Riedel Drink Specific Glassware Rocks Glass,9.98 oz (Engraved)
Buy Now →The Blood Orange Old Fashioned is a sultry, bittersweet twist on the classic, featuring rich bourbon, fresh blood orange juice, and a touch of sweetness from simple syrup. With the warm depth of Angostura bitters and a hint of citrus, this cocktail is smooth, aromatic, and perfect for slow sipping. Whether you’re a bourbon lover or just looking to upgrade your cocktail game, this drink is sophisticated, easy to make, and full of bold flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon – A bold, smooth base.
- ½ oz Blood Orange Juice – Adds a deep, citrusy sweetness.
- ¼ oz Simple Syrup – Lightly balances the bitterness.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters – Adds warmth, spice, and depth.
- Ice Cubes – Chills and dilutes slightly for a smooth sip.
Garnish (Optional, but Recommended!)
- Blood Orange Slice – Enhances the visual appeal and citrus aroma.
- Orange Peel Twist – Expressed over the drink for extra fragrance.
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Glass
- In an old-fashioned glass, add:
½ oz blood orange juice
¼ oz simple syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
2️⃣ Mix the Drink
- Pour in 2 oz bourbon.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir gently for 20-30 seconds to chill and blend the flavors.
3️⃣ Garnish & Serve
- Garnish with a blood orange slice and a twist of orange peel.
- (Optional) Express the orange peel over the glass by gently squeezing it to release oils, then rub it around the rim.
4️⃣ Sip & Enjoy!
- Enjoy this bold, citrusy, and bittersweet take on the classic Old Fashioned!
Helpful Tips
Use a Large Ice Cube – A single large ice cube melts slower, keeping the drink cold without excessive dilution.
Want It Stronger? – Reduce the blood orange juice to ¼ oz for a boozier version.
Experiment with Bitters – Try chocolate bitters or orange bitters for a unique depth of flavor.
Try Rye Whiskey Instead of Bourbon – Adds a spicier, drier edge to the cocktail.
Conservation and Storage
- Best Served Fresh – The Blood Orange Old Fashioned is meant to be enjoyed immediately after stirring.
- Pre-Mix & Store (Up to 24 Hours) – Combine bourbon, blood orange juice, simple syrup, and bitters in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Stir with ice before serving.
- Do Not Freeze – Freezing alters the texture and affects the fresh citrus flavors.
Substitutions and Variations
- No Blood Orange Juice? – Use fresh orange juice with a splash of pomegranate juice for a similar tart-sweet balance.
- Prefer a Lighter Version? – Top with a splash of club soda for a refreshing variation.
- Want a Spicier Twist? – Add a pinch of cinnamon or a star anise pod while stirring.
- Make It a Maple Old Fashioned – Swap simple syrup for maple syrup for a deeper, richer sweetness.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this cocktail ahead of time?
Yes! Pre-mix the bourbon, blood orange juice, simple syrup, and bitters, refrigerate for up to 24 hours, and stir with ice before serving.
What type of bourbon works best?
Go for a high-quality bourbon like Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, or Four Roses for a smooth, flavorful cocktail.
Can I use regular oranges instead of blood oranges?
Yes! Regular oranges work well, but blood oranges add a unique deep citrus flavor and stunning color.
How do I get a smoky effect?
Lightly torch the orange peel before expressing it over the drink to release smoky citrus oils.
Conclusion: A Sultry, Citrusy Bourbon Classic!
The Blood Orange Old Fashioned is bold, bittersweet, and citrusy, making it a perfect twist on the classic whiskey cocktail. Whether you’re sipping it by the fire, at a dinner party, or just unwinding after a long day, this elegant and flavorful drink is sure to impress!
Love whiskey cocktails? Try these next!
Classic Old Fashioned – The timeless bourbon cocktail.
Smoked Maple Old Fashioned – A rich, smoky take with maple syrup.
Bourbon Smash – A fresh, minty whiskey delight.
Tried this recipe? Share your photos on Pinterest or tag me on Instagram! Cheers!
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Blood Orange Old Fashioned – A Bold & Citrusy Twist!
- Total Time: 45 minute
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
The Blood Orange Old Fashioned is a sultry, bittersweet twist on the classic, featuring rich bourbon, fresh blood orange juice, and a touch of sweetness from simple syrup. With the warm depth of Angostura bitters and a hint of citrus, this cocktail is smooth, aromatic, and perfect for slow sipping. Whether you’re a bourbon lover or just looking to upgrade your cocktail game, this drink is sophisticated, easy to make, and full of bold flavors!
Ingredients
- 2 oz Bourbon 🥃 – A bold, smooth base.
- ½ oz Blood Orange Juice 🍊 – Adds a deep, citrusy sweetness.
- ¼ oz Simple Syrup 🍯 – Lightly balances the bitterness.
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters 🧡 – Adds warmth, spice, and depth.
- Ice Cubes ❄️ – Chills and dilutes slightly for a smooth sip.
🍊 Garnish (Optional, but Recommended!)
- Blood Orange Slice 🍊 – Enhances the visual appeal and citrus aroma.
- Orange Peel Twist 🍊 – Expressed over the drink for extra fragrance.
Instructions
1️⃣ Prepare the Glass 🍹
- In an old-fashioned glass, add:
✅ ½ oz blood orange juice
✅ ¼ oz simple syrup
✅ 2 dashes Angostura bitters
2️⃣ Mix the Drink 🥃
- Pour in 2 oz bourbon.
- Fill the glass with ice cubes and stir gently for 20-30 seconds to chill and blend the flavors.
3️⃣ Garnish & Serve 🍊
- Garnish with a blood orange slice and a twist of orange peel.
- (Optional) Express the orange peel over the glass by gently squeezing it to release oils, then rub it around the rim.
4️⃣ Sip & Enjoy! 🎉
- Enjoy this bold, citrusy, and bittersweet take on the classic Old Fashioned!
Notes
✔ Use a High-Quality Bourbon 🥃 – A good bourbon with vanilla, caramel, and spice notes enhances the drink’s depth.
✔ Chill the Glass for Extra Smoothness ❄️ – Place the old-fashioned glass in the freezer for 5 minutes before serving.
✔ Adjust the Sweetness – Prefer it sweeter? Add an extra ¼ oz of simple syrup. Want it drier? Reduce or omit the syrup.
✔ Make It Smoky! 🔥 – Lightly char the orange peel before expressing it over the drink for a smoky aroma.
✔ Try a Luxardo Cherry Garnish 🍒 – Adds a touch of sweet, dark fruit complexity.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-30 seconds
- Category: Cocktails
- Method: Stirred
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Blood Orange Old Fashioned, Bourbon Citrus Cocktail, Whiskey Old Fashioned Twist, Blood Orange Whiskey Drink