Go Back

Tequila Old Fashioned

A bold, Mexican-inspired twist on the classic old fashioned cocktail. This spirit-forward drink showcases quality reposado tequila paired with agave nectar and Angostura bitters, creating a sophisticated cocktail that's perfect for slow sipping.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 2 minutes
Total Time 2 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail
Course: Drinks and Beverages
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 165
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 2 ounces reposado tequila
  • 1/2 ounce agave nectar about 1 tablespoon
  • 2 to 3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 1 large orange peel about 2 inches long
  • 1 large ice cube or 4 to 5 regular ice cubes
  • 1/4 ounce water optional, for dilution

Equipment

  • Mixing glass or cocktail stirring glass
  • Bar spoon or long-handled mixing spoon
  • Jigger for measuring spirits
  • Small paring knife for orange peel
  • Old fashioned glass or rocks glass (10 to 12 ounces)
  • Cocktail strainer (optional but recommended)

Method
 

  1. Place your rocks glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes before mixing to chill it properly.
  2. Fill a mixing glass halfway with ice.
  3. Measure and pour 2 ounces of reposado tequila into the mixing glass with ice.
  4. Pour 1/2 ounce of agave nectar into the mixing glass.
  5. Add 2 to 3 dashes of Angostura bitters to the mixing glass.
  6. Stir the mixture with a bar spoon for 10 to 15 seconds using a smooth, controlled motion.
  7. Using a cocktail strainer, pour the stirred mixture from the mixing glass into the chilled rocks glass, leaving the ice behind in the mixing glass.
  8. Place 1 large ice cube (or 4 to 5 smaller cubes) into the rocks glass with your cocktail.
  9. Cut a 2-inch piece of orange peel, hold it skin-side down about 3 inches above the drink, and bend it sharply to release the oils over the surface.
  10. Drop the orange peel into the glass as a garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy while properly chilled.

Notes

Use quality reposado tequila for best results. Stir (don't shake) to keep the drink silky and spirit-forward. Use a single large ice cube for slower melting and less dilution. The orange peel expression is essential for aroma and should not be skipped. Measure agave nectar carefully with a jigger for proper balance. Store unused tequila sealed and upright in a cool, dark place. Agave nectar keeps indefinitely at room temperature. Bitters last at least 5 years in a cool, dark cabinet.