Paul Kushner
The Christmas Old Fashioned brings a festive twist to a classic favorite. With rye whiskey, cranberry simple syrup, and a sugared rim, this cocktail embodies the warmth and cheer of the holiday season. Fresh cranberries and an orange garnish add a seasonal touch, making it a beautifully festive drink for holiday gatherings.
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Ingredients
- 2 ounces rye whiskey
- 4 dashes Angostura bitters
- 0.5 ounce cranberry simple syrup adjust to taste
- 3 cranberries for muddling
- Sugar for rimming (optional)
- cranberries for garnish (optional)
- Orange slice for garnish
Instructions
- If you prefer a sugared rim, dip the rim of a rocks glass in cranberry simple syrup, then in sugar to coat.
- Place 3 fresh cranberries in the glass and muddle them gently to release their flavors.
- Add an ice ball or large ice cube to the glass.
- In a separate mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, cranberry simple syrup, and Angostura bitters.
- Add ice to the mixing glass, then stir the mixture until thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over the ice ball.
- Garnish with an orange slice and additional cranberries for a festive presentation.
Notes
Pro Tips
- For a homemade cranberry simple syrup, simmer fresh cranberries with equal parts water and sugar until the berries burst. Strain and cool for a deliciously festive syrup.
- Use an ice ball or large ice cube to keep the cocktail cold without diluting the flavors too quickly.
- Adjust the amount of cranberry simple syrup based on your preference for sweetness.
Tasting Notes
The Christmas Old Fashioned combines the bold, spicy notes of rye whiskey with a touch of tart cranberry sweetness and warm, aromatic bitters. The sugared rim adds an extra layer of sweetness, complementing the drink’s rich flavors. Fresh cranberry and orange garnishes enhance the holiday feel, making this a merry, flavorful cocktail perfect for sipping by the tree.
