The Manhattan has taken me through many moments, and many evenings. I love the rich bourbon and bitter flavor that lingers in my mouth, making each sip a worthwhile investment from the elegant cocktail. However to add to my repertoire for imbibing, I perused an old bar tenders manual and came across the Old Fashioned. I see that there are immense variations in which you can create this cocktail, sugar cubes being muddled with fruit and topped with bright red cherries. Not for me. To muddle orange slices in a syrupy concoction that needs a vulgar maraschino garnish doesn't quite garner a sophisticated sipping experience. I prefer to streamline my recipe that is based on what classic bar tenders prepare. This isn't the old fashion Old Fashioned, its sharp and classic, just like your suit should be. I begin with adding a half teaspoon of natural sugar to a rocks glass. The juice from a wedge of an organic lemon. Several bold dashes of bitters (I know not everyone is a fan of bitters, but I happen to love their presence in a drink) and I add one shot of bourbon. I begin to stir and add ice, layering another shot of bourbon, more ice and yes, why not, one more shot of bourbon. I stir my cocktail until the glass is frosted. I add a Bing cherry then sit in a wing chair, and sip my day away.
