1. Prepare Your Glass

Start by choosing the right vessel: a sturdy lowball or rocks glass is traditional. Place it in the freezer for a few minutes beforehand if you prefer your Old Fashioned extra cold.

2. Muddle the Sugar and Bitters

Add 1 tsp of dark brown sugar to the bottom of the glass, followed by 2–3 dashes of Angostura bitters, 1 dash of orange bitters, and 1 tsp of water. Use a cocktail muddler or the back of a spoon to stir and break down the sugar. Stir gently but thoroughly until most of the sugar has dissolved and you’re left with a syrupy base.

If the brown sugar doesn’t fully dissolve, don’t worry — it will continue to break down as the drink sits and the ice dilutes the spirit slightly.

3. Add the Whiskey

Pour 2 oz of bourbon or rye whiskey over the mixture. Stir slowly for about 20–30 seconds to combine and slightly chill the drink.

4. Add Ice

Add a large ice cube or ice sphere to the glass. This not only chills the drink efficiently but also melts more slowly, keeping the drink smooth and balanced without becoming overly diluted.

5. Garnish with Flair

Take an orange peel and express the oils by holding it over the glass and giving it a firm twist. For extra wow factor, use a lighter to flame the peel before expressing it — this adds a subtle caramelized aroma to the drink. Drop it into the glass or run it along the rim. Top with a Luxardo cherry for an added note of rich fruit and visual charm.

6. Serve & Sip

Give it one last gentle stir and enjoy your Brown Sugar Old Fashioned slowly, letting the flavors evolve as the ice melts.