The Cranberry Old Fashioned is where classic bourbon warmth meets the tart brightness of fall fruit. It’s bold yet balanced, festive yet familiar; the kind of cocktail that feels equally at home at a cozy dinner party or by the fireplace on a crisp evening. The drink nods to the timeless sophistication of the Old Fashioned but introduces a seasonal twist that captures autumn’s spirit perfectly.
Why It’s a Go-To Fall Drink
Fall is all about warmth, depth, and a touch of tart nostalgia. The Cranberry Old Fashioned captures that essence beautifully:
– Cranberry’s Tartness: Brings a lively contrast to bourbon’s deep caramel and vanilla tones.
– Bitters & Citrus: The orange twist and aromatic bitters highlight the spices and fruit that define fall palettes.
– Simple & Elegant: With just a few ingredients, it’s easy to make yet it looks and tastes refined.
– Seasonal Versatility: Works just as well for a dinner aperitif, Thanksgiving toast, or a casual nightcap.
Ingredients (Serves 1)
– 2 oz (60 ml) Bourbon whiskey – Choose one with caramel or spice notes (like Woodford Reserve, Bulleit, or Maker’s Mark).
– ½ oz (15 ml) Cranberry syrup – Homemade or store-bought (recipe below).
– 2 dashes Angostura bitters (or orange bitters for a brighter note).
– 1 Orange twist – for garnish and aromatic oil.
– Ice – preferably a large cube.
Homemade Cranberry Syrup (optional but worth it)
Ingredients:
1 cup fresh or frozen cranberries
1 cup sugar
1 cup water
½ tsp orange zest (optional for extra citrus aroma)
Instructions
1. Combine cranberries, sugar, and water in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Bring to a simmer and stir until sugar dissolves.
3. Lightly crush cranberries as they soften to release flavor.
4. Let simmer for 10 minutes, then strain through a fine sieve.
5. Add orange zest while still warm for extra brightness.
6. Cool and store in a sealed bottle in the fridge (lasts up to 2 weeks).
How to Make the Cranberry Old Fashioned
1. Prepare Your Glass
In a rocks glass, add cranberry syrup and bitters.
2. Add Bourbon
Pour in 2 oz of bourbon and stir gently to mix the flavors.
3. Add Ice
Drop in one large ice cube (or a few smaller ones). Stir for 20–30 seconds. The goal is to chill and slightly dilute the drink for smoothness.
4. Express and Garnish
Take a strip of orange peel, twist it over the glass to release its oils, then drop it in. For extra aroma, run the peel around the rim before adding it to the drink.
5. Optional Finishing Touch
Garnish with a couple of cranberries on a cocktail pick or a sprig of rosemary for a rustic fall presentation.
Flavor Profile
The first sip is rich and slightly sweet, followed by a tart cranberry snap and the warmth of bourbon’s vanilla-spice finish. The bitters and orange peel elevate everything with just the right amount of aroma, making each sip feel layered and sophisticated.
Perfect For:
– Autumn dinner parties
– Thanksgiving gatherings
– Holiday toasts
– Cozy nights in with jazz or soul playing softly in the background