Bob's Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

The Old Fashioned is one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the early 19th century. It was originally referred to as a 'whiskey cocktail' and was enjoyed by those who appreciated a strong, slow-sipping drink. The 'Bob's Old Fashioned' is a personal twist on this classic, introduced by a regular patron named Bob at our bar. He preferred his Old Fashioned with a hint of maple syrup, which added a unique sweetness that perfectly balanced the strong whiskey.

• Ideal for whiskey lovers
• Perfect for slow sipping
• Great for those who appreciate a balance of sweet and strong flavors

Bob's Old Fashioned is a harmonious blend of strong, sweet, and slightly bitter flavors. The whiskey provides a robust, smoky base, while the maple syrup adds a rich, sweet undertone. The bitters give it a subtle, complex edge, making it a well-rounded, satisfying cocktail.

• The Old Fashioned is often considered the 'original' cocktail.
• The use of maple syrup in Bob's Old Fashioned gives it a unique, Canadian twist.
• Despite its simplicity, the Old Fashioned remains one of the most popular cocktails worldwide.

1. Add the maple syrup, bitters, and a splash of water to a lowball glass.
2. Stir until the syrup is dissolved.
3. Add the whiskey and stir again.
4. Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir until chilled.
5. Garnish with a twist of orange peel.

Appetizers

• Charcuterie Boards: The rich flavors of cured meats and various cheeses complement the blend of whiskey and sweetness in Bob's Old Fashioned.
• Smoked Salmon: The smoky flavor ties in nicely with the oak notes of the whiskey.
• Nuts: Almonds, pecans, or walnuts are great for munching alongside this hearty drink.

Main Courses

• Grilled Steak: A classic pairing, the savory umami flavors of the meat bring out the best in the whiskey.
• Barbecue Pork: The maple syrup in the cocktail can harmonize with the sweet and smoky flavors of the barbecue.
• Roasted Vegetables: Pair with earthy vegetables like beets or sweet potatoes for a wholesome balance.

Desserts

• Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of the chocolate pairs well with the sweet and spicy notes of the cocktail.
• Bread Pudding: A dessert with its own rich history, much like the Old Fashioned, makes for a nostalgic end to a meal.
• Apple Pie: The cinnamon and apple flavors can be a delightful match to the whiskey's warmth.

You can substitute the whiskey with bourbon or rye.

• If you don't have maple syrup, you can use simple syrup or honey instead.

Smoked Old Fashioned

• Ingredients: 2oz Whiskey, 1tsp Maple Syrup, 3 dashes Angostura Bitters, Orange Peel, Smoke
• Recipe: Follow Bob's Old Fashioned recipe, but before adding the whiskey, infuse the glass with smoke from a burnt wood chip, covering it for a minute, then stir in the whiskey. Change: The drink takes on a campfire spirit, marrying the whiskey's depth with the primal scent of the wild.

Spiced Maple Old Fashioned

• Ingredients: 2oz Rye Whiskey, 1tsp Spiced Maple Syrup, 3 dashes Angostura Bitters, Cinnamon Stick, Orange Peel
• Recipe: Use spiced maple syrup instead of plain, and garnish with both an orange peel and a cinnamon stick. Change: This brings autumn directly into your glass, the spiced syrup weaving tales of harvest festivals with every sip.

Apple Cider Old Fashioned

• Ingredients: 1.5oz Whiskey, 0.5oz Apple Cider, 1tsp Maple Syrup, 3 dashes Angostura Bitters, Apple Slice, Orange Peel
• Recipe: Reduce whiskey to 1.5oz and add 0.5oz of apple cider. Stir and garnish with an apple slice along with the orange peel. Change: The apple cider curtsies gracefully with the whiskey, adding a fresh orchard twist to the classic.