Few cocktails carry the timeless confidence of an Old Fashioned. It’s bold, balanced, and unapologetically spirit-forward—a drink that doesn’t chase trends but quietly sets the standard. Now imagine that iconic cocktail wrapped in winter warmth: aromatic spices, bright citrus oils, and just enough sweetness to soften the chill of cold nights. That’s exactly what the Winter Spiced Old Fashioned delivers.

This recipe takes everything you love about the classic Old Fashioned and layers in subtle seasonal notes—think cinnamon, clove, and orange—without overpowering the bourbon at its heart. It’s cozy without being heavy, festive without being fussy, and elegant enough for holiday entertaining while still easy enough to make on a quiet evening at home.

Whether you’re hosting a winter dinner party, looking for a signature holiday cocktail, or simply craving something comforting to sip by the fire, this drink earns its place in your cold-weather rotation.

Why the Old Fashioned Is Perfect for Winter

The Old Fashioned is already a naturally warming cocktail thanks to its bourbon base. Bourbon’s vanilla, caramel, and oak notes pair beautifully with winter spices, making it the ideal canvas for seasonal customization.

Unlike sugary holiday cocktails that rely on syrups or cream, a Winter Spiced Old Fashioned remains balanced and refined. The spices enhance rather than distract, while fresh citrus keeps the drink bright and lively. The result is a cocktail that feels indulgent yet grown-up—perfect for slower evenings and longer conversations.

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon (preferably 90–100 proof for depth)
0.25 oz spiced simple syrup (see tips below)
2 dashes aromatic bitters
1 dash orange bitters
Orange peel, for garnish
Cinnamon stick, for garnish
Star anise or whole clove, optional garnish
Large clear ice cube

Instructions

Place a large clear ice cube into a rocks glass and set aside to chill.
In a mixing glass, add the bourbon, spiced simple syrup, aromatic bitters, and orange bitters.
Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir gently for about 20–30 seconds, until well chilled and slightly diluted.
Strain the cocktail over the prepared ice cube in the rocks glass.
Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink by twisting it gently above the glass, then drop it in.
Garnish with a cinnamon stick and optional star anise or clove for extra aroma.
Serve immediately and enjoy slowly.

Creating the Perfect Spiced Simple Syrup

A winter old fashioned truly shines when you use a homemade spiced simple syrup. It’s easy to make and elevates the drink dramatically.

To prepare it, combine equal parts sugar and water in a saucepan. Add cinnamon sticks, whole cloves, star anise, and a strip of orange peel. Simmer gently until the sugar dissolves, then remove from heat and let steep until cool. Strain and store refrigerated for up to two weeks.

This syrup brings warmth and complexity without overwhelming sweetness, allowing the bourbon to remain the star.

Choosing the Right Bourbon

Not all bourbons behave the same in cocktails, especially spirit-forward ones like an Old Fashioned. For winter versions, look for bourbons with:

Notes of vanilla, caramel, and baking spice
A proof between 90 and 100 for structure
Minimal added sweetness

Rye-heavy bourbons also work beautifully, adding a subtle peppery kick that contrasts nicely with warm spices.

Tips for the Best Winter Spiced Old Fashioned

Use large ice cubes to slow dilution and preserve flavor.
Always express citrus oils—this step adds aroma that transforms the drink.
Stir, don’t shake. Shaking introduces air and clouds the cocktail.
Taste before serving and adjust sweetness if needed.

Variations to Try

Smoked Winter Old Fashioned:
Lightly smoke the glass with applewood or cinnamon wood chips before pouring for a campfire-like aroma.

Maple Spiced Old Fashioned:
Replace spiced simple syrup with high-quality maple syrup for deeper sweetness.

Orange-Forward Version:
Add a small bar spoon of orange liqueur for a brighter citrus profile.

Non-Alcoholic Winter Old Fashioned:
Use a zero-proof bourbon alternative and bitters-style non-alcoholic mixers for a cozy mocktail.

Serving Suggestions

The Winter Spiced Old Fashioned pairs beautifully with:

Dark chocolate desserts
Spiced nuts or roasted almonds
Charcuterie boards with aged cheeses
Gingerbread or molasses cookies

Serve it as a pre-dinner cocktail or as a slow-sipping nightcap to end the evening on a warm note.

A Bit of Old Fashioned History

The Old Fashioned dates back to the early 1800s and is considered one of the first true cocktails. Its simple formula—spirit, sugar, bitters, and water—set the foundation for countless drinks that followed.

Adding seasonal spices is a modern evolution, but one that stays true to the drink’s original spirit. The Winter Spiced Old Fashioned respects tradition while embracing the flavors of the season, proving that classics can evolve without losing their soul.

Why This Recipe Works

This recipe is intentionally restrained. Instead of overpowering the drink with heavy syrups or artificial flavors, it uses real spices, fresh citrus oils, and quality bourbon. Each element supports the others, creating a cocktail that feels cohesive, intentional, and deeply satisfying.

It’s the kind of drink that slows you down—in the best way.