How to Make the Best Old Fashioned Recipe

An Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless classic, revered by cocktail enthusiasts for its simplicity and robust flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can craft a drink that's both elegant and flavorful. At The Liquor Barn, we’re here to help you make the best Old Fashioned recipe using premium ingredients, including Traverse City Demerara Simple Syrup and some of our top-selling bourbons.

Ingredients for the Best Old Fashioned Recipe

To create an Old Fashioned that impresses, start with high-quality ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

2 oz of bourbon (choose from our top recommendations below)
1/2 oz Traverse City Demerara Simple Syrup – Buy Now
2 dashes of aromatic bitters - Buy Now
Orange peel (for garnish)
Starlino Maraschino Cherries - Buy Now
Ice (preferably a large cube or sphere for slow dilution)

Step-by-Step Guide on How to Make an Old Fashioned

Prepare Your Glass: Use a rocks glass and add the Traverse City Demerara Simple Syrup. This syrup’s rich molasses undertones elevate the drink’s flavor.
Add Bitters: Add two dashes of aromatic bitters to the glass. The bitters balance the sweetness and enhance the complexity of the bourbon.
Add Bourbon: Pour 2 oz of your favorite bourbon. Here are some of our top recommendations:
- Buffalo Trace Bourbon – Shop Buffalo Trace
- Woodford Reserve – Shop Woodford Reserve
- Maker’s Mark 46 – Shop Maker’s Mark 46
Stir: Add a large ice cube to the glass and gently stir for about 20-30 seconds. Stirring chills the drink and dilutes it slightly, bringing out its full flavor profile.
Garnish: Express the oils of an orange peel over the drink by gently squeezing it over the glass. Drop the peel into the drink for added aroma. Add a three maraschino cherries.
Enjoy!

Why Use Traverse City Demerara Simple Syrup?

Traverse City Demerara Simple Syrup brings a rich, deep sweetness that standard simple syrups can’t match. Its molasses-forward flavor pairs beautifully with bourbon, making it an essential ingredient for the best Old Fashioned recipe.

Choosing the Right Bourbon for Your Old Fashioned

The bourbon you choose greatly influences your Old Fashioned cocktail’s character. Here’s a quick guide to our top-selling bourbons:

Buffalo Trace Bourbon: This bourbon offers a smooth, well-rounded profile with hints of caramel and vanilla. It’s a crowd-pleaser for any Old Fashioned enthusiast.
Woodford Reserve: Known for its richness and complexity, Woodford Reserve adds depth and a slightly nutty flavor to your cocktail.
Maker’s Mark 46: With enhanced spice and oak notes, Maker’s Mark 46 delivers a bold and unique twist to the traditional Old Fashioned.

Old Fashioned Cocktail Variations

Want to mix it up? Here are a few variations to try:

Smoky Old Fashioned: Swap out bourbon for a smoky Scotch.
Spiced Old Fashioned: Add a dash of cinnamon or nutmeg to the syrup for a warm, spiced profile.
Maple Old Fashioned: Use maple syrup instead of Demerara syrup for a hint of sweetness.

Elevate Your Cocktail Game

Making the perfect Old Fashioned doesn’t have to be intimidating. With Traverse City Demerara Simple Syrup and premium bourbons from The Liquor Barn, you’re set to craft an unforgettable drink.

Explore our full selection of bourbons and cocktail essentials to elevate your at-home bar experience. Shop now at TheLiquorBarn.com and start mastering the art of the Old Fashioned cocktail today.