The Perfect Old Fashioned: A Classic Winter Cocktail
- briancsetaro
- Oct 8, 2024
- 3 min read
As the colder winter months approach, my wife and I find comfort in a classic cocktail that has become our favorite: the Old Fashioned. This timeless drink, with its rich, warming flavors, is the perfect companion for cozy evenings.
We've experimented with various recipes, and we've found that using Four Roses bourbon provides the ideal balance of quality and affordability. The sweetness added to the cocktail harmonizes beautifully with the bourbon's smooth notes, creating a delightful drink that never disappoints.
Here's our go-to recipe for crafting the perfect Old Fashioned.
Ingredients:
2 oz Four Roses bourbon
1 sugar cube or 1/2 teaspoon granulated sugar
2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
Orange peel
Cherry (optional, for garnish)
Ice
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Glass: Start by placing the sugar cube or granulated sugar in an Old Fashioned glass. Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of water. Muddle the sugar and bitters together until the sugar is dissolved. This mixture forms the sweet, aromatic base of the cocktail.
2. Add the Bourbon: Pour the Four Roses bourbon into the glass over the sugar mixture. Stir gently to combine and allow the flavors to meld. Four Roses is our preferred bourbon for this cocktail because of its smooth, balanced profile. It offers a well-rounded flavor without being overpowering, making it a perfect match for the Old Fashioned's simple yet sophisticated taste.
3. Add Ice: Fill the glass with a large ice cube or several smaller ones. The ice chills the drink and slightly dilutes it, mellowing the bourbon's intensity while maintaining its character.
4. Garnish: Express the oils from a fresh orange peel over the glass by holding the peel over the drink and gently twisting it. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass, then drop it in. For an extra touch, garnish with a cherry, though we often prefer the simplicity of just the orange peel.
5. Enjoy: Sip slowly and savor the rich, warming flavors of the Old Fashioned. The combination of bourbon, sugar, bitters, and citrus creates a harmonious blend that's perfect for a cold winter evening.
The Comfort of a Classic
The Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it's a ritual that brings warmth and comfort during the colder months. My wife and I enjoy preparing and sharing this drink, as it symbolizes relaxation and togetherness. The process of making an Old Fashioned is as enjoyable as drinking it, from muddling the sugar to garnishing with a twist of orange. Each step is a part of the experience, enhancing the anticipation and appreciation of the final product.
We've tried various bourbons over the years, but Four Roses remains our favorite for its excellent value and smooth taste. Its subtle sweetness and balanced spice notes blend seamlessly with the sugar and bitters, creating a drink that's both rich and refined. The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that can be easily adjusted to suit personal preferences, but we find that this simple yet classic recipe delivers the perfect balance every time.
Whether enjoyed by the fire on a snowy evening or shared with friends and family during a holiday gathering, the Old Fashioned is a drink that never goes out of style. It's a reminder of the beauty in simplicity and the joy of savoring life's small pleasures. As winter sets in, we look forward to many more cozy nights with our favorite drink in hand, toasting to the season and the memories we create. Cheers!