Crafting the Perfect Old Fashioned with Full Moon

When it comes to classic cocktails, the Old Fashioned is in a league of its own. It’s the drink that defines a bar—or a bartender. Yes, as simple as this cocktail may seem, it’s surprisingly easy to mess up. But don’t worry, we’re here to make sure that doesn’t happen to you.

Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just dipping your toes into the world of craft cocktails, the Old Fashioned is a must-have in your repertoire. The secret? It’s not just about the whiskey (or bourbon). The magic lies in the perfect balance of ingredients that transform this drink from basic to breathtaking. First, we’ll show you how to craft a classic Old Fashioned, and then we’ll explore a few fun ways to mix things up with some Full Moon flair.

---

The Essential Ingredients for an Old Fashioned

An Old Fashioned is deceptively simple, but each ingredient plays a starring role. To craft the perfect one, you’ll need:

• Whiskey – Bourbon or rye, depending on your vibe.
• Sugar – Full Moon’s Old Fashioned Sugar Cubes make this step a breeze, but regular granulated sugar or your own simple syrup works too.
• Bitters – The unsung hero that adds depth and complexity.
• Garnish – A twist of orange peel and a cherry for that final flourish (Luxardo cherries are a game-changer!).

That’s it—simple, yet oh-so-satisfying.

---

Mixing the Perfect Old Fashioned: Step-by-Step

Here’s how to craft the perfect Old Fashioned:

1. Grab Your Glass: A sturdy rocks glass is your canvas.
2. Muddle the Magic: Place one sugar cube (or a teaspoon of sugar) in the glass. Add 2-3 dashes of bitters. Muddle until the sugar dissolves. (Pro tip: add a splash of hot water to speed up the process.)
3. Add the Whiskey: Pour in 2 ounces of your chosen bourbon or rye. Stir gently to mix.
4. Chill Out: Toss in a large ice cube or a few smaller ones. Stir for 20-30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.
5. Garnish & Serve: Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink, rub it around the rim, and drop it in. Add a cherry (or three!) for the finishing touch. Cheers!

---

3 Ways to Mix it Up

Once you’ve mastered the classic, it’s time to get creative! Here are three fun ways to elevate your Old Fashioned with Full Moon’s best-selling products:

1. Change the Flavor with Simple Syrup
   Swap the sugar for 1-3 teaspoons of simple syrup to completely transform the flavor profile. Our Cardamom Vanilla, Turkish Coffee, and Cranberry Spice syrups are fan favorites for this. Can’t decide? Try all three with our Sampler Box—it’s a fantastic gift for the Old Fashioned lover in your life (recipes included!).

2. Infuse Your Bourbon or Whiskey
   Take your cocktail to the next level with our Old Fashioned Cocktail Infusion Kit. It includes dehydrated oranges, apricots, and cherries to infuse your spirits with a touch of fruity sweetness and a hint of bitterness from the orange pith. Just add the kit to a mason jar, fill it with whiskey or bourbon, and let it infuse in the fridge for a few days. Strain, and voilà—a ready-to-pour masterpiece!

3. Bitters-Infused Sugar Cubes
   These sugar cubes are a game-changer. While you’ll still want to add a few dashes of bitters to your cocktail, these cubes make it easy to get started. Pair them with the Infusion Kit for the ultimate convenience. Add the cubes to the mason jar while the spirits are infusing, and after three days, you’ll have an Old Fashioned on draft—just pour, stir, and garnish with fresh orange peel and a cherry.

Oh, and don’t forget—we’ve got Mini Jars of Cherries to complete the experience!

---

Bourbon vs. Rye: What’s Your Whiskey Personality?

Choosing between bourbon and rye is like choosing between cozy and bold. Bourbon’s smooth, sweet profile pairs beautifully with our bitters-infused sugar cubes, creating a mellow, harmonious sip. Rye, on the other hand, brings a spicier, more robust kick, perfect for those who like a little edge in their drink. Either way, quality matters—this cocktail is spirit-forward, so choose the good stuff!

---

Bitters: The Flavor Balancer

Bitters might be the smallest ingredient, but they’re the secret to the Old Fashioned’s complexity. They tie together the sweetness of the sugar and the warmth of the whiskey, creating a perfectly balanced sip. Angostura bitters are the classic choice, but don’t be afraid to experiment with orange, cardamom, or even cherry bitters for a unique twist.

---

Garnish Like a Pro

Let’s not forget the garnish. The orange peel isn’t just for looks—it adds a burst of citrusy aroma that elevates every sip. And cherries? Always go for one or three (it’s a superstition thing, trust us). Grab a Mini Jar of Cherries to add the perfect finishing touch to your masterpiece.

Shop Full Moon's full Whiskey Lover's Collection here.