You can also use rye whiskey for this cocktail, if you’d like. [2] X Expert Source Kady RichardsonMixologist Expert Interview. 6 August 2020. Simple syrup is the best choice for cocktails because it’s already in liquid form, but for a traditional Old Fashioned, you would use 1 sugar cube instead of the simple syrup. Place the sugar cube in the bottom of the glass, then add 1 bar spoon of water and stir until the sugar is fully dissolved. [3] X Expert Source Kady RichardsonMixologist Expert Interview. 6 August 2020. You can also use maple syrup as a quick alternative.

If you don’t have Angostura bitters on hand, use orange bitters. [5] X Research source It’s important to stick to 2 or 3 dashes of bitters. Any more or less won’t create the classic flavor you’re going for.

Most people probably won’t be able to taste the difference between tap water and filtered water.

Don’t stir the ingredients for more than 30 seconds. You want to chill the liquid without melting the ice too much. [8] X Research source

A rocks glass is traditional for an Old-Fashioned, but you can use any glass you have on hand. You can skip the ice if you don’t want a chilled beverage and to prevent dilution.

Old-Fashioned cocktails were originally enjoyed before meals to stimulate the appetite. Give this a try, or simply enjoy the cocktail any time you like.

Old-Fashioned cocktails were originally enjoyed before meals to stimulate the appetite. Give this a try, or simply enjoy the cocktail any time you like.

Dark, aged rum is particularly delicious! You can also experiment with using different bitters or even liqueurs in your cocktail. [13] X Expert Source Kady RichardsonMixologist Expert Interview. 6 August 2020.

You can also experiment with honey, maple syrup, and molasses to achieve customized flavors. For a smoky take on an Old Fashioned, use mezcal or tequila as your spirit, and swap the sugar cube for a bit of agave. [14] X Expert Source Kady RichardsonMixologist Expert Interview. 6 August 2020.

For a fruity variation, drop an orange wheel or slice into the drink with the cherries. Try using a lemon or lime peel instead of the traditional orange peel for a slightly different flavor. For an herbal cocktail, infuse rosemary into simple syrup and use that in the drink, then garnish with a sprig of the rosemary, as well. [17] X Expert Source Kady RichardsonMixologist Expert Interview. 6 August 2020.