How to Make the Perfect Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned is one of the world's oldest and most beloved cocktails. Simple in construction but sophisticated in character, a well-made Old Fashioned showcases the spirit at its heart — making your bourbon or rye selection crucial.
Classic Old Fashioned Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
- 1 sugar cube (or 1 tsp simple syrup)
- 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
- Splash of water or soda (optional)
- Orange peel, for garnish
- Maraschino cherry, optional garnish
Instructions:
- Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned (rocks) glass and saturate with bitters. Add a splash of water if using a sugar cube.
- Muddle the sugar until dissolved.
- Add a large ice cube or several standard cubes to the glass.
- Pour in 2 oz of your preferred bourbon or rye whiskey.
- Stir gently for 20–30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
- Express the orange peel over the glass, run it around the rim, and drop it in (or discard).
- Garnish with a cherry if desired. Serve and enjoy.
Choosing the Right Whiskey
The Old Fashioned is a spirit-forward cocktail — the whiskey IS the drink. We recommend:
- Bourbon: Rich, sweet expressions like Buffalo Trace, Bulleit, or Blanton's work beautifully
- Rye Whiskey: For a spicier, drier finish, try Rittenhouse or Sazerac Rye
- High-proof options: Cask strength bourbons add extra depth and complexity
Pro Tips
- Use one large ice cube — it chills without over-diluting
- Quality bitters matter — Angostura is classic, but try orange or aromatic variations
- Never shake an Old Fashioned — always stir
- Experiment with different sugars (demerara, maple) for subtle complexity
Shop our full bourbon and rye whiskey selection at Liquor Geeks to find your perfect Old Fashioned base.
