Improved Whiskey Cocktail
The Improved Whiskey Cocktail is a classic twist on the traditional Old Fashioned, adding a dash of maraschino liqueur and a hint of absinthe to enhance the complexity of the drink. It's a perfect choice for whiskey connoisseurs looking for a slightly more elaborate sipper.
Equipment
- Mixing glass
- Muddler
- Bar spoon
- Jigger
- Strainer
- Old Fashioned glass
Ingredients
- 2 oz rye whiskey
- 1 cube sugar about 4 grams or 1 teaspoon sugar
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash maraschino liqueur 1/4 oz or 7.5 ml
- 1 dash absinthe 1/4 oz or 7.5 ml
- 1 piece lemon peel for garnish
- Ice cubes
Instructions
- Place the sugar cube in a mixing glass.
- Saturate the sugar cube with the Angostura bitters.
- Muddle the sugar cube until it's dissolved.
- Add the rye whiskey, maraschino liqueur, and absinthe to the mixing glass.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes and stir until well chilled, about 30 seconds.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled Old Fashioned glass filled with a large ice cube.
- Express the lemon peel over the drink by twisting it to release the oils, and then drop it into the glass as garnish.
Notes
The Improved Whiskey Cocktail can also be made with bourbon instead of rye whiskey, depending on personal preference. The key to this drink is to balance the sweetness and the strength of the spirit with the bitters and the herbal notes of the maraschino and absinthe.