Best Recipes and Tips for Old Fashioned Cocktail Syrup?

[vakov]

Hi everyone,

I'm trying to perfect my Old Fashioned at home and I keep hearing that the syrup makes all the difference. I usually just use simple syrup, but I've seen recipes calling for rich simple syrup, demerara, or even spiced versions.

I'm curious: what's your favorite type of syrup for an Old Fashioned, and do you have any tips for making it at home? Are there specific techniques or ingredients that really elevate the drink?

I'd love to hear both classic and creative approaches from fellow cocktail enthusiasts!

Thanks!

[biwoteh]

I'd go with a rich simple syrup (2:1 sugar to water) for a classic cocktail because it's sweeter without watering down the drink. Demerara syrup is my favorite for a deeper, caramel-y flavor.

For a little twist, I sometimes add orange peel or a pinch of cinnamon while making the syrup, which really enhances an Old Fashioned.

A key tip is to stir the cocktail over ice until it's nicely chilled; this balances the sweetness and brings out the whiskey's flavor. Fresh citrus zest and quality bitters also make a big difference. Small tweaks in syrup can completely elevate your drink.