bourbon old fashioned recipe

 Recipe for a Bourbon Old Fashioned:

The bourbon old-fashioned is a classic cocktail that is full of flavor and character. This drink typically consists of bourbon whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a citrus peel for garnish.

The bourbon provides a rich and complex base for the cocktail, with its notes of vanilla, oak, and caramel. The sugar adds sweetness to balance out the bitterness of the bitters, which are typically made from a blend of aromatic spices and herbs.

The citrus peel garnish adds a bright and zesty note to the drink, which helps to elevate the flavors and aromas of the bourbon.

Overall, the bourbon old-fashioned is a timeless cocktail that is perfect for sipping and savoring on a quiet evening or for enjoying with friends at a lively social gathering. Its full and robust flavors are sure to please even the most discerning palate.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 1 sugar cube or 1 tsp sugar
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• Orange peel
• Ice
• Club soda (optional)

Instructions:

1. Place the sugar cube or sugar in an Old Fashioned glass.
2. Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of club soda (if using).
3. Use a muddler or spoon to muddle the sugar and bitters together until the sugar is dissolved.
4. Add a large ice cube to the glass.
5. Pour in 2 oz of bourbon.
6. Use a bar spoon to gently stir the ingredients together.
7. Express the oils from an orange peel over the glass by twisting it over the drink and then place the peel in the glass.
8. Serve and enjoy!

Tips:

1. Use good quality bourbon for the best flavor.
2. Use a sugar cube instead of granulated sugar for a more authentic Old Fashioned.
3. Angostura bitters are the traditional choice for an Old Fashioned, but you can experiment with other bitters if you prefer.
4. Use a large ice cube or sphere to slow down dilution and keep your drink cold without watering it down too quickly.
5. Muddle the sugar and bitters together well to ensure the sugar is fully dissolved.
6. Be gentle when stirring the drink to avoid over-diluting it.
7. Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink to add a nice aroma and flavor.
8. Use a vegetable peeler to cut the orange peel for a wider and longer piece, which makes it easier to express the oils.
9. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry for a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
10. If you prefer a sweeter drink, add more sugar to taste.
11. Club soda is optional and can be added to give the drink a bit of fizz.
12. You can also use a lemon twist or grapefruit peel instead of orange for a different flavor profile.
13. Use a good quality muddler to ensure you can properly muddle the sugar and bitters together.
14. Use a good quality glass that is appropriate for serving an Old Fashioned.
15. Don't overdo it with the bitters, as a little goes a long way.

Common Questions and Answers:

Q: What is the origin of the Old Fashioned cocktail? A: The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that dates back to the 1800s. It is believed to have originated in the Midwest, with Wisconsin being a popular contender for its birthplace.

Q: Can I use a different type of whiskey instead of bourbon? A: Yes, you can use a different type of whiskey such as rye or blended whiskey, but bourbon is the traditional choice for an Old Fashioned.

Q: Do I have to use a sugar cube, or can I use granulated sugar? A: A sugar cube is traditional, but you can use granulated sugar if that's all you have. Just make sure to fully dissolve the sugar before adding the other ingredients.

Q: Can I make an Old Fashioned in a shaker? A: An Old Fashioned is traditionally made in an Old Fashioned glass without a shaker, but you can use a shaker if you prefer.

Q: What is the difference between an Old Fashioned and a Manhattan?

While both cocktails contain whiskey, the Old Fashioned and the Manhattan are two distinct cocktails with different flavor profiles and ingredients.

An Old Fashioned is made by muddling a sugar cube with bitters and a splash of water or club soda in an Old Fashioned glass, then adding a large ice cube and 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey. The drink is finished with an orange peel and a Luxardo cherry.

A Manhattan, on the other hand, is made by stirring together 2 ounces of rye whiskey or bourbon with 1 ounce of sweet vermouth and a few dashes of Angostura bitters. The drink is then strained into a chilled cocktail glass and garnished with a cherry.

In summary, while both cocktails contain whiskey and bitters, the Old Fashioned is a simpler drink with a focus on whiskey and citrus, while the Manhattan is a more complex drink with the addition of sweet vermouth.