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In my humble opinion, when it comes to cocktails, it doesn’t get much better than an Old Fashioned.
This is a drink of which Ron Swanson would approve. After all, he did utter these wise words:
It’s a classic cocktail that’s deceptive in its complexity. I say “deceptive” because it really only involves a handful of ingredients, many of which you may have in your home bar already. It doesn’t even involve shaking or much stirring!
When it comes to garnishes, you’ll definitely want to use an orange peel (or wedge) for that fresh orange flavor and aroma. And though a regular old maraschino cherry from a jar is fine (or no cherry at all, depending on your tastes) you can definitely kick up the fanciness a notch by garnishing your Old Fashioned with a homemade Luxardo Cherry. They couldn’t be easier to make and really add something to this drink.
And, yes. That is a bottle of rye in the picture. I had just finished off the last of my bourbon when making the pictured cocktail and I wanted to include a relatively full bottle of brown liquor in the photo. While we’re on the subject, it is worth noting that you can change things up and make an Old Fashioned with rye, too, if you’re so inclined.
- 1 sugar cube
- 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters, see notes
- small splash water
- ice
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 orange peel or wedge, for garnish
- 1 Maraschino or Luxardo cherry, for garnish (see notes)
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Add the sugar cube to the bottom of a rocks glass. Douse with bitters and a a small splash of water. Use a bar spoon to stir until the sugar has dissolved.
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Add ice to the glass.
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Pour bourbon over ice and stir.
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Add orange peel and cherry for garnish.
Notes:
- Angostura bitters are preferred, but orange-flavored bitters would work well, too.
- The recipe for Homemade Luxardo Cherries can be found here!
I only ask that you imbibe with some amount of caution, as Old Fashioned cocktails are basically all booze.
In need of more bourbon-based cocktails? Girl, I’ve got you. Check out my Bourbon Moscow Mules, Blood Orange Bourbon Sours, Mint Juleps, and Bourbon Pumpkin Shrub Cocktails (Fall is around the corner, after all!).
Hahahaha! Oh my, I sure do love how you started out this post! That is one of my favorite shows ever! And yes, Ron would totally approve of this cocktail 😉
Ron Swanson is a wise man 😉
Haha. I love the Parks and Rec reference. My husband and I are currently binging the series for the first time (I’d only caught episodes here and here before, and enjoyed it! But I’m an Office girl through and through). Anyway, Ron Swanson is pure gold.
This drink though! It’s so perfect in all of its simplicity. Love love love it with cherries <3
yay for a good parks & rec quote! this is a gorgeous drink
I’ve never seen Parks and Recs but I can appreciate the text on the photo! 🙂 I love old fashioned cocktails and yours looks fabulous! And for the cherry, Luxardo all the way!
The perfect holiday drink!!
There’s nothing better than an old fashioned version! This looks good!
I love that you make your own cherries too! What a great way to make a special cocktail!