Spring Old Fashioned

The Spring Old Fashioned is a fresh, seasonal twist on the classic cocktail. It keeps the rich, smooth base of bourbon or rye whiskey but adds a bright, floral touch with a splash of elderflower liqueur or a hint of lavender syrup. A dash of orange or cherry bitters brings a light, fruity balance. Serve it over a large ice cube in a lowball glass and garnish with a lemon twist or an edible flower for a clean, spring-inspired finish. It’s a perfect way to enjoy a bold drink with a lighter, more refreshing character.

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Tasting Notes

The Spring Old Fashioned is a softer, slightly sweeter take on the classic, perfect for warming weather and easy sipping. Whiskey brings familiar warmth and depth, while amaretto adds a nutty, floral sweetness that lifts the drink into springtime territory. Orange bitters and a fresh citrus garnish tie everything together with a burst of brightness. It’s rich yet refreshing, with a smooth, subtly complex profile that’s both comforting and seasonal.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a mixing glass and bar spoon for stirring, a jigger for accurate measurements, and a strainer for a clean pour. Serve in a rocks glass over a large ice cube to chill the drink slowly. A peeler or paring knife is useful for prepping the orange peel garnish.

Ingredients

• 2 oz whiskey
• 0.5 oz amaretto
• 2 dashes orange bitters
• Orange peel or slice (for garnish)

Instructions

• Build the Cocktail: In a mixing glass, combine whiskey, amaretto, and orange bitters.
• Stir: Add ice and stir until chilled and diluted, about 20 seconds.
• Strain: Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
• Garnish: Express an orange peel over the drink, then drop it in, or garnish with a fresh orange slice.

Pro Tips

• Chill your rocks glass ahead of time to maintain a colder sip.
• Use a bourbon for a sweeter base, or rye for more spice and bite.
• Try a floral amaretto (like Disaronno Velvet) for a spring-inspired twist.
• For added elegance, infuse your orange peel with edible rose water or a drop of lavender extract.

When to Serve

Perfect for early spring evenings, garden gatherings, or as a seasonal nightcap, the Spring Old Fashioned offers a refreshing update to a beloved classic. Its blend of whiskey and amaretto provides warmth and a smooth, nutty richness, while orange bitters and fresh citrus brighten the flavor profile.

This cocktail strikes a balance between comforting and crisp, making it an excellent choice for those looking to ease into warmer weather with something familiar yet subtly refreshed. Whether you’re hosting a small get-together or enjoying a quiet moment, it’s a thoughtful twist that suits any springtime occasion.

Which Liquor Brands to Use

• Whiskey: Woodford Reserve, Four Roses, or Bulleit Rye
• Amaretto: Disaronno, Lazzaroni, or Luxardo
• Orange bitters: Regans’ No. 6, Angostura Orange, or Fee Brothers
• Garnish: Use a thick, wide orange peel for maximum oil expression

Similar Cocktails

• Dark Chocolate Old Fashioned
• Oak Smoked Old Fashioned
• Pot of Gold
• Bourbon Cranberry Old Fashioned
• Spiced Maple Bourbon Fizz

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