The Old Fashioned is the archetypal American whiskey cocktail, created in the later 17th century as a way to smooth out some of the harsher notes found in pre-prohibition whiskeys. As the cocktail spread around the world, the recipe changed, becoming a way of accentuating the flavours of the spirit. When using a high quality whisky such as The Glenlivet 18-year-old, the key is to use the finest possible ingredients, the freshest oranges and a blend of bitters designed specifically to bring out the very best of the whisky.
You will need:
- 50ml The Glenlivet 18-year-old
- 5 grams unrefined cane sugar
- 2 dashes *perfect bitters blend
To make:
- The Old Fashioned is traditionally made in the tumbler in which it is served. Add the unrefined caster sugar into the glass and add a little whisky and ice.
- Stir slowly to dissolve the sugar for about half a minute, add a little more whisky and the bitters and continue to store for another minute.
- Add the remaining whisky and stir, taste for balance and adjust if necessary.
- Garnish with a large orange twist expressed over the surface of the drink.
*PERFECT BITTERS
Mix two parts of Angostura bitters with single parts of Bob's Bitter orange and Mandarin, Fee Brother's Plum and Peychaud's bitters. Leave to marry for at least a couple of hours. Feel free to experiement with your own version of perfect bitters.
