Bold, smooth, and bursting with deep cherry flavor, the Double Cherry Old Fashioned is a refined take on the timeless cocktail. The warmth of bourbon is perfectly complemented by the rich sweetness of Luxardo cherry syrup and the subtle complexity of maraschino liqueur. Aromatic and orange bitters add a layer of depth, while an orange twist enhances the citrus notes. Served over ice and garnished with luxuriously sweet Luxardo cherries, this cocktail is a sophisticated yet easy-to-enjoy drink—ideal for whiskey lovers who appreciate a fruity, well-balanced twist on tradition.
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Tasting Notes
The Double Cherry Old Fashioned is a rich, smooth, and slightly fruity take on the classic Old Fashioned. The deep warmth of bourbon is complemented by the sweetness of cherry syrup and maraschino liqueur, while the aromatic and orange bitters add a refined balance. A hint of citrus from the garnish ties everything together for a bold yet elegant sipping experience.
Equipment and Glassware
To make this cocktail, you’ll need an Old Fashioned (rocks) glass to serve, a mixing glass for stirring, a bar spoon for smooth mixing, and a jigger for precise measurements. A strainer ensures a clean pour, and a sharp peeler or knife is useful for the orange twist garnish.
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces Bourbon
- 1/2 ounce Cherry Syrup from the cherry luxardo jar
- 1/2 ounce Maraschino Liqueur
- 1 dash Aromatic Bitters
- 1 dash Orange Bitters
- Orange Twist for garnish
- 2 Luxardo Cherries Garnish
Instructions
- Begin by chilling an Old Fashioned glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water for a few minutes.
- In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon, cherry syrup, and maraschino liqueur.
- Add a dash of aromatic bitters and a dash of orange bitters.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mixture well until it is well-chilled. This usually takes about 30 seconds.
- Remove your Old Fashioned glass from the freezer or empty the ice water if you were chilling it that way and fill the glass with ice.
- Strain the cocktail mixture over the ice in the prepared Old Fashioned glass. Make sure to pour it slowly to maintain clarity and texture.
- Express the oils of an orange twist over the drink and then rim the glass with the twist. Drop the twist into the drink as a garnish.
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Double Cherry Old Fashioned.
Pro Tips
- For a stronger cherry flavor, muddle a Luxardo cherry in the mixing glass before adding the liquid ingredients.
- Use a large, clear ice cube in your Old Fashioned glass to slow dilution and enhance presentation.
- If you prefer a slightly drier version, reduce the cherry syrup to ¼ oz.
- For a more citrus-forward variation, add a second orange twist.
- Choose a well-balanced bourbon that pairs well with cherry flavors, such as a wheated bourbon.
When to Serve
The Double Cherry Old Fashioned is ideal for after-dinner sipping, intimate gatherings, whiskey tastings, or any occasion where a sophisticated yet slightly sweet cocktail is desired. It’s perfect for fall and winter months but enjoyable year-round.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
For the best results, use a rich, smooth bourbon like:
- Woodford Reserve
- Buffalo Trace
- Eagle Rare
For maraschino liqueur, Luxardo Maraschino Liqueur is the top choice, and Angostura and Regan’s Orange Bitters work well for depth and complexity.
Similar Cocktails
If you enjoy Double Cherry Old Fashioned, here are five similar cocktails to try:
- Oak Smoked Old Fashioned
- Dark Chocolate Old Fashioned
- Cherry Bourbon Lemonade
- Earl Grey–Bourbon Punch
- Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 1 1/2 ounces Bourbon
- 1/2 ounce Cherry Syrup from the cherry luxardo jar
- 1/2 ounce Maraschino Liqueur
- 1 dash Aromatic Bitters
- 1 dash Orange Bitters
- Orange Twist for garnish
- 2 Luxardo Cherries Garnish
Instructions
- Chill the Glass:
- Begin by chilling an Old Fashioned glass by placing it in the freezer or filling it with ice water for a few minutes.
- Mix Ingredients:
- In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon, cherry syrup, and maraschino liqueur.
- Add a dash of aromatic bitters and a dash of orange bitters.
- Stir:
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mixture well until it is well-chilled. This usually takes about 30 seconds.
- Prepare the Glass:
- Remove your Old Fashioned glass from the freezer or empty the ice water if you were chilling it that way and fill the glass with ice.
- Strain:
- Strain the cocktail mixture over the ice in the prepared Old Fashioned glass. Make sure to pour it slowly to maintain clarity and texture.
- Garnish:
- Express the oils of an orange twist over the drink and then rim the glass with the twist. Drop the twist into the drink as a garnish.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately and enjoy your Double Cherry Old Fashioned.
How do you “make” the cherry bourbon?
we just mix the luxardo cherry syrup with the bourbon