The Black & Gold Old Fashioned

Bourbon Intermediate 5 mins

Ingredients

  • 2 oz High-Rye Bourbon
  • 1/4 oz Demerara Syrup
  • 2 dashes Black Walnut Bitters
  • 1 dash Orange Bitters
  • Large clear ice cube
  • Wide orange twist (for garnish)

This sophisticated riff on the classic Old Fashioned uses dark, earthy walnut bitters to complement the caramel notes of a high-rye bourbon. It is the signature drink for the whiskey.glass aesthetic.

Instructions

  1. Chill the Glass: Place a rocks glass in the freezer for 5 minutes or fill with ice water while you prepare the drink.
  2. Combine: In a mixing glass, combine the bourbon, demerara syrup, and both types of bitters.
  3. Stir: Add plenty of ice to the mixing glass and stir gently with a long bar spoon for about 30 seconds. This chills the drink and achieves the perfect dilution.
  4. Strain: Empty your chilled rocks glass. Place one large clear ice cube inside and strain the mixture over the ice.
  5. Garnish: Express the oils of an orange twist over the surface of the drink, rub the rim of the glass with the peel, and drop it in.

Why it Works

The high-rye content provides a spicy backbone that prevents the demerara sugar from feeling overly cloying, while the walnut bitters add a savory depth that lingers on the finish.