Mastering the Old Fashioned & Cozy Variations

Welcome to the heart of whiskey season! The Old Fashioned is the ultimate classic—simple, spirit-forward, and endlessly adaptable. Whether you're curling up by the fire in New York City's chilly February nights or just craving something warm and sophisticated, these recipes highlight bourbon or rye with subtle sweetness and spice. Start with the timeless original, then try our winter twists featuring maple, cinnamon, or holiday aromatics. All use basic tools (rocks glass, bar spoon, jigger) and ingredients most liquor cabinets already have. Cheers to easier evenings and better drinks!

The Classic Old Fashioned

Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes

The grandfather of cocktails—bold, balanced, and perfect any time of year. This version keeps it spirit-forward with just enough sweetness to shine.

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey. Frank's go-to is Angel's Envy Bourbon
• 1 sugar cube (or ½ tsp simple syrup)
• 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Splash of water (~1 tsp)
• Large ice cube
• Garnish: orange peel twist + optional Luxardo cherry

Instructions:

1. In a rocks glass, add sugar cube, bitters, and water. Muddle gently until mostly dissolved.
2. Add whiskey and a handful of ice. Stir 20–30 seconds to chill and dilute.
3. Add a large fresh ice cube (if needed). Express orange peel oils over the top by twisting skin-side down, then drop it in. Add cherry if using.

Quick notes: Prep time 5 min | Serves 1 |

Pro tip: Use a high-quality bourbon like Buffalo Trace for vanilla notes that pair perfectly with winter.

Maple Old Fashioned Recipe

Makes 1 cocktail | Prep time: 5 minutes

A cozy winter twist on the classic—pure maple syrup replaces the sugar for rich, earthy sweetness that pairs beautifully with whiskey. It's simple, spirit-forward, and perfect for chilly NYC evenings.

• 2 oz High West Double Rye (for spicy kick) or High West Bourbon (for smoother sweetness)—or try 1 oz each for their signature blend style
• ½ oz (1 tablespoon) pure maple syrup (real Grade A; adjust to ¼–¾ oz based on sweetness preference)
• 2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
• Splash of water (~1 tsp)
• Large ice cube
• Garnish: wide orange peel twist (fresh orange from produce, expressed for oils) + optional Luxardo cherry or cinnamon stick for winter flair

Instructions:

1. In a rocks glass (old-fashioned glass), add the maple syrup and Angostura bitters.
2. Pour in the whiskey. Add a splash of water if you like it slightly diluted (optional, ~1 tsp).
3. Fill the glass with ice (a large cube is ideal for slow melting and less dilution).
4. Stir gently but thoroughly for 20–30 seconds until well-chilled and combined—the maple syrup should fully incorporate.
5. Express the orange peel by twisting it skin-side down over the drink to release the oils, then drop it in (or rub around the rim first for extra aroma). Add a cherry or cinnamon stick if desired.

Pro Tips from the Cabinet:

• Use a higher-proof bourbon or rye from your stock for bold flavor that stands up to the maple.
• Maple syrup brings natural vanilla and caramel notes—perfect match for bourbon's sweetness or rye's spice.
• No muddling needed—keeps it clean and quick for home mixing.