Place the sugar in a lowball glass and add the bitters. Add water and mash and swirl with a wooden spoon or muddler until the sugar is mostly dissolved. Add the Whisky and swirl in. Add a large ice cube. Squeeze a 1" strip of orange peel into the drink to release the oils. Run the peel around the edge of the glass then place it in the glass. Optional: Garnish with a cocktail cherry.
In the world of cocktails, few libations carry the weight of tradition and sophistication quite like the Old Fashioned. This iconic drink, a true classic, stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of simplicity and the art of finely crafted mixology.
At its heart, the Old Fashioned is a celebration of whiskey, typically bourbon or rye. This rich and warming spirit provides a solid foundation, offering the drinker a glimpse into the history of American whiskey-making.
The key to an authentic Old Fashioned lies in its name. It is, indeed, a simple and uncomplicated concoction. Muddled sugar and bitters combine to create a gentle sweetness that doesn't overpower the whiskey's complexity. A twist of citrus peel adds a fragrant zest, while a maraschino cherry offers a subtle fruitiness.
Served over a single, meticulously carved ice cube, the Old Fashioned is a study in elegance and restraint. Its allure lies not in flashy ingredients or complex techniques but in the careful balance of flavors that allows the whiskey to shine.
With every sip, the Old Fashioned invites you to savor the deep, contemplative notes of the whiskey and the soothing embrace of its time-honored preparation. It's more than a drink; it's a timeless masterpiece that continues to capture the hearts of cocktail enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. Raise your glass to the Old Fashioned, a drink that transcends trends and remains a symbol of refined taste.