Classic Bourbon Old Fashioned

This rich and sophisticated Four Roses Bourbon Old Fashioned celebrates the art of simplicity in cocktail making. The perfect balance of smooth bourbon, subtle sweetness, and aromatic bitters creates a drink that deserves to be savored slowly. I've perfected this recipe over years of home bartending, finding that Four Roses bourbon offers just the right flavor profile for a truly memorable Old Fashioned.

I first learned to make this cocktail from my grandfather who insisted the orange peel was non-negotiable. After years of experimenting with different bourbons, I've found Four Roses offers the ideal flavor profile that both cocktail enthusiasts and bourbon newcomers appreciate.

Ingredients

• 2 oz Four Roses Bourbon: the star of the show with its smooth character and subtle fruitiness
• 1 sugar cube or ½ tsp simple syrup: adds just enough sweetness to balance the bourbon without overwhelming it
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters: provides complexity and that classic spiced aroma
• 1 orange peel: fresh oils brighten the drink and enhance the bourbon's natural orange notes
• 1 large ice cube: slows dilution and keeps your drink properly chilled
• Splash of water: optional but helps dissolve sugar and opens up the bourbon's flavors
• Maraschino cherry: optional garnish that adds a touch of sweetness and visual appeal

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Base:

Place the sugar cube in a rocks glass and saturate with Angostura bitters. If using simple syrup instead, pour it directly into the glass. Muddle thoroughly until the sugar completely dissolves. Add a tiny splash of water if needed to help with dissolution. The goal is a smooth sweet base without any sugar granules remaining.

Add the Bourbon:

Pour in the full 2 ounces of Four Roses Bourbon. Gently stir about 20 times to incorporate all ingredients without overmixing. The drink should maintain some robustness while allowing the flavors to harmonize.

Chill and Garnish:

Add one large ice cube or several smaller ones to the glass. Large ice is preferable as it melts more slowly allowing you to enjoy the drink before it becomes too diluted. Twist the orange peel firmly over the surface of the drink to express the essential oils then rub it around the rim of the glass. This step is crucial as it adds bright citrus notes that complement the bourbon beautifully.

Final Touch:

If desired drop in a maraschino cherry for additional sweetness and visual appeal. Give the drink one last gentle stir before enjoying. The cocktail should look amber and clear with a subtle orange aroma rising from the glass.

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My favorite part about this recipe is the moment the orange oils hit the surface of the drink creating tiny golden droplets that shimmer in the light. My father taught me that this visual cue means you've done it right. I still remember him saying "You drink an Old Fashioned first with your eyes and nose, then with your palate."

The Ice Matters

The quality and size of ice dramatically affects your Old Fashioned. Large single cubes or spheres melt more slowly preventing excessive dilution. Clear ice not only looks more professional but also melts more evenly. If you want to elevate your cocktail experience invest in silicone molds for larger ice cubes or consider making clear ice by using the directional freezing method. The difference is remarkable especially for a spirit forward drink like an Old Fashioned.

Bourbon Selection Guide

While Four Roses makes this Old Fashioned shine other bourbons can create interesting variations. Look for bourbons in the 90–100 proof range which stand up well to dilution. Four Roses Small Batch offers more complexity while their Single Barrel version brings more robust character. For a softer approach Basil Hayden works beautifully and for a spicier version try Bulleit. Avoid extremely high proof bourbons as they can overpower the delicate balance of the cocktail.

Serving Suggestions

The Old Fashioned pairs wonderfully with rich foods that complement its depth. Serve alongside aged cheeses particularly sharp cheddar or gouda. For a memorable dessert pairing try dark chocolate with sea salt or butter cookies. This cocktail also stands up beautifully to smoked meats making it perfect for barbecue gatherings. I love serving Old Fashioneds before dinner as guests arrive giving everyone time to slowly enjoy the complex flavors while appetizers are passed around.

Historical Context

The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s making it one of America’s first documented cocktails. Originally simply called a Whiskey Cocktail it earned its current name when drinkers began requesting their drinks made the old fashioned way as bartenders started creating more elaborate concoctions. The sugar cube tradition comes from an era before simple syrup was common in bars. Four Roses has its own rich history having survived prohibition as one of the few distilleries permitted to produce bourbon for medicinal purposes. This recipe honors both the classic approach while highlighting a truly American bourbon with deep historical roots.

Recipe FAQs

→ What makes Four Roses Bourbon ideal for an Old Fashioned?

Four Roses Bourbon offers the perfect balance of smoothness and character for an Old Fashioned. Its notes of caramel, vanilla, and light spice complement the bitters and orange, while its 90-proof strength stands up well to dilution from ice, maintaining flavor throughout your drinking experience.

→ Should I use a sugar cube or simple syrup?

Both work well but offer slightly different experiences. Sugar cubes are traditional and add a subtle texture, though they require more muddling. Simple syrup incorporates more easily and ensures even sweetness throughout the drink. For beginners, simple syrup is more foolproof, while purists might prefer the ritual of dissolving a sugar cube.

→ Why is a large ice cube recommended?

A large ice cube melts more slowly than several small cubes due to less surface area, providing gradual dilution without quickly watering down your drink. This allows the Old Fashioned to maintain its strength while slowly opening up additional flavor notes as you sip. If you don't have large cubes, regular ice works fine - just be aware it will dilute slightly faster.

→ What's the importance of the orange peel technique?

Twisting the orange peel over the drink releases essential oils that add aromatic complexity without the acidic juice. Running the peel around the rim ensures every sip carries subtle citrus notes. This technique contributes significantly to the drink's sophisticated flavor profile by highlighting the bourbon's natural spice characteristics without overwhelming them.

→ Can I substitute other whiskeys for Four Roses Bourbon?

Absolutely. While Four Roses creates an excellent Old Fashioned with its balanced profile, you can experiment with other bourbons or even rye whiskey for a spicier version. Each whiskey will produce a unique character - higher proof options provide more intensity, wheated bourbons offer softer sweetness, and ryes contribute peppery notes. The essential quality is using a whiskey you enjoy drinking neat.

→ Is there a proper way to stir an Old Fashioned?

Yes - gentle stirring is key. The goal is to combine ingredients and slightly chill without over-diluting. Use a bar spoon or teaspoon and stir in a circular motion for about 10-15 seconds. Avoid aggressive stirring that would quickly melt the ice or incorporate too much air into this spirit-forward cocktail. The ideal Old Fashioned maintains its rich, silky texture.