1. Old Fashioned

A classic of classics, the drink contains whiskey and is considered one of the first cocktails in history - hence its name.

According to cocktail historian David Wondrich, the Old Fashioned is a direct descendant of the earliest known cocktail, which in 1806 consisted of "a little water, a little sugar, a lot of liquor and a couple splashes of bitters." Purists may scoff at the inclusion of a muddled cherry, but if it brings you pleasure, don't hold back.

Ingredients

• Bourbon or rye whiskey

• This is the main ingredient, so you’ll want to pick a quality bottle. It doesn’t have to be expensive — it just has to be one you like! Some of my favorites are Basil Hayden’s, Four Roses, and Rowan’s Creek.

• Bitters

• Aromatic Angostura bitters add depth to the cocktail.

• Sugar

• A little demerara sugar or regular granulated takes a little bit of the bourbon bite out of the cocktail.

• Orange

• Twist the peel over the glass before adding so the orange oils enhance the aroma of the cocktail.

• Cherries

• While optional, a speared Luxardo cherry adds a nice final touch.

How to prepare

1. Dissolve the sugar.

• Stir water, demerara sugar, and Angostura bitters together in a mixing glass or cocktail shaker until the sugar is nearly dissolved.

2. Mix the cocktail.

• Fill the mixing glass or cocktail shaker with ice, add 2 ounces bourbon, and stir until well-chilled.

3. Pour the cocktail through a strainer into the glass.

• Twist the orange peel directly over the cocktail’s surface, then garnish with the peel. Garnish with 1 to 2 Luxardo cherries if using.

Helpful Tips

• Swap sugar for maple syrup or honey.
• Use smoky mezcal instead of bourbon or rye whiskey.
• Chill the glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes before serving to keep the cocktail extra-cold.

Enjoy your Old Fashioned!