No objections to any of your choices, but I have a hack if you are lazy or don't have cherries or fruit. Make your own old fashioned simple syrup. Super easy and one batch will last ages in the fridge. For mine I add the dried orange and cherries directly to the syrup to get those hints. You can get dried Oranges and cherries at a very fancy shop called Trader Joes that work perfectly. For my syrup I use 3/4 cup of water 3/4 cup of sugar. 3-4 slices of dried oranges, 8-10 dried cherries. Put everything in a pyrex measuring cup microwave it until it boils and let steep until cooled. Super rich syrup with depth of the cherries and oranges. Takes no time and then you can riff on the other ingredients (I like Peychauds and Regan's Orange bitters). Cheers to Newfangled Old Fashioned.
Oh I like this idea. I mess with making an old fashioned many ways. but this is the first time I see someone make an old fashioned simple syrup. I like this idea. thanks and cheers
I make my own cinnamon simple syrup to make it an old-fashioned recipe. I got while down at Disney and a restaurant in Disney Springs. One cup of water, one cup of sugar heat until dissolved. Throw in six cinnamon sticks cracked in half medium boil for five minutes simmer for 20 let cool double strain into whatever container you want to serve and refrigerate absolutely delicious.
Loved the vid. I’ve used Grand Marinier in place of the simple syrup. Tip - pour the simple syrup in the jigger first, then the whiskey. The whiskey rinses the sticky syrup out of the jigger. 🥃🥃
2.5oz is a "martini pour" of liquor. We do martini pours of liquor for manhattans, old fashioneds, obviously martinis, and cosmos. Especially if they are top shelf. So the spirit is forward. 100%!
I just made one. A friend gave me two bottles of Grand Mariner I have been trying to find a use for. I love the maple syrup in it. I may cut that back a little as I am not huge on sweet drinks. Overall I am impressed. Thanks for the hints.
I just made one...mind blown. It is absolutely fantastic. Best Old Fashioned I've ever had. It has such a richness to it with the maple syrup and the orange liquer. I'll be having mind this way from now on. Thanks!!!!
My sugar is always Demerara thick syrup, but only add a quarter oz. Then I always add a half slice of orange to stirring container (not muddled) before I add ice and stir. Garnish with orange zest I’ve expressed over finished drink and then rubbed around glass edge, and also three Woodford Reserve bourbon cherries (a consensus choice during a cocktail cherry tasting with friends).
I know I’m not the first to say it in here, but wow, seriously the best I’ve ever had. I’m blown away. I’ve had plenty of old fashioneds in bars, restaurants, liquor stores… this is at the top. THANK YOU! Subscribed!
Perfect I too use the grand marnier as well. Tried it for the heck of it at home a couple of years ago and have been using it ever since. However, that is what I use to not only give it the orange flavor but for the sweetness as well so I don’t use any other sweetener 9:39 luxardo cherry is a must have and an orange peel
I do the same thing with the cherry juice and typically use orange and angostura bitters along with simple syrup. Never thought of using maple syrup with Grand Marnier and will definitely try this! I do mix in a cocktail mixing glass with cubed ice and stir quickly for 30-45 seconds to blend and chill before straining into a cocktail glass with block ice. Thanks for the video!
El. Oh. El. This is literally the old fashioned I make, right down to the dash of cherry juice. Same constraints too. I don’t ever have reason to keep simple syrup at home nor an orange. 10/10 highly recommend.
I tried this tonight and it is quite solid! Another delicious variant. If anyone is looking for a completely different twist... try blackberry simple syrup (I made my own) and using a couple dashes of black walnut bitters (you can also add a small dash of Angosrura as well, if you fancy). So, 2oz bourbon, 2 dashes black walnut bitters (plus an option dash Angistura), 1/2oz blackberry simple syrup, express a lemon twist, and garnish with a couple fresh blackberries. Very nice pour!
I do something very similar. I love using maple syrup instead of making my own simple syrup, and when I don't have oranges I use Ferrand Dry Curacao orange liqueur (less sweet) - for same reasons of what do I have on hand that tastes like an orange...
I use Cointreau... My daughter did a semester abroad for college where Cointreau is made. She brought us a bottle and my bar has not been without since. Don't care for the maple syrup, prefer demarara syrup.
When I get real maple syrup, I take out (use) an ounce of the syrup or two then add bourbon whiskey. So I like the idea of using maple syrup in an old fashion!
Nice video. My variation is similar. It's our no 1 drink at the Tolhouse in Toledo. Raw sugar cubes, top it with both orange and yellow bitters. Then splash of grand marnier. Then add 🧊 and 114 Old Overholt Rye and stir for 30 seconds. Garnish with luxardo cherry and orange slice. For the vibrant.
Love this episode. I've used Grand Marnier or Cointeau. Also, my simple syrup is 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup water, cooked on the stove to invert the sugar. Then add 1/8 cup of pure maple syrup or molasses. 1/4 oz simple syrup 1/2 or Squirt 3 dash bitters 2.5 oz bourbon Orange and cherry garnish Enjoy with loved ones and friends
Thanks! Love the Maple Syrup and Grand M hack. FYI - If you’re like me and you love Spicy things, add about 5 drops of “Fire Tincture” for a nice Bite to the finish! And yes, Luxardo cherries are a must! It pains me to spend $25-30 bucks for a jar of cherries but without them it’s just not a good Old Fashion!
I do the same thing with the orange liqueur! It also started because I didn't have an orange on hand. I also make simple syrup with brown sugar instead of white sugar.
I also use maple syrup pretty often. Regular old Buffalo Trace is my go to bourbon. I use Orange bitters for my orange flavor. Something else to try, use black walnut bitters instead of angostura. It gives a bit of a fall vide.
I've just found my new "go to" cocktail. The way Josh went through and explained each ingredient and its use and why and the look of anticipation on Erin's face as the drink was made looking forward to the end so she could have a sip was both priceless and funny. Great presentation and add me to the list of Old Fashioned fans. Just made my first one according to your recipe and it stood tall and proud. Thank you for the introduction. Just subscribed to your channel. Keep 'em coming!
Shaker & Spoon sells food grade orange (and lemon) oil in small atomizer bottles that are shelf stable. Super easy, lasts “forever,” and you get that essence of the orange.
A couple of scant drops of very good quality real vanilla extract are another great secret ingredient to an Old Fashioned. And several makers now market dehydrated orange slice that get you most of the way there as a substitute for the orange twist, for aroma. Cheers.
I sometimes like to add the vanilla extract to the simple syrup. Also learned from a bartender add a little vodka to the simple syrup and it will last a lot longer. cheers
I generally use a small aerosolizer with an ounce of vodka and about 6 drops of food grade orange oil and spritz around the inside of the glass after building and stirring the drink. I think I'll give the grand Marnier a try. Also, maple syrup and black walnut bitters are made for one another. One more riff I do occasionally is use Starlight blackberry whiskey in place of my sugar component. It's a sweet, full proof whiskey that also works well with black walnut or chocolate bitters. Cheers!
This cocktail has many names in the cocktail books I have from the late 1800s through prohibition - 'The Canadian' is the name that shows up most often.
@@stuffandwhiskey True; we've done it a few times, and they usually don't have the cherry. That's one of the biggest problems with researching cocktail history - it all gets really murky with the same cocktail called multiple names, or multiple different cocktails using the same name.
Brandy fan here, Cognac is fantastic. I’m not an old fashioned guy but I had my second old fashioned with rum and it was so good. If I want a whiskey cocktail, I’ll make a Vieux Carré.
There’s loads of slight variations on this and I find it fun to play around with the recipe. I have used black walnut bitters with maple syrup and bourbon (especially double oaked) Another favorite is the Hunter cocktail which uses Herring’s cherry liqueur for the sugar source and Orange bitters with a luxardo cherry. Fantastic. I have also tried this with rye instead of bourbon. Lastly, I made a spiced Demerara simple syrup with cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. Used with bourbon and Orange bitters. Perfect for the holidays.
First time viewer, nice video. I began making my syrup which would be similar to yours. I use the following: Demerara Sugar (for color and texture) Water Pure Maple Couple tsps of Luxardo cherry juice I will say though, I am becoming quite the clear ice snob and that was not my intention when I started making it a couple of years ago. I am so used to making my drinks with them that when I go out to a nice place and order a cocktail that comes with dirty ice, I feel like they may have cut corners elsewhere as well. You taste with your eyes as well and I am sure that's all it is. Sorry for being THAT guy!! Anyways, great video.
The old fashioned is my goto, especially when chilling at home. Here is my favorite recipe. Bourbon of choice but a strong the better, Horse Soldier is solid. 1/4oz Angestora Orange Bitters, 1/8oz Angestora Aromatic Bitters, and yep same thing maple syrup. I do a bar spoon, which is basically 1/8oz. I tried all the other sugars with this cocktail, and the maple syrup is top tier.
Love a good Old Fashioned. Can't wait to try it. The grand Mariner sounds yummy! My favorite is the Old Fashioned that Admiral Chester Nimitz served in Pearl Harbor during WWII, the CincPac Special. Two parts Bourbon, one part dark rum, a sugar cube and a stick of vanilla (I substitute Bourbon Vanilla paste).
Mexican Coke and Eagle Rare with a Luxardo! I also use orange liquore in old fashions because of not having oranges on hand. In fact Chattanooga Whiskey just released an orange liquore that will be my go to for that! Great video do more cocktails!
Great idea, I love a good twist in my OF. Recently I tried 3 you might like. .5 oz of Chambord(raspberry) or .5oz of Heering(cherry) or get this .5oz of Ancho Reyes(chili) . The ancho goes best with WT101 Rye.
Love a good wild turkey 101 old fashioned. I also like using barrel proof bourbons because I like a spirit forward cocktail too (rebel has been my go to for that). For my sugar I use habanero infused honey. No real wrong way to do it unless you don’t use luxardo cherries
I buy a couple oranges, cut the rind off in sections and put them in my large ice cube trays. Fill with water and let sit at room temperature for a couple hours and then freeze. You can taste the citrus surprisingly quick.
For making my own syrups, I have on hand Orange Blossom Water. I have a bit in a spritz bottle for washing a rocks glass when making an old fashioned. I'll also occasionally use a dash of orange bitters in addition to the Angostura. That way I don't have to worry about keeping an orange on hand all the time.
I enjoy all your videos, but I love me an old fashioned. So this video was right up my alley. I love your version being classic and adding a little extra. I will need to try to make this one. thanks for sharing. cheers
Ooh, you definitely got me wondering about this. I'm not equipped to make this up right now (no Grand Marnier) but whether I end up doing it or not I accord you points for both the orange liqueur and maple syrup. Very inspired!
Oohh - love the secret ingredient for the OF and will have to try! I'm in Cali and those orange orbs fall from the sky...but that sounds like a good option. Maple all day long...Cheers, y'all, and agree that the best steaks are the ones you make!
Agreed! I much prefer my own mixed drinks. I like Old Fashioneds, but I much prefer Manhattan Ryes! Ryan Cecil turned my on to substituting walnut bitters and fresh maple syrup in the Old Fashioned recipe.
Bittermilk is a fantastic old fashioned mix!! If you want to keep things simple that’s perfect. And if you don’t want to pay for Luxardo cherries Tillen Farms Bada Bing cherries are awesome! Thanks for the info and new recipe!
I generally use maple syrup in my old fashioned as well. I also rarely have oranges, I rinse my glass with an Orange liqueur like if you were rinsing a glass with Absinthe for a Saerac. I use Gator Bite, a Satsuma orange liqueur from my home state of Louisiana.
My favorite is to make a citrus simple syrup with lemon, lime, orange and sometimes mandarin, grapefruit or blood orange zest. A similar concept but a bit different on the execution.
Tillen or Tilden(?) Farms- Bada Bing cherries. Luxardo cherries, in my opinion, are a little mushy. The Bada Bings have a nice crunch. They make regular, rum and bourbon versions. All 3 are delicious, especially after soaking in your OF cocktail.
It’s crazy that Wild Turkey would ever be hard to find! Here in California you can get it at the gas station. This video is awesome! I love old fashioned, and I think I’m pretty good at making one too.
My favorite version 2.5oz EHT SmB 0.25oz Giffard Vanille De Madagascar 0.25oz Demerara syrup (adjust if you want sweater) 2-3 dash Ango 1 dash El guapo barrel aged vanilla bitter Stir over a rock, orange peel, luxardo cherry
This video just popped up on my feed so I gave it a watch (subscribed too). Like you, maple syrup is my go-to as well. I'm going to try the Grand Manier in my next one. WT 101 and Benchmark Full Proof are my go to mixers.
I recommend trying the Liber and Co. Gum Syrup. It enhances the mouth feel. Also, try Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters or Dale DeGroff's Pimento Bitters
Love the variant on a classic. I will definitely try the GM. Never thought of the maple syrup. I have used Walnut bitters which have a Maple flavor. Subbed to learn more. Thanks for sharing! Cheers!
Great episode, but all of them are great! I have made this exact Old Fashioned recipe many times, and it is excellent. The splash of Grand Marnier is an excellent addition. I also never have oranges, and as someone else suggested in another comment, I use candied orange slices from Trader Joes. You can sometimes find them at other grocery stores, too. I also only use the Luxardo cherries. If you haven't tried adding one or two dashes of Black Walnut Bitters to your Old Fashioned, you should try it sometime, too. It really compliments the Maple Syrup, and it adds depth to any version of the cocktail. If you are looking for a fun format to try, I have a suggestion. When I get a bourbon I have never tried before, besides trying it blind against similar bourbons (thanks to your channel and my wife for helping!), I try it 3 ways. I try it neat first. Then if it is over 100 Proof I will either pour it over a piece of ice or add water to proof it down to 100 proof to see how it changes the flavor. Then I make an Old Fashioned out of it. I know that to do this blind on your channel could be a bit complicated, although you could pre-batch it, but I have been surprised sometimes by how a bourbon I did not love neat was better with water or in a cocktail. Anyway, love your channel! You guys are the best.
Thanks for the video! Great tip on using maple syrup and Grand Marnier. I typically use Demerara syrup but will try maple syrup. I also use Rittenhouse Rye, it’s delicious in an OF. BTW: I’m exactly the same when comes to ordering OFs or steaks out. I reverse sear my steaks on my Traeger and they are awesome.
Like you, I have built mine with maple syrup for several years now. Living in MN it just seems like the right thing to do 😊! However, I do prefer the black walnut bitters though. For a Friday night treat I will use a smoker on the deck occasionally! ❤Love your channel!!!
It never came to mind what the 4 ingredients are (or should be) as spirit, sugar, water and bitters and ratio. You have opened something in me that needs exploration with trial and error. Wow, looking forward to my next drink(s).
Can’t wait to try this version. I also never order these out unless I’m thoroughly convinced they will make it right. OF Rye 100 or EW100 are my two staples here.
Another great video! I enjoyed spending a few minutes with you both this evening. Josh, keep mixing your old fashioned to Erin's taste. Happy wife; happy life!
I also used OGD 114 because I like a proofy inexpensive whiskey in my OF’s. I had a second with Still Austin Cask Strength Rye and it was fantastic as well. Thank you! I may never make simple syrup again.
If I don't have fresh oranges, I usually use dried orange slices and a few dashes of orange bitters, but I'll try GM next time! For sweetener I usually just use blue agave.
A couple of years ago I had a craving for an Old Fashioned, but I didn’t have any oranges. I looked in my wife’s baking cabinet, and I found a bottle of McCormick Pure Orange Extract. I added two drops of that, and it worked perfectly. Now that’s part of my standard recipe. Oh, and I use pure Vermont maple syrup in place of simple syrup too.
Mine is very similar including the Grand Marnier, but use OGD 114 when I want a bit more proof or OF 100 Rye when more rye forward. I also go excessive on the bitters, 5-7 dashes, sometimes black walnut but usually standard. I will try out the maple syrup next time I make one. Living in WI, Old Fashioneds are a staple but most here use brandy. I’ll enjoy those but prefer using high rye bourbon or rye. OGD 114 makes a killer Old Fashioned.
For a Japanese twist on the old fashioned, the Grey Wolf: 2oz Japanese whiskey(hibiki harmony is great) 1/4 oz simple syrup 1/4 oz benedictine 1 dash plum vinegar 2 dashes angostura bitters
What it sounds like you're making is a slight riff on a Claremont which is also a riff on the old fashioned. Recipe for a Claremont would be w/ dry curacao (which is similar to Marnier as its with brandy and oranges and Grand Marnier is a blend of cognac and triple sec). 1.5 oz bourbon 3/4 oz dry curaçao 3 dashes Angostura Splash of soda water Some versions call for muddling an orange slice and cherry in the glass and removing the orange slice before building the cocktail. Since you like the added syrup of the maraschino cherries, you'd also like the Improved Whisky Cocktail which uses just a little Maraschino Liqueur.... 2 ounces bourbon 1 barspoon maraschino liqueur 1/4 ounce simple syrup 1 dash absinthe 1 dash Angostura bitters 1 dash Peychaud’s bitters Love all of your videos, thank for the hard work and dedication making them!
No objections to any of your choices, but I have a hack if you are lazy or don't have cherries or fruit. Make your own old fashioned simple syrup. Super easy and one batch will last ages in the fridge. For mine I add the dried orange and cherries directly to the syrup to get those hints. You can get dried Oranges and cherries at a very fancy shop called Trader Joes that work perfectly. For my syrup I use 3/4 cup of water 3/4 cup of sugar. 3-4 slices of dried oranges, 8-10 dried cherries. Put everything in a pyrex measuring cup microwave it until it boils and let steep until cooled. Super rich syrup with depth of the cherries and oranges. Takes no time and then you can riff on the other ingredients (I like Peychauds and Regan's Orange bitters). Cheers to Newfangled Old Fashioned.
Oh I like this idea. I mess with making an old fashioned many ways. but this is the first time I see someone make an old fashioned simple syrup. I like this idea. thanks and cheers
I make my own cinnamon simple syrup to make it an old-fashioned recipe. I got while down at Disney and a restaurant in Disney Springs.
One cup of water, one cup of sugar heat until dissolved. Throw in six cinnamon sticks cracked in half medium boil for five minutes simmer for 20 let cool double strain into whatever container you want to serve and refrigerate absolutely delicious.
@@alanrnmahler nice sure beats fireball!
@@alanrnmahler that sounds great. gonna have to try it. cheers
@ the recipe for the “Cold fashioned “ old-fashioned is even better!!!!!
Loved the vid. I’ve used Grand Marinier in place of the simple syrup. Tip - pour the simple syrup in the jigger first, then the whiskey. The whiskey rinses the sticky syrup out of the jigger. 🥃🥃
Bourbon + Maple Syrup + Black Walnut Bitters X2 and Orange X1 Bitters = 🔥🔥
2.5oz is a "martini pour" of liquor. We do martini pours of liquor for manhattans, old fashioneds, obviously martinis, and cosmos. Especially if they are top shelf. So the spirit is forward. 100%!
I just made one. A friend gave me two bottles of Grand Mariner I have been trying to find a use for. I love the maple syrup in it. I may cut that back a little as I am not huge on sweet drinks. Overall I am impressed. Thanks for the hints.
I just made one...mind blown. It is absolutely fantastic. Best Old Fashioned I've ever had. It has such a richness to it with the maple syrup and the orange liquer. I'll be having mind this way from now on. Thanks!!!!
Glad it was a home run for you too! Cheers!
My sugar is always Demerara thick syrup, but only add a quarter oz. Then I always add a half slice of orange to stirring container (not muddled) before I add ice and stir. Garnish with orange zest I’ve expressed over finished drink and then rubbed around glass edge, and also three Woodford Reserve bourbon cherries (a consensus choice during a cocktail cherry tasting with friends).
This. Always Demerara syrup. Always.
Nice my specs are:
2 oz Elijah Craig BP
1/3 oz Demerara Syrup
2 Dashes of Ango Bitters
Luxardo Cherry, Lemon & Orange Peel Garnish
I know I’m not the first to say it in here, but wow, seriously the best I’ve ever had. I’m blown away. I’ve had plenty of old fashioneds in bars, restaurants, liquor stores… this is at the top.
THANK YOU! Subscribed!
Glad we could help and glad to have you on board! Cheers!
Regan's No. 6 Orange Bitters is a great option to add a little of orange flavor to your Old Fashioned as well.
Perfect I too use the grand marnier as well. Tried it for the heck of it at home a couple of years ago and have been using it ever since. However, that is what I use to not only give it the orange flavor but for the sweetness as well so I don’t use any other sweetener 9:39 luxardo cherry is a must have and an orange peel
You should try an oz of Amaretto in your old fashioned..... It will change your life!
Yes!
Ogd114, amaretto for syrup and walnut bitters. Trust me
I do the same thing with the cherry juice and typically use orange and angostura bitters along with simple syrup. Never thought of using maple syrup with Grand Marnier and will definitely try this! I do mix in a cocktail mixing glass with cubed ice and stir quickly for 30-45 seconds to blend and chill before straining into a cocktail glass with block ice. Thanks for the video!
El. Oh. El. This is literally the old fashioned I make, right down to the dash of cherry juice. Same constraints too. I don’t ever have reason to keep simple syrup at home nor an orange. 10/10 highly recommend.
The secret ingredient was the Luxardo cherries. For the citrus notes, I use orange bitter with the angoustura bitter.
I tried this tonight and it is quite solid! Another delicious variant. If anyone is looking for a completely different twist... try blackberry simple syrup (I made my own) and using a couple dashes of black walnut bitters (you can also add a small dash of Angosrura as well, if you fancy).
So, 2oz bourbon, 2 dashes black walnut bitters (plus an option dash Angistura), 1/2oz blackberry simple syrup, express a lemon twist, and garnish with a couple fresh blackberries. Very nice pour!
I do something very similar. I love using maple syrup instead of making my own simple syrup, and when I don't have oranges I use Ferrand Dry Curacao orange liqueur (less sweet) - for same reasons of what do I have on hand that tastes like an orange...
I use Cointreau... My daughter did a semester abroad for college where Cointreau is made. She brought us a bottle and my bar has not been without since. Don't care for the maple syrup, prefer demarara syrup.
When I get real maple syrup, I take out (use) an ounce of the syrup or two then add bourbon whiskey. So I like the idea of using maple syrup in an old fashion!
Nice video. My variation is similar. It's our no 1 drink at the Tolhouse in Toledo.
Raw sugar cubes, top it with both orange and yellow bitters. Then splash of grand marnier. Then add 🧊 and 114 Old Overholt Rye and stir for 30 seconds. Garnish with luxardo cherry and orange slice.
For the vibrant.
Just made your recipe with exactly the same ingredients and it was delicious!
Then I got curious and smoked it with some cherry wood.
Even better! 😁👍
Love this episode. I've used Grand Marnier or Cointeau. Also, my simple syrup is 1/2 cup brown sugar, 1/2 cup water, cooked on the stove to invert the sugar. Then add 1/8 cup of pure maple syrup or molasses.
1/4 oz simple syrup
1/2 or Squirt
3 dash bitters
2.5 oz bourbon
Orange and cherry garnish
Enjoy with loved ones and friends
Thanks! Love the Maple Syrup and Grand M hack.
FYI - If you’re like me and you love Spicy things, add about 5 drops of “Fire Tincture” for a nice Bite to the finish!
And yes, Luxardo cherries are a must! It pains me to spend $25-30 bucks for a jar of cherries but without them it’s just not a good Old Fashion!
I do the same thing with the orange liqueur! It also started because I didn't have an orange on hand. I also make simple syrup with brown sugar instead of white sugar.
I also use maple syrup pretty often. Regular old Buffalo Trace is my go to bourbon. I use Orange bitters for my orange flavor. Something else to try, use black walnut bitters instead of angostura. It gives a bit of a fall vide.
I've just found my new "go to" cocktail. The way Josh went through and explained each ingredient and its use and why and the look of anticipation on Erin's face as the drink was made looking forward to the end so she could have a sip was both priceless and funny. Great presentation and add me to the list of Old Fashioned fans. Just made my first one according to your recipe and it stood tall and proud. Thank you for the introduction. Just subscribed to your channel. Keep 'em coming!
Great video as usual. I use a splash of Cointreau sometimes which is great as well. Bourbon Barrel Maple Syrup from Walmart is a great choice as well.
Love seeing variations of the old fashioned. I’ll be trying this one soon, thanks!!!
Shaker & Spoon sells food grade orange (and lemon) oil in small atomizer bottles that are shelf stable. Super easy, lasts “forever,” and you get that essence of the orange.
A couple of scant drops of very good quality real vanilla extract are another great secret ingredient to an Old Fashioned. And several makers now market dehydrated orange slice that get you most of the way there as a substitute for the orange twist, for aroma. Cheers.
I sometimes like to add the vanilla extract to the simple syrup. Also learned from a bartender add a little vodka to the simple syrup and it will last a lot longer. cheers
I generally use a small aerosolizer with an ounce of vodka and about 6 drops of food grade orange oil and spritz around the inside of the glass after building and stirring the drink. I think I'll give the grand Marnier a try. Also, maple syrup and black walnut bitters are made for one another. One more riff I do occasionally is use Starlight blackberry whiskey in place of my sugar component. It's a sweet, full proof whiskey that also works well with black walnut or chocolate bitters. Cheers!
I am going to make the orange oil spritz. I have been buying mine from Shaker & Spoon. Much prefer to make things.
This cocktail has many names in the cocktail books I have from the late 1800s through prohibition - 'The Canadian' is the name that shows up most often.
I’m looking those up now and they’re not quite this, but now we’re thinking of this with some Found North and bet that would be very good!
@@stuffandwhiskey True; we've done it a few times, and they usually don't have the cherry. That's one of the biggest problems with researching cocktail history - it all gets really murky with the same cocktail called multiple names, or multiple different cocktails using the same name.
Brandy fan here, Cognac is fantastic. I’m not an old fashioned guy but I had my second old fashioned with rum and it was so good. If I want a whiskey cocktail, I’ll make a Vieux Carré.
I use half rye and half calvados in my Old fashioned. Works nicely inn the fall. Big fan of the JTS Brown as well
There’s loads of slight variations on this and I find it fun to play around with the recipe.
I have used black walnut bitters with maple syrup and bourbon (especially double oaked)
Another favorite is the Hunter cocktail which uses Herring’s cherry liqueur for the sugar source and Orange bitters with a luxardo cherry. Fantastic. I have also tried this with rye instead of bourbon.
Lastly, I made a spiced Demerara simple syrup with cinnamon, cloves, and star anise. Used with bourbon and Orange bitters. Perfect for the holidays.
First time viewer, nice video. I began making my syrup which would be similar to yours. I use the following:
Demerara Sugar (for color and texture)
Water
Pure Maple
Couple tsps of Luxardo cherry juice
I will say though, I am becoming quite the clear ice snob and that was not my intention when I started making it a couple of years ago. I am so used to making my drinks with them that when I go out to a nice place and order a cocktail that comes with dirty ice, I feel like they may have cut corners elsewhere as well. You taste with your eyes as well and I am sure that's all it is. Sorry for being THAT guy!!
Anyways, great video.
Thank you for sharing this recipe, love your channel, it’s awesome 👍👍🥃🥃
My favorite cherry is the Woodford Reserve brand. Less of candy cherry vs the luxardo. Highly recommend you try em! Great video as well you two.
The old fashioned is my goto, especially when chilling at home. Here is my favorite recipe. Bourbon of choice but a strong the better, Horse Soldier is solid. 1/4oz Angestora Orange Bitters, 1/8oz Angestora Aromatic Bitters, and yep same thing maple syrup. I do a bar spoon, which is basically 1/8oz. I tried all the other sugars with this cocktail, and the maple syrup is top tier.
OF Rye 100 is my go to for old fashioned cocktails yum. I also use angostura and orange angostura bitters
I use an Amaro (Angeleno) made by a local distillery for that extra orange bitter flavor. Love GM as well. Thanks for sharing
Great video. On the list to try this weekend! 🥃
Love a good Old Fashioned. Can't wait to try it. The grand Mariner sounds yummy! My favorite is the Old Fashioned that Admiral Chester Nimitz served in Pearl Harbor during WWII, the CincPac Special. Two parts Bourbon, one part dark rum, a sugar cube and a stick of vanilla (I substitute Bourbon Vanilla paste).
I made it and I do have to say one of the best, thanks for the recipie. Used 101 and Whistle pig maple syrup.
Mexican Coke and Eagle Rare with a Luxardo!
I also use orange liquore in old fashions because of not having oranges on hand.
In fact Chattanooga Whiskey just released an orange liquore that will be my go to for that!
Great video do more cocktails!
Great idea, I love a good twist in my OF. Recently I tried 3 you might like. .5 oz of Chambord(raspberry) or .5oz of Heering(cherry) or get this .5oz of Ancho Reyes(chili) . The ancho goes best with WT101 Rye.
Love a good wild turkey 101 old fashioned. I also like using barrel proof bourbons because I like a spirit forward cocktail too (rebel has been my go to for that). For my sugar I use habanero infused honey.
No real wrong way to do it unless you don’t use luxardo cherries
Nice video on the classic cocktail! Old Grand Dad bonded is also a good bourbon for this classic. I agree the orange peel is a plus!
I use a dash of Triple Sec for the orange flavor, going to have to try it with maple syrup. Great recipe!
I buy a couple oranges, cut the rind off in sections and put them in my large ice cube trays. Fill with water and let sit at room temperature for a couple hours and then freeze. You can taste the citrus surprisingly quick.
That black walnut bitters is what I use for that secret ingredient
oh yea that black walnut bitters is an awesome secret ingredient. I love adding that too. cheers
I use it when I make rye old fashioned to balance the bite. Good stuff
For making my own syrups, I have on hand Orange Blossom Water. I have a bit in a spritz bottle for washing a rocks glass when making an old fashioned. I'll also occasionally use a dash of orange bitters in addition to the Angostura. That way I don't have to worry about keeping an orange on hand all the time.
I enjoy all your videos, but I love me an old fashioned. So this video was right up my alley. I love your version being classic and adding a little extra. I will need to try to make this one. thanks for sharing. cheers
Looks great. Cocktail videos are always welcome.
Ooh, you definitely got me wondering about this. I'm not equipped to make this up right now (no Grand Marnier) but whether I end up doing it or not I accord you points for both the orange liqueur and maple syrup. Very inspired!
I use maple RD1 or Widow Jane Decadence. With all your ingredients. Great video.
Oohh - love the secret ingredient for the OF and will have to try! I'm in Cali and those orange orbs fall from the sky...but that sounds like a good option. Maple all day long...Cheers, y'all, and agree that the best steaks are the ones you make!
I just tried this recipe and it was delicious. The best old fashioned I have had in a long time. Thanks for sharing.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Wow. Thank you for sharing! The Grand Marnier is genius!
Agreed! I much prefer my own mixed drinks. I like Old Fashioneds, but I much prefer Manhattan Ryes! Ryan Cecil turned my on to substituting walnut bitters and fresh maple syrup in the Old Fashioned recipe.
Bittermilk is a fantastic old fashioned mix!! If you want to keep things simple that’s perfect. And if you don’t want to pay for Luxardo cherries Tillen Farms Bada Bing cherries are awesome! Thanks for the info and new recipe!
I generally use maple syrup in my old fashioned as well. I also rarely have oranges, I rinse my glass with an Orange liqueur like if you were rinsing a glass with Absinthe for a Saerac. I use Gator Bite, a Satsuma orange liqueur from my home state of Louisiana.
My favorite is to make a citrus simple syrup with lemon, lime, orange and sometimes mandarin, grapefruit or blood orange zest. A similar concept but a bit different on the execution.
Tillen or Tilden(?) Farms- Bada Bing cherries. Luxardo cherries, in my opinion, are a little mushy. The Bada Bings have a nice crunch. They make regular, rum and bourbon versions. All 3 are delicious, especially after soaking in your OF cocktail.
It’s crazy that Wild Turkey would ever be hard to find! Here in California you can get it at the gas station. This video is awesome! I love old fashioned, and I think I’m pretty good at making one too.
JTS Brown is hard to find and a Jim Beam Kentucky only release.
Glad I found your channel! I like the twists you suggested for my go-to cocktail.
We appreciate you checking us out!
I make a lot of syrups. I recently made some with choke cherries and combined it with gin; it makes a great replacement for orange bitters.
We can second this recipe! It’s legit simple and good. Secret ingredient really works.
We are glad you enjoyed it!
My favorite version
2.5oz EHT SmB
0.25oz Giffard Vanille De Madagascar
0.25oz Demerara syrup (adjust if you want sweater)
2-3 dash Ango
1 dash El guapo barrel aged vanilla bitter
Stir over a rock, orange peel, luxardo cherry
Have never tried the Grand Marnier, but I add a dash of vanilla to the maple syrup. Going to try your recipe 👍🏼
This video just popped up on my feed so I gave it a watch (subscribed too). Like you, maple syrup is my go-to as well. I'm going to try the Grand Manier in my next one. WT 101 and Benchmark Full Proof are my go to mixers.
Glad you liked the video and WT101 is definitely a good one!
Four Roses SB or SBS makes the best cocktails, whether old fashioned, mint julep, or whatever. Also fantastic in french toast.
I recommend trying the Liber and Co. Gum Syrup. It enhances the mouth feel. Also, try Fee Brothers Black Walnut Bitters or Dale DeGroff's Pimento Bitters
Love the variant on a classic. I will definitely try the GM. Never thought of the maple syrup. I have used Walnut bitters which have a Maple flavor. Subbed to learn more. Thanks for sharing! Cheers!
Cocktail episodes is a wonderful idea. Thanks!!
Demerara syrup also works great for the sugar element!
Good job. Something to try. Replace the bourbon with Bumbu rum. A major delicious twist.
Just bought the ingredients I didn’t have and did the rye version. Delicious. Thanks for sharing.
Great episode, but all of them are great! I have made this exact Old Fashioned recipe many times, and it is excellent. The splash of Grand Marnier is an excellent addition. I also never have oranges, and as someone else suggested in another comment, I use candied orange slices from Trader Joes. You can sometimes find them at other grocery stores, too. I also only use the Luxardo cherries. If you haven't tried adding one or two dashes of Black Walnut Bitters to your Old Fashioned, you should try it sometime, too. It really compliments the Maple Syrup, and it adds depth to any version of the cocktail.
If you are looking for a fun format to try, I have a suggestion. When I get a bourbon I have never tried before, besides trying it blind against similar bourbons (thanks to your channel and my wife for helping!), I try it 3 ways. I try it neat first. Then if it is over 100 Proof I will either pour it over a piece of ice or add water to proof it down to 100 proof to see how it changes the flavor. Then I make an Old Fashioned out of it. I know that to do this blind on your channel could be a bit complicated, although you could pre-batch it, but I have been surprised sometimes by how a bourbon I did not love neat was better with water or in a cocktail.
Anyway, love your channel! You guys are the best.
Thanks for the video! Great tip on using maple syrup and Grand Marnier. I typically use Demerara syrup but will try maple syrup. I also use Rittenhouse Rye, it’s delicious in an OF. BTW: I’m exactly the same when comes to ordering OFs or steaks out. I reverse sear my steaks on my Traeger and they are awesome.
Like you, I have built mine with maple syrup for several years now. Living in MN it just seems like the right thing to do 😊! However, I do prefer the black walnut bitters though. For a Friday night treat I will use a smoker on the deck occasionally! ❤Love your channel!!!
My Hack' is adding a dash or 2 or Orange Bitters, along with the Angostura bitters to give it that little bit of Orange flavor.
Great, looks delicious! Trying out this recipe this weekend. Thanks, Josh!
Bourbon 1792, peychauds bitters, angostura orange bitters, Sirop de Saizon Lux cherries and a slice of orange.
It never came to mind what the 4 ingredients are (or should be) as spirit, sugar, water and bitters and ratio. You have opened something in me that needs exploration with trial and error. Wow, looking forward to my next drink(s).
It’s a fun journey! Cheers!
I tried this the other day. Seriously impressed.
Great idea with the maple syrup my favorite old fashioned mix is the one whistlepig does every year with runamuk maple company
Can’t wait to try this version. I also never order these out unless I’m thoroughly convinced they will make it right. OF Rye 100 or EW100 are my two staples here.
Another great video! I enjoyed spending a few minutes with you both this evening. Josh, keep mixing your old fashioned to Erin's taste. Happy wife; happy life!
Fantastic-I used Cointreau instead of the orange brandy
I also used OGD 114 because I like a proofy inexpensive whiskey in my OF’s. I had a second with Still Austin Cask Strength Rye and it was fantastic as well. Thank you! I may never make simple syrup again.
If I don't have fresh oranges, I usually use dried orange slices and a few dashes of orange bitters, but I'll try GM next time! For sweetener I usually just use blue agave.
Erin hasn't had my old fashioned yet 😊. Rex Cherries are a great alternative much cheaper IMO CHEERS.
A couple of years ago I had a craving for an Old Fashioned, but I didn’t have any oranges. I looked in my wife’s baking cabinet, and I found a bottle of McCormick Pure Orange Extract. I added two drops of that, and it worked perfectly. Now that’s part of my standard recipe. Oh, and I use pure Vermont maple syrup in place of simple syrup too.
How much maple syrup do you use ? Because I have some damn fine maple syrup…
My not so secret ingredient is the syrup from the Luxardo cherries jar, 1/2 and 1/2 with Demerara syrup. Cheers!
Mine is very similar including the Grand Marnier, but use OGD 114 when I want a bit more proof or OF 100 Rye when more rye forward. I also go excessive on the bitters, 5-7 dashes, sometimes black walnut but usually standard.
I will try out the maple syrup next time I make one. Living in WI, Old Fashioneds are a staple but most here use brandy. I’ll enjoy those but prefer using high rye bourbon or rye. OGD 114 makes a killer Old Fashioned.
Just went and got all these ingredients and made one with saz rye oh mqn is it good
I’ll have to try the maple syrup idea. I like to make it using brown sugar in the simple syrup.
For a Japanese twist on the old fashioned, the Grey Wolf:
2oz Japanese whiskey(hibiki harmony is great)
1/4 oz simple syrup
1/4 oz benedictine
1 dash plum vinegar
2 dashes angostura bitters
Nice version. I often use maple syrup and a dash of orange bitters alongside the angostura, but the Grand Marnier really adds a nice twist to it.
What it sounds like you're making is a slight riff on a Claremont which is also a riff on the old fashioned.
Recipe for a Claremont would be w/ dry curacao (which is similar to Marnier as its with brandy and oranges and Grand Marnier is a blend of cognac and triple sec).
1.5 oz bourbon
3/4 oz dry curaçao
3 dashes Angostura
Splash of soda water
Some versions call for muddling an orange slice and cherry in the glass and removing the orange slice before building the cocktail.
Since you like the added syrup of the maraschino cherries, you'd also like the Improved Whisky Cocktail which uses just a little Maraschino Liqueur....
2 ounces bourbon
1 barspoon maraschino liqueur
1/4 ounce simple syrup
1 dash absinthe
1 dash Angostura bitters
1 dash Peychaud’s bitters
Love all of your videos, thank for the hard work and dedication making them!