Are you ready to elevate your cocktail game? This isn't just any Old Fashioned; we're talking a refined, sophisticated experience using the smooth, rich notes of Woodford Reserve bourbon. This classic cocktail is surprisingly easy to make, requiring only a few simple ingredients and a dash of patience for the perfect muddling. Get ready to impress your friends with this timeless, delicious drink – the perfect homemade cocktail for any occasion!
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Woodford Reserve Bourbon (or your preferred bourbon)
- 1 sugar cube (or 1 teaspoon granulated sugar)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Ice
Instructions:
Step 1: Muddle the Sugar
Place the sugar cube (or granulated sugar) in an Old Fashioned glass. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. Using a muddler, gently crush the sugar cube until it's mostly dissolved and well-combined with the bitters. Don't over-muddle; you just want to release the sugar's sweetness and the bitters' aromatic complexity.
Step 2: Add Bourbon and Ice
Pour the Woodford Reserve bourbon into the glass. Fill the glass with large ice cubes. Using large cubes helps slow down the melting process, keeping your drink colder for longer.
Step 3: Stir Gently
Gently stir the cocktail for about 20-30 seconds. This ensures everything is well-mixed and chilled without diluting it excessively. Don't over-stir; you want a balanced drink, not a watery one.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink (twist the peel over the surface), then gently rub the peel around the rim of the glass before dropping it into the cocktail. This adds a beautiful citrus aroma and flavor. Serve immediately and enjoy responsibly.
Tips for the Perfect Old Fashioned:
- Use quality ingredients: The quality of your bourbon will significantly impact the taste of your cocktail. Woodford Reserve is an excellent choice, but feel free to experiment with other bourbons you enjoy.
- Don't over-muddle: Gently muddle the sugar; you don't want a gritty texture in your drink.
- Use large ice cubes: These melt slower, resulting in a less diluted and longer-lasting drink.
- Stir, don't shake: Shaking an Old Fashioned can make it cloudy and dilute the flavor.
- Experiment with variations: Try using different types of bitters or adding a cherry for a sweeter twist.
Variations:
- Cherry Old Fashioned: Add a maraschino cherry to the glass before adding the bourbon.
- Spiced Old Fashioned: Add a few drops of your favorite spiced bitters for a warming twist.
- Maple Old Fashioned: Substitute maple syrup for the sugar for a richer, sweeter flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 150-200 (depending on the amount of sugar used)
- Carbohydrates: Approximately 5-10g
- Protein: Negligible
- Fat: Negligible
This Old Fashioned recipe is a perfect example of a simple yet sophisticated cocktail. With its easy-to-follow instructions and delicious results, it's a must-try for both beginner and experienced mixologists. Enjoy crafting and savoring this classic!