This is the Old Fashioned at its most basic — and honestly, at its best. Bourbon, sugar, bitters, and an orange peel. No syrups, no extra flavors, no tricks. Just a solid drink that tastes exactly the way an Old Fashioned should.
If you’ve been enjoying all the cozy twists lately, this one brings things back to center. It’s clean, balanced, and easy to make, even if you don’t mix drinks very ofte
Why This Version Matters
The orange peel isn’t just a garnish here — it’s the point. The oils from the peel brighten the drink and balance the richness of the bourbon without adding sweetness. When people say an Old Fashioned tastes “right,” this is usually what they mean.
This is also the version most bartenders default to. It’s reliable, familiar, and works with almost any decent bottle of bourbon. If you’re not sure what to use, anything from our list of the best bourbons for cocktails will do the job.
Orange Peel Old Fashioned
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- ¼ oz sugar syrup or 1 sugar cube
- 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
- orange peel
- ice cube
Instructions
- If using a sugar cube, place it in a rocks glass and soak it with bitters. Add a small splash of water and muddle until dissolved.(If using simple syrup, skip this step.)
- Add the bourbon and fill the glass with ice.
- Stir until cold and slightly diluted.
- Twist the orange peel over the glass to release the oils, then drop it in.
Nutrition
When to Drink It
This is an anytime Old Fashioned. Before dinner, after dinner, or when someone says they want “a whiskey drink” and doesn’t want to think too hard about it.
It also works well when you’re serving people with different tastes. There’s nothing polarizing here — just a well-made classic.
If you’re building out a menu, this fits naturally alongside other bourbon cocktail recipes or easy holiday whiskey cocktails that don’t need explanation.
Why Lush Life Likes It
Because it doesn’t hide behind extra flavors. When this drink is good, it’s because the bourbon is good and the balance is right. Simple as that.
FAQ
Can I use orange bitters instead of an orange peel?
You can, but it’s not the same. The peel adds aroma that bitters can’t fully replace. If you have an orange, use it.
Is this sweet?
No. It’s lightly sweet at most. If you want it drier, use less sugar or syrup.
Does this work with rye whiskey?
Yes. Rye makes it spicier and drier, but still very good.
Looking for more straightforward whiskey drinks? You’ll find plenty in our collection of bourbon cocktail recipes, from classics to easy twists.