Your Weekend Cocktail: Black Walnut Old Fashioned

Photo: Karri Tait

Growing up in Wisconsin, I've always known the Old Fashioned. It was the first cocktail I was introduced to by my family and it continues to show its face at every family gathering.

While I am very particular about my classic old fashioned (whiskey, sour, and olives—not cherries), my husband and I both enjoy playing around with craft cocktails. And my husband especially loves a good bourbon.

There's nothing like a good whiskey drink to warm the soul. And let me tell you... our souls need warming in this neck of the woods for a good seven to eight months of the year. A spin on the classic Old Fashioned is just the cocktail to do it.

The heart and soul of the Old Fashioned are the bitters. We keep several in the house at all times:

• Angostura (your basic workhorse)
• Dr. Adam Elmegirab's Dandelion & Burdock bitters (for a floral flavor)
• ​ Hella's Citrus bitters (for a deep flavor with caramelized notes)
• Bittercube Trinity (a combo of citrus and floral with a hint of vanilla)
• Fee Brothers Black Walnut (my newest addition)

Given the cold snap, I decided to give the black walnut a whirl and see what I could come up with.

​Rich and velvety, with notes of caramel, orange, and roasted nuts, this spin on the classic cocktail is a great way to enjoy a chilly evening and a perfect drink to serve at Thanksgiving! 

Black Walnut Old Fashioned

2 ounces quality bourbon
1/2 teaspoon raw cane sugar
Several dashes of black walnut bitters (at least 5)
2 strips of an orange rind, pith removed
2 large ice cubes

Place the sugar and one orange peel in the bottom of a glass and add the bitters.

Muddle for about 1 minute, until the sugars start to dissolve. ​

Add bourbon and stir.

Let sit for 3-5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Finish with 2 large ice cubes and stir. Garnish with additional orange peel.

Cheers!

Photo: Karri Tait

Want to see more cocktail recipes? Belly up to the bar:

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Our Favorite Thanksgiving Cocktails »
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