Classic Old-Fashioned Recipe

Bourbon: A type of American whiskey known for its rich, caramel-like flavor.

Rye whiskey: An alternative to bourbon, offering a spicier and more robust taste.

Sugar cube: Provides the sweetness needed to balance the bitterness and alcohol.

Angostura bitters: Adds complexity and depth with its aromatic blend of herbs and spices.

Orange peel: Used for garnish, it adds a citrusy aroma and a touch of elegance.

Lemon peel: Another garnish option that complements the orange peel with its bright, zesty notes.

When muddling the sugar cube with bitters, ensure you use a gentle but firm pressure to fully dissolve the sugar. This helps to evenly distribute the bitters throughout the drink, enhancing the overall flavor profile. Additionally, when garnishing with orange peel and lemon peel, twist the peels over the glass to release their essential oils, adding a fragrant citrus note to your Old-Fashioned.

• bourbon or rye whiskey - Substitute with non-alcoholic whiskey alternative: This provides a similar flavor profile without the alcohol content, making it suitable for a vegan and non-alcoholic version.

• sugar cube - Substitute with maple syrup: Maple syrup is a vegan-friendly sweetener that dissolves easily and adds a rich, complex sweetness.

• angostura bitters - Substitute with non-alcoholic bitters: Non-alcoholic bitters provide the same aromatic and flavor complexity without the alcohol, ensuring the drink remains vegan and non-alcoholic.

• orange peel - Substitute with orange zest: Orange zest offers the same citrusy aroma and flavor, and can be easily obtained from fresh oranges.

• lemon peel - Substitute with lemon zest: Lemon zest provides the same bright, citrusy notes and can be freshly grated from a lemon.

• When storing your classic old-fashioned, always use an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent any unwanted flavors from seeping in. A mason jar works wonders for this purpose.
• If you plan to enjoy your cocktail within a day or two, keep it in the refrigerator. This will ensure that the whiskey remains chilled and the flavors stay well-balanced.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the cocktail. Pour the mixed drink into an ice cube tray and freeze. When you're ready to enjoy, simply pop a few cubes into a glass and let them melt slightly before sipping.
• To preserve the vibrant flavors of the orange peel and lemon peel garnishes, store them separately in a small airtight container in the refrigerator. This will keep them fresh and aromatic.
• If you prefer a ready-to-drink option, mix the whiskey and bitters with the dissolved sugar cube and store in a sealed bottle. When you're ready to serve, pour over ice and add the fresh garnishes.
• Always label your stored cocktail with the date it was made to ensure you consume it while it's at its best.

• Pour the whiskey mixture into a small saucepan.
• Heat over low heat, stirring gently, until just warmed through. Be careful not to let it boil, as this will evaporate the alcohol.
• Alternatively, you can use a microwave-safe glass. Heat in the microwave on low power for 10-15 seconds, checking frequently to avoid overheating.
• Once warmed, pour the mixture back into an old-fashioned glass over a fresh large ice cube.
• Garnish with fresh orange peel and lemon peel to restore the aromatic elements.

• Mixing glass: A vessel used to combine and chill the ingredients before serving.

• Muddler: A tool used to crush the sugar cube and mix it with the bitters.

• Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir the drink thoroughly.

• Jigger: A measuring tool to ensure the correct amount of whiskey is used.

• Strainer: Used to strain the mixed drink into the serving glass, keeping ice and other solids out.

• Old-fashioned glass: The serving glass for the cocktail, also known as a rocks glass.

• Peeler: A tool to create strips of orange and lemon peel for garnish.

• Ice cube tray: Used to make large ice cubes that will chill the drink without diluting it too quickly.

Pre-muddle the sugar: Muddle the sugar cube with bitters in advance and store it in a small container. This way, you can skip this step when making the drink.

Use simple syrup: Replace the sugar cube with simple syrup to save time on muddling. Just add a small amount directly to the mixing glass.

Pre-chill the glass: Keep your old-fashioned glass in the freezer so it's ready to go. This will save time and keep your drink colder longer.

Batch the drink: Make a larger batch of the whiskey and bitters mixture ahead of time. Store it in a bottle and pour as needed.