Sherry Old Fashioned

The Old Fashioned is a timeless cocktail, celebrated for its simplicity and elegance. Traditionally made with whisky, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus, it’s a drink that exudes sophistication. But for those looking to put a unique spin on this classic, the sherry old fashioned offers a delightful alternative.

By substituting whisky with sherry, this cocktail takes on a new character - one that is lighter, more nuanced, and richly complex. Perfect for intimate gatherings or as a pre-dinner aperitif, the Sherry Old Fashioned is a drink that deserves a place in your cocktail repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 60ml Amontillado sherry or oloroso sherry
• 1 Sugar cube or 1 teaspoon simple syrup
• 2-3 Dashes of Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Optional: A splash of bourbon for added depth

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Glass: Start by placing the sugar cube in an old fashioned glass. If you’re using simple syrup, pour it directly into the glass. Add the bitters and a small splash of water to help dissolve the sugar. Muddle the sugar and bitters until the sugar is fully dissolved
2. Add the sherry: Pour the sherry into the glass, stirring gently to combine it with the sugar and bitters. If you prefer a slightly stronger drink, you can add a small splash of bourbon at this stage, which will complement the sherry’s complex flavours
3. Add Ice: Add a large ice cube or a handful of smaller ice cubes to the glass. Stir the cocktail for about 20-30 seconds to chill the drink and dilute it slightly, allowing the flavours to meld together
4. Garnish: Express the oils from a piece of orange peel by holding it over the glass and giving it a quick twist. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass, then drop it into the drink as a garnish. This adds a bright, citrusy note that complements the rich, nutty flavours of the sherry
5. Serve: Your sherry old fashioned is now ready to enjoy. Serve it as a sophisticated prelude to dinner, or sip it slowly as a relaxing evening drink

Amontillado sherry, with its dry, slightly salty profile, adds a refined elegance to the cocktail, while oloroso, which is richer and more full-bodied, lends a warm, almost caramel-like depth. Both styles maintain the essence of the Old Fashioned while offering a lighter, yet equally satisfying, drinking experience.

This sherry cocktails pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

• Charcuterie and cheese: The nutty flavours of the sherry complement aged cheeses, cured meats, and toasted nuts. Serve the cocktail alongside a charcuterie board for a sophisticated snack
• Tapas: Embrace the Spanish roots of sherry by pairing the cocktail with tapas. olives, jamon iberico, and manchego cheese are excellent accompaniments
• Dark chocolate: For a sweet treat, pair with a piece of high-quality dark chocolate. The rich, bitter notes of the chocolate enhance the complexity of the cocktail