Grand Old Fashioned Recipe

Measure & Add

Measure 2 oz Maker's Mark bourbon and pour into an old fashioned glass or mixing glass if you prefer stirring before building.

Sweeten & Bitters

Add 0.25 oz (about 1/2 tablespoon) simple syrup to the glass, then add 3 dashes Angostura bitters and 1 dash orange bitters if using.

Ice & Stir

Add a large ice cube (or 2–3 large cubes) to the glass. Using a bar spoon, stir gently for about 20–30 seconds (10–15 full revolutions) to chill and slightly dilute the drink—this integrates the syrup and bitters with the bourbon.

Express Orange Oil

Take the orange peel (about 2x1 inches). Hold it with the outer (zesty) side facing down over the glass and give it a firm quick squeeze to express the oils across the drink. Optionally rub the peel around the rim to transfer additional aroma.

Garnish

Drop the expressed orange peel into the glass. If desired, add a Luxardo or maraschino cherry on a pick or drop it in the drink.

Final Presentation

Serve immediately. Suggest sipping slowly to enjoy the balance of Maker's Mark, sugar, and bitters; the large ice melts slowly, keeping dilution controlled.

Rinse the bar spoon and jigger under warm water. Wipe the peeler and knife clean. If you used a mixing glass, empty and wash it promptly.