Paul Kushner
The Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned is a cozy twist on a timeless favorite. Bourbon lays the foundation with its warm, oaky character, while spiced honey syrup adds rich sweetness layered with subtle spice. Fresh lemon and orange juice brighten the drink, balancing the richness with citrusy freshness. Orange bitters tie it all together, enhancing the fruit and honey notes. Finished with an orange slice and an optional rosemary sprig, this cocktail feels both comforting and refreshing, making it a versatile choice for autumn evenings, holiday gatherings, or anytime you want a bold drink with a touch of seasonal spice.
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Tasting Notes
The Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned offers a warm, citrus-forward twist on the classic cocktail. Bourbon anchors the drink with rich notes of oak, caramel, and vanilla. Lemon and orange juice brighten the mix, adding a lively balance to the deeper spirit base. Spiced honey syrup provides smooth sweetness with a gentle kick of spice, enhancing both the warmth of the bourbon and the freshness of the citrus. Orange bitters tie the flavors together with subtle sharpness. Garnished with an orange slice and optional rosemary, the drink carries a fragrant, layered character that feels both bold and inviting.
Equipment and Glassware
To prepare the Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned, you’ll need just a few tools. A cocktail shaker is necessary for blending the citrus juices, bourbon, and syrup while chilling the mixture thoroughly. A jigger ensures precise measurements, keeping the balance of citrus, sweetness, and bourbon consistent. A strainer provides a clean pour into the glass. A small knife is handy for slicing fresh orange garnishes. For serving, a rocks glass works best, showcasing the cocktail’s golden hue and providing space for fresh ice and garnish. These simple tools are all you need to create a polished drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1-2 dashes orange bitters
- 1.5 oz spiced honey syrup
- Orange slice for garnish
- Rosemary sprig for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, orange juice, spiced honey syrup, and orange bitters.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake the mixture vigorously.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a rosemary sprig, if desired.
Pro Tips
- Use freshly squeezed lemon and orange juice for the best flavor.
- Chill your rocks glass before serving to keep the drink cold longer.
- Adjust the amount of spiced honey syrup depending on your sweetness preference.
- A large ice cube will reduce dilution and give a smooth drinking experience.
- For stronger herbal notes, gently clap the rosemary sprig before garnishing.
- If making spiced honey syrup at home, experiment with cinnamon, clove, or star anise.
- Add an expressed orange peel for extra aroma and presentation.
When to Serve
The Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned is especially fitting during cooler months, when warming cocktails with spice and citrus are most comforting. It works beautifully for holiday gatherings, autumn dinners, or evenings by the fire. Its citrus brightness also makes it versatile enough to enjoy year-round, whether as a before-dinner drink or as a slow-sipping option after a meal. The cocktail’s balance of sweet, tart, and spirit-driven depth makes it appealing for bourbon enthusiasts and newcomers alike, ensuring it fits equally well at casual get-togethers or more festive celebrations.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Bourbon: Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace, or Elijah Craig for balanced flavor.
- Orange Liqueur (if substituting bitters): Cointreau or Grand Marnier for added citrus depth.
- Spiced Honey Syrup: Homemade syrup with honey, cinnamon, and clove works best; commercial brands like Bee Local Spiced Honey are good alternatives.
- Bitters: Angostura Orange or Regans’ Orange Bitters No. 6 for consistent results.
- Garnishes: Fresh orange slices and organic rosemary sprigs for aroma and presentation.
Similar Cocktails
- Orange Bourbon Sour
- Applejack Rabbit Cocktail
- Alfie’s Apple
- Peach Me Cocktail
- Peach Bourbon Thyme Smash
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 1 oz orange juice
- 1-2 dashes orange bitters
- 1.5 oz spiced honey syrup
- Orange slice for garnish
- Rosemary sprig for garnish, optional
Instructions
- In a cocktail shaker, combine the bourbon, lemon juice, orange juice, spiced honey syrup, and orange bitters.
- Add ice to the shaker and shake the mixture vigorously.
- Strain the mixture into a glass filled with fresh ice.
- Garnish with an orange slice and a rosemary sprig, if desired.
Notes
Pro Tips
- To make spiced honey syrup: simmer equal parts honey and water with spices like cinnamon, cloves, and star anise, then strain.
- Use a bold, high-proof bourbon so the whiskey’s character holds up against the citrus and syrup.
- Pre-chill your glass to keep the drink cool longer.
