Classic Cocktail: The Old-Fashioned

The most elusive ingredient was once the easiest to find: branch water (essentially stream water). Because bourbon distilleries were traditionally located on streams, the same water used to make the bourbon was also used to mix the drinks. “Branch water is a locavore’s dream,” Korson says. “But since the old-fashioned was invented here, I figure our Louisville water is good enough.”

The 610 Magnolia 
Old-Fashioned

1 large and uneven slice of lemon peel
1 rough-cut brown 
    sugar cube
2 dashes Angostura bitters
1 dash Regan’s Orange 
Bitters No. 6
No more than 1 oz. branch water (or bottled water)
2 large ice cubes
2 oz. Van Winkle Special Reserve 12-year bourbon
Small triangle of orange slice for garnish

Add the lemon peel, sugar cube, and both bitters into the bottom of an old-fashioned glass. Using a wooden muddler, begin to muddle the ingredients firmly but not violently in the bottom of the glass, working the muddler in a circle. The tapered shape of the glass allows you to perform this task with ease.

Add the water, and continue to muddle for a bit longer. Add the ice and then the bourbon. Stir with a spoon. Float the thinly sliced orange on top of the drink (not wedged onto the side of the glass), and serve.