Franklin Old Fashioned Recipe

Combine 2 parts demerara sugar and 1 part water in a small saucepan (for example 1 cup sugar + 1/2 cup water).

Warm gently over medium-low heat, stirring constantly until the sugar fully dissolves and the mixture is clear. Do not boil vigorously.

Remove from heat and let cool to room temperature. Transfer to a clean bottle or jar and refrigerate. Keeps at least 2–3 weeks.

Prepare glass and ice

Select a rocks glass. Place a single large, clear ice cube in the glass. If using a standard ice cube, use two large cubes.

Build cocktail

Pour 2 oz Pappy Van Winkle bourbon into a mixing glass or directly into the rocks glass over the ice.

Add 0.5 oz demerara simple syrup, 3 dashes Angostura bitters and 1 dash orange bitters to the bourbon.

If assembled in a mixing glass: stir gently for 20–30 seconds with a bar spoon until the drink is well chilled and slightly diluted (about 15–20% dilution). If built directly in the rocks glass: stir thoroughly for 15–20 seconds to combine and chill.

Garnish & finish

Express the orange peel over the drink by holding the peel (outer skin down) above the glass and giving a quick squeeze to release oils, then rub the peel around the rim and drop it into the glass. Optionally add a Luxardo or brandied cherry on a pick alongside the orange peel.

Serve immediately and enjoy slowly to appreciate the bourbon's complexity.