The Old Stand By Recipe

Measure and combine

Add 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 2 dashes Angostura bitters and 1 dash orange bitters (if using) to the mixing glass. Add approximately 0.25 tsp demerara or simple syrup only if you prefer a touch of sweetness; the Old Stand By is traditionally dry—taste preference determines use.

Stir chill and dilute

Fill the mixing glass with plenty of ice. Using a bar spoon, stir gently but firmly for 20–30 seconds (about 20–30 full rotations) until the outside of the glass feels very cold and some dilution has occurred. This chills and integrates the cocktail without over-aerating it.

Prepare serving glass

Place a single large ice cube (or several smaller cubes) into an old-fashioned (rocks) glass.

Strain

Using a strainer, pour the stirred cocktail from the mixing glass into the prepared old-fashioned glass over the large ice cube.

Express orange oil

Take the orange peel and hold it skin-side down over the glass. Give it a firm twist to express the oils across the surface of the drink, then rub the peel around the rim to impart more aroma.

Garnish

Drop the expressed orange peel into the glass. Optionally add a maraschino cherry on a pick for a little extra sweetness and visual appeal.

Serve immediately. The Old Stand By is best enjoyed slowly to appreciate the balance of whiskey, vermouth and bitters as the ice slowly mellows the drink.

After serving, rinse or wipe the mixing glass and bar spoon. Clean tools promptly so syrup and bitters do not stick. If using a channel knife or peeler for the orange, rinse or wipe it as well.