Crafting the Classic: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making an Old Fashioned with Maker’s Mark

Introduction

The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail that has been enjoyed for generations. Its simplicity and elegance make it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making an Old Fashioned using Maker’s Mark, a premium bourbon known for its rich flavor and smooth finish.

Ingredients

Before we begin, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:

• 2 oz Maker’s Mark bourbon
• 1 sugar cube
• 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
• A few drops of water
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel or cherry for garnish (optional)

Step 1: Prepare the Glass

Start by selecting a sturdy rocks glass or an Old Fashioned glass. These glasses are designed to hold the cocktail and allow you to muddle the ingredients effectively. Fill the glass with ice cubes to chill it while you prepare the other components.

Step 2: Muddle the Sugar and Bitters

Place the sugar cube at the bottom of a mixing glass or a cocktail shaker. Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube. Using a muddler or the back of a spoon, gently crush and muddle the sugar cube with the bitters until they form a paste-like consistency.

Step 3: Add Maker’s Mark Bourbon

Once the sugar and bitters are well combined, pour 2 oz of Maker’s Mark bourbon into the mixing glass or cocktail shaker. The smooth and full-bodied flavor of Maker’s Mark will provide the perfect base for your Old Fashioned.

Step 4: Add a Few Drops of Water

To help release the flavors and aromas of the bourbon, add a few drops of water to the mixing glass or cocktail shaker. The water will help to dilute the cocktail slightly and enhance its overall taste.

Step 5: Stir and Strain

Using a bar spoon or a long-handled spoon, gently stir the mixture in the mixing glass or cocktail shaker for about 30 seconds. This will ensure that all the ingredients are well combined and the flavors are properly integrated. Once stirred, strain the cocktail into the chilled glass, discarding the ice cubes used for chilling.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

For an added touch of flavor and visual appeal, garnish your Old Fashioned with a twist of orange peel or a cherry. Simply express the oils from the orange peel over the cocktail by gently squeezing it, then rub the peel around the rim of the glass before dropping it in. Alternatively, you can place a cherry on a cocktail pick and rest it on the rim of the glass. Serve your Old Fashioned immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to consider when making an Old Fashioned:

• Experiment with different types of bitters to add unique flavors to your cocktail. Some popular options include orange bitters, chocolate bitters, and aromatic bitters.
• If you prefer a sweeter Old Fashioned, you can use simple syrup instead of a sugar cube. Simply replace the sugar cube with ½ oz of simple syrup.
• For a smoky twist, try using a peated bourbon or adding a few drops of smoky Scotch whisky to the cocktail.
• Consider using a large ice cube or an ice sphere instead of regular ice cubes. This will help to slow down the dilution of the cocktail and keep it colder for longer.

Conclusion

The Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail that never goes out of style. With Maker’s Mark bourbon as the base, you can create a truly exceptional Old Fashioned that will impress your guests and delight your taste buds. Follow this step-by-step guide, experiment with different variations, and enjoy the art of crafting this timeless cocktail.

Table: Old Fashioned Recipe Variations