them well-sealed to prevent oxidation. When ready to serve, simply pour directly from the freezer—no need to thaw.
Serving suggestions
Serve an old-fashioned alongside savory and hearty dishes with a touch of smokiness to complement the spicy and citrus notes in the drink. For an appetizer, Bacon-Wrapped Dates offer a savory-sweet counterpoint to the cocktail’s flavor profile. For a full meal, consider Grilled London Broil and Greek Roasted Vegetables to create balanced richness that echoes the warmth and spice of an old-fashioned.
Ingredients
- 1 sugar cube or 1/2 teaspoon loose sugar
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 splash of water
- 2 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 orange peel optional, for garnish
- 1 cocktail cherry optional, for garnish
Instructions
- In an old-fashioned glass, place the sugar cube (or loose sugar), bitters, and a splash of water. Muddle gently until the sugar is mostly dissolved.
- Add the bourbon or rye whiskey, then add 1 or 2 large ice cubes. Stir well until the sugar is fully dissolved and the cocktail is chilled but not overly diluted.
- Express the oils from the orange peel over the glass by holding it skin-side down and gently pinching to release the citrus oils onto the drink. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass, then drop it into the drink as garnish.
- Add a cocktail cherry for garnish, if desired, and serve immediately.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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