Rosemary Old FashionedCocktail recipe
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Cocktail Colin says:
The Rosemary Old Fashioned masterfully merges the warm, caramel notes of bourbon with the aromatic and slightly piney essence of muddled rosemary, creating a lush, sophisticated sip. Angostura bitters and sugar bring a familiar bittersweet balance to the drink, enhancing the herbal bitterness and sweetness for an elegant twist on a classic.
Method
How to make a Rosemary Old Fashioned
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- Muddle fresh rosemary with sugar and a few dashes of bitters in a glass until the rosemary releases its oils
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- Add ice cubes and pour in the bourbon
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- Stir well to combine and chill the drink
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- Fine strain into another glass with fresh ice to ensure no rosemary bits are left in the drink
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- Garnish with a rosemary sprig and a twist of lemon for an extra aromatic touch
Power tips
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Find out more- Use a rosemary-infused simple syrup instead of plain sugar to heighten the herbal flavor. To make the syrup, gently simmer equal parts sugar and water with a few rosemary sprigs until the sugar dissolves, then cool and strain.
- Smoke the glass with rosemary for a more profound aromatic experience. Light a rosemary sprig and allow its smoke to fill the glass before adding the cocktail, imparting a smoky, herbaceous essence.
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Your private tasting notes
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FAQ's
Can I use a different type of alcohol instead of bourbon in a Rosemary Old Fashioned?
While bourbon is the traditional choice for a Rosemary Old Fashioned, you can experiment with other types of whiskey or even rye to create a different flavor profile. Each substitution will impart its own unique character to the cocktail. For instance, using rye whiskey will add a spicier, more robust taste, while using a smooth Tennessee whiskey might give it a mellower feel. However, for the authentic rosemary-tinged, aromatic flavor that complements the bitters and sweetness from the sugar, sticking with a quality bourbon is recommended. Each variation brings its own balance of robustness and herbaceous notes, so feel free to adjust based on your taste preferences.
What is the best way to garnish a Rosemary Old Fashioned?
A signature garnish for the Rosemary Old Fashioned is a fresh sprig of rosemary, which not only adds visual appeal but also enhances the herbaceous fragrance of the drink. Lightly slap the rosemary sprig between your hands before adding it as a garnish to release its aromatic oils. This will help accentuate the rosemary notes throughout the cocktail, enticing the senses right when you lift the glass to take a sip. For an added touch, you could slightly char the rosemary with a lighter to give the cocktail a subtle smoky aroma, enhancing its overall complexity.
For what occasions is the Rosemary Old Fashioned particularly well-suited?
The Rosemary Old Fashioned is particularly well-suited for sophisticated gatherings, such as dinner parties or formal celebrations, where guests can appreciate the nuanced flavors of this refined cocktail. Its bold yet balanced taste makes it a versatile option for any occasion that calls for a toast or celebration. Additionally, the warm notes of bourbon combined with the earthy essence of rosemary make it a great choice for cozy autumn or winter get-togethers, where seasonal flavors enhance the atmosphere. It’s an excellent choice for a cocktail that stands out, yet offers the comfort of a classic drink with a modern twist.
How should I properly muddle the rosemary and sugar when making a Rosemary Old Fashioned?
When preparing a Rosemary Old Fashioned, muddling the rosemary with sugar is an essential step to fully release the herb's aromatic oils. Use a muddler to gently press the sprig of rosemary and sugar together at the bottom of your mixing glass. You should press just firmly enough to crush the leaves and release their oils but avoid pulverizing the rosemary so much that it breaks into tiny, unsightly pieces. By doing this, you're enhancing the drink's aroma and flavor without leaving small bits of rosemary in the cocktail. This technique ensures the drink retains a smooth finish while capturing the delightful herbal notes the rosemary contributes.
How does the alcohol content of a Rosemary Old Fashioned compare to other cocktails?
The Rosemary Old Fashioned has an alcohol content of approximately 32%, which is relatively high compared to many contemporary cocktails. Traditional cocktails, such as the classic Old Fashioned or a Manhattan, also tend to have high alcohol content, typically between 30-35%, as they are primarily composed of spirits. This provides a robust flavor profile for cocktail enthusiasts who appreciate a strong, spirit-forward drink. In contrast, many modern cocktails incorporate mixers like juices or sodas, reducing the overall alcohol percentage to around 15-20%. For those who enjoy a potent cocktail with a refined, aromatic twist, the Rosemary Old Fashioned is an exemplary choice.
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