Ingredients

• 2 ounces bourbon
• 1 sugar cube (or 1/2 ounce simple syrup)
• 2-3 dashes aromatic bitters (such as Angostura)
• Ice
• Orange or lemon peel, and a maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Place the sugar cube at the bottom of an old-fashioned glass (also known as a rocks glass).
2. Add 2-3 dashes of aromatic bitters onto the sugar cube. If you're using simple syrup instead of a sugar cube, you can skip this step.
3. Add a splash of water to the glass (about a teaspoon) to help dissolve the sugar. Use a muddler or the back of a spoon to gently muddle and dissolve the sugar. If you're using simple syrup, you can add it directly.
4. Fill the glass with ice cubes.
5. Pour the whiskey over the ice.
6. Stir the drink gently for about 20-30 seconds to chill and dilute it slightly. Use a cocktail stirring rod or a long spoon for this.
7. Optionally, garnish the Old Fashioned with a twist of orange or lemon peel. Express the citrus oils over the drink by holding the peel over the glass, giving it a slight twist to release the oils, and then rub it along the rim of the glass. Add a maraschino cherry as a final touch.
8. Serve and enjoy your classic Old Fashioned cocktail.

The key to a great Old Fashioned is balance and simplicity, allowing the quality of the whiskey to shine through. Feel free to adjust the sugar and bitters to suit your taste preferences.