Fall brings a lot of firsts for people; the first time seeing nature’s new colors, the first time feeling the fall temperatures – even though spring is similar, there is something different about the feeling of fall – and most importantly the new flavor profile that comes with it. Temperatures drop and palates are suddenly changing and people are hankering for food and drinks consisting of heavier, more heartwarming flavors as well as dark liquors and hot cocktails. From light and summery to more robust and instead of going for a gin cocktail, libation lovers can stay seasonal and make Bandit’s (841 W. Randolph Street) version of an Old Fashioned named “Thunderbird.”
The “Thunderbird’s” fall-focused take on the classic Old Fashioned consists of a perfect balance of potent aromas combined with a fresh orange addition. The drink highlights the complementary caramel and vanilla flavors of Old Forrester 100 Proof Kentucky Bourbon, yet is different from a classic Old Fashioned recipe with its walnut liqueur, bringing out the cocktail’s hearty oak flavor profile. The typical parts of Angostura bitters and Demerara syrup are married with Regan’s Orange bitters for a satisfying and tangy twist to the classic and fall-appropriate cocktail.
To make the Thunderbird Cocktail:
Ingredients
- 2 ¼ oz. Old Forrester 100 Proof Bourbon
- ¼ oz. Demerara Syrup
- 1/8 oz. Walnut Liqueur
- 2 Dashes Angostura Bitters
- 2 Dashes Regan’s Orange Bitters
Method
- 1) Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass
- 2) Add ice and stir
- 3) Strain into a rocks glass over a large rock
- 4) Garnish with an orange swath and two Luxardo Cherries
