Looking for a new cocktail to try out this weekend? Want to wind down with a fresh new drink? We’ve got you covered. Here’s what you should drink this weekend.
It’s always Old Fashioned season. The boozy, refined classic cocktail is one of my favorite drinks, regardless of the weather. But, if you do want to tailor your beverage to the season, the Old Fashioned is infinitely riffable. The Brandy Old Fashioned has become a certified cocktail in its own right so today’s recipe adds a further twist to the original.
In the early- to mid-1900s, Wisconsin bartenders began making their Old Fashioneds with Brandy. So, the Wisconsin Old Fashioned became its own designation. This weekend, we’re recommending folks make the Call Me Old Fashioned which adds a bit of Amaro Montenegro to the Brandy Old Fashioned variation. The result is a cocktail with a hefty spice characteristic that makes it perfect for the colder weather of winter.
Call Me Old Fashioned Ingredients
Brandy – While the classic Old Fashioned calls for whiskey, we’ll be using brandy in this recipe. This particular drink, as created by Kaitlin Fischer of Madison, Wisconsin’s The Harvey House, calls for cognac in particular. Hennessy V.S Cognac is a relatively accessible option or maybe you want to go for some Rémy Martin V.S.O.P. Ultimately it’s your call.
Amaro – The Call Me Old Fashioned recipe uses Amaro Montenegro, one of my favorite readily available amari, but you can use whichever bitter Italian spirit you have on hand. I’d particularly recommend any with a strong wintry flavor profile. Braulio or Averna could be fun options here.
Simple Syrup – As per usual, I’d recommend making your own simple syrup. And this time, you’ll want to make demerara which requires equal parts demerara sugar and water. It’ll result in a much richer sweetness for your cocktail.
Bitters – And finally you’ll want to use a combination of Angostura bitters and orange bitters. You can get a set of them here.
Call Me Old Fashioned Recipe
- Combine 2 ounces of brandy, .5 ounces of amaro, .25 ounces of simple syrup, and a dash each of orange and Angostura bitters in a mixing glass.
- Add ice and stir until well-chilled, about 20 seconds.
- Strain into ice-filled rocks glass.
- Garnish with an orange peel and amaro-soaked cherry.
- Enjoy!
