The Old Fashioned stands as a pillar of cocktail culture, a testament to simple elegance and profound flavor. When crafted with Bulleit Bourbon, this iconic drink transforms into something truly special, offering a spicy, smooth, and deeply satisfying experience. This guide will walk you through creating the perfect Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail, a timeless classic that’s easy to master and guaranteed to impress.
Why This Bulleit Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe Works
- Exceptional Flavor Balance: Bulleit Bourbon’s high-rye mash bill delivers a distinct spicy character that perfectly complements the bitters and sweetness, creating a complex yet harmonious Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail.
- Effortless Sophistication: Simple to prepare, this recipe is accessible for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts.
- Timeless Appeal: Enjoy a taste of history with this classic cocktail, ensuring a drink that never goes out of style.
Essential Ingredients for Your Bulleit Old Fashioned Cocktail
Crafting an exceptional Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail hinges on quality ingredients. Here’s why each component is crucial:
- Bulleit Bourbon (2 oz): The heart of our drink. Its high-rye content provides a drier, spicier kick, cutting through sweetness for a robust, flavorful drink.
- Angostura Bitters (2 dashes): Non-negotiable for depth. These aromatic bitters add essential layers of herbal and spicy notes, elevating the drink’s complexity.
- Sugar Cube (1) or Simple Syrup (1/2 oz): The traditional sugar cube, muddled with bitters, offers slow-dissolving sweetness. Simple syrup is a quicker alternative. Adjust to taste.
- Large Ice Cube (1): Ensures controlled dilution. It melts slower, keeping your cocktail colder and stronger, preventing it from watering down.
- Orange Peel (1, for garnish): The final aromatic flourish. Expressing its oils adds a bright, citrusy aroma that enhances the bourbon and bitters, completing the sensory experience.
Mastering the Bulleit Old Fashioned Cocktail: Step-by-Step
Creating the perfect Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail is a simple, satisfying process. Follow these steps for an impeccable result:
1. Prepare the Base
Place a sugar cube in a rocks glass, add two dashes of Angostura Bitters. Muddle until dissolved. If using simple syrup, add 1/2 oz now.
2. Add the Bourbon
Pour in 2 ounces of Bulleit Bourbon, allowing it to mingle with the bitters and sugar.
3. Chill and Dilute
Add a large ice cube. Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds, until well-chilled and slightly diluted. This controlled stirring is key to a balanced cocktail.
4. Garnish and Serve
Take an orange peel, twist to express its aromatic oils over the drink, then drop it into the glass. Your exquisite Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail is ready to enjoy.
Bulleit Old Fashioned Cocktail
Equipment
- Rocks Glass
- Jigger
- Bar Spoon
- Muddler
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Bulleit Bourbon
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- 1 Sugar Cube or 1/2 oz simple syrup
- 1 Large Ice Cube
- 1 Orange Peel for garnish
Instructions
Instructions
- Place the sugar cube in a rocks glass.
- Add the Angostura Bitters directly onto the sugar cube.
- Muddle the sugar cube and bitters together until the sugar is mostly dissolved. If using simple syrup, add 1/2 oz now and skip muddling.
- Pour in the Bulleit Bourbon.
- Add a large ice cube to the glass.
- Stir gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds, or until the drink is well-chilled and slightly diluted.
- Take an orange peel, express its oils over the drink by twisting it, and then drop it into the glass as a garnish.
Notes
Expert Tips & Creative Variations for Your Bulleit Old Fashioned Cocktail
Once you’ve mastered the classic Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail, consider these tips and variations:
- Mocktail Version: Substitute Bulleit Bourbon with a quality non-alcoholic whiskey alternative or strong, cold-brewed black tea. Keep the bitters, sugar, and orange peel for an authentic flavor.
- Sweetness Adjustment: Easily tailor this cocktail. For less sweetness, use half a sugar cube or less simple syrup.
- Alternative Bitters: Experiment beyond Angostura. Orange or chocolate bitters can add unique complexity.
- Batching for Guests: Pre-batch Bulleit Bourbon, bitters, and simple syrup. Chill. When serving, pour over ice and garnish fresh for a consistent drink.
- Garnish Enhancements: A Luxardo cherry offers a sweet counterpoint. Consider smoking your glass for an extra layer of aroma. For more layered drinks, explore Mastering the B52 Shot.
Serving Your Perfect Bulleit Old Fashioned Cocktail
The Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail is versatile, ideal for unwinding or entertaining. Its robust profile pairs wonderfully with rich, savory snacks like aged cheeses, cured meats, or a perfectly grilled steak. It’s also a sophisticated choice for a quiet evening. This classic bourbon cocktail adds timeless elegance, whether hosting or enjoying solitude. For another refreshing option, try our Cranberry Vodka Lemonade Slush.
Raise a Glass to the Ultimate Bulleit Old Fashioned Cocktail
Mastering the Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail is a delightful journey into classic mixology. With Bulleit Bourbon’s distinctive high-rye character, you’re guaranteed a robust, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying sip every time. This recipe equips you with the knowledge to craft an exceptional drink, perfect for any occasion. So, gather your ingredients, follow our guide, and prepare to impress yourself and your guests with this timeless classic. Cheers to the perfect Bulleit Old Fashioned cocktail!
What is an Old Fashioned?
An Old Fashioned is a classic cocktail made with whiskey (typically bourbon or rye), bitters, sugar (or simple syrup), and a garnish, usually an orange peel.
What kind of bourbon is best for an Old Fashioned?
Bulleit Bourbon is an excellent choice for an Old Fashioned due to its high rye content, which offers a spicy kick that perfectly complements the bitters and sweetness. Other great options include Woodford Reserve, Maker’s Mark, or Knob Creek.
How do you garnish an Old Fashioned?
The traditional garnish for an Old Fashioned is an orange peel. You should express the oils from the peel over the drink before dropping it in. Some variations also include a maraschino cherry.