Herbal Citrus Old Fashioned

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 1
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Welcome to the world of cocktails with a twist! The Herbal Citrus Old Fashioned is a refreshing take on the classic, blending herbal notes with citrus for a vibrant, seasonal sip.

Ingredients for Herbal Citrus Old Fashioned

Bourbon forms the backbone of this cocktail, providing warmth and depth. Choose a good quality bourbon you enjoy sipping on its own. Herbal liqueur like Chartreuse adds complexity with its blend of botanicals. It’s what sets this drink apart from the usual Old Fashioned. Orange bitters and a sugar cube bring in the subtle sweetness and citrusy notes. A dash of Angostura bitters rounds out the flavors, adding a touch of spice and bitterness. Finally, a large ice cube chills your drink without diluting it too quickly, while an orange slice and fresh thyme offer aromatic garnishes that elevate each sip.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra burst of flavor, gently slap the thyme sprig between your palms before using it as a garnish to release its oils.
  • Chill your glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making the cocktail to keep it colder for longer.
  • If you don’t have a muddler, the back of a spoon works in a pinch to dissolve the sugar cube.

Serving Suggestions

This Herbal Citrus Old Fashioned pairs wonderfully with a charcuterie board featuring aged cheeses, cured meats, and fresh fruits. The complex flavors of the cocktail complement the rich, savory, and sweet elements of the board, making it an ideal choice for a sophisticated gathering or a relaxed evening at home.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different herbal liqueur?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with other herbal liqueurs like Strega or a high-quality amaro for a unique twist.
What if I don't have orange bitters?
You can substitute with a little extra Angostura bitters and a splash of orange juice for a similar effect.
Can I make this drink in advance?
It’s best made fresh, but you can prepare the sugar and bitters mixture ahead of time. Just add the bourbon and liqueur when ready to serve.

Herbal Citrus Old Fashioned Recipe Walkthrough

Start by placing the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass. This little cube is going to be the sweet foundation of your cocktail. Next, add two dashes of orange bitters and a dash of Angostura bitters directly onto the sugar cube. This combination will dissolve the sugar and infuse it with a rich, aromatic flavor.

Use a muddler to gently crush the sugar cube with the bitters until it’s fully dissolved. You’re aiming for a smooth, slightly syrupy mixture at the bottom of your glass. Now, pour in the bourbon and herbal liqueur. Stir gently to combine, merging the sweet, herbal, and bitter elements into a harmonious whole.

Drop in a large ice cube—the bigger, the better, as it will chill your drink efficiently without watering it down too quickly. Squeeze the juice from an orange slice over the drink, letting a few drops fall into the mixture, then toss the slice in. This adds a bright, fresh citrus aroma and taste. Finish it off with a sprig of fresh thyme for a fragrant, herbal garnish that looks as good as it smells.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Combines the classic appeal of an Old Fashioned with a fresh, herbal twist.
  • Perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and herbal flavors.
  • Quick and easy to make, but impressive enough for guests.
  • Uses simple, high-quality ingredients for a sophisticated taste.

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon
0.5 oz herbal liqueur (such as Chartreuse)
2 dashes orange bitters
1 sugar cube
1 orange slice
1 dash Angostura bitters
1 large ice cube
1 sprig fresh thyme for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Place the sugar cube in an Old Fashioned glass.
2. Add the orange bitters and a dash of Angostura bitters onto the sugar cube.
3. Muddle the sugar cube with the bitters until dissolved.
4. Add the bourbon and herbal liqueur to the glass.
5. Stir gently to combine.
6. Add a large ice cube, then squeeze the orange slice over the drink and drop it into the glass.
7. Garnish with a sprig of fresh thyme.

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