Opso Old Fashioned Recipe

Make honey syrup (if not prepared)

Combine equal parts honey and hot water (for example 1/4 cup honey + 1/4 cup hot water). Stir until fully dissolved and cool. Store refrigerated. This recipe uses 0.5 oz of the syrup.

Build the cocktail

Place a mixing glass or shaker over ice. Add 2 oz Woodford Reserve bourbon, 0.5 oz Rakomelo, 0.5 oz honey syrup, and 2 dashes Angostura bitters.

Stir

Stir the mixture for 20–30 seconds until properly chilled and slightly diluted (about 12–16 double turns) to achieve a silky texture.

Prepare glass

Place a single large ice cube in an Old Fashioned (rocks) glass.

Strain

Double-strain or fine-strain the chilled cocktail into the glass over the large ice cube.

Express and garnish

Express an orange peel over the drink by holding it skin-side down about 2–3 inches above the glass and giving it a firm twist to release oils. Rub the peel on the glass rim, then drop it into the drink. If using, flame a smoked cinnamon stick briefly and hold it over the glass to impart a faint smoke aroma before placing it as a garnish, or add a lemon twist instead.

For extra aroma, briefly torch the orange peel (carefully) or light the cinnamon stick until it smolders, then cover the glass for a few seconds to capture smoke before serving.