Bourbon recipes: Real Old Fashioned, Mint Julep

REAL OLD FASHIONED

Serves 1.

Note: Here is a simple, honest Old Fashioned, dating back to the 1880s, just the spirit with sugar and bitters, no orange, cherry or muddling. The theory is that muddling became popular during Prohibition to cover up poor-quality liquor. To make simple syrup: Put equal parts sugar and water into a saucepan set over low heat and simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Cool and store in a covered container.

• 1/2 oz. (1 tbsp.) simple syrup (see Note)

• 2 oz. (1/4 c.) bourbon or rye

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• 1 thin slice of orange peel

Measure the simple syrup into the bottom of an old-fashioned or low-ball glass. Add the bourbon or rye and bitters. Add just enough ice to cover the liquid.

Twist the orange peel over the glass, then stir the drink with the peel and garnish with the peel or discard.

MINT JULEP

Serves 1.

Note: This drink is a straightforward cocktail of bourbon, simple syrup and mint over crushed ice; the trick is to get the balance just right. For more mint flavor, muddle 2 mint leaves with the simple syrup in the cup before adding the remaining ingredients. To make simple syrup: Put equal parts sugar and water into a saucepan set over low heat and simmer until the sugar is dissolved. Cool and store in a covered container.

• 2 oz. (1/4 c.) bourbon (use a good-quality one)

• Fresh mint sprig (see Note)

Directions