To celebrate Thanksgiving in the U.S. we’re sharing this classic Sim’s Old Fashioned recipe from Danielle Centoni’s Portland Cooks. It just happens to be Rookery Bar’s most popular item of any sort—food or drink. The muscovado syrup is the secret, so don’t be tempted to substitute a different sugar. However, you can experiment with any number of bourbon whiskeys. The fresh orange oil makes a huge difference to the experience and shouldn’t be skipped.

Sim’s Old Fashioned

Serves 1

The Rookery Bar’s Sim’s Old Fashioned is its most popular item of any sort—food or drink. The muscovado syrup is the secret, so don’t be tempted to substitute a different sugar. However, you can experiment with any number of bourbon whiskeys. The fresh orange oil makes a huge difference to the experience and shouldn’t be skipped.

Ingredients

Ice

2 1/4 oz single-barrel bourbon

4 dashes of Angostura bitters

1 dash of Regans’ orange bitters

1 dash of Fee Brothers’ orange bitters

1/4 oz muscovado syrup (see Note)

Large ice cube, for serving

1 wide strip fresh orange peel, 2 to 3 inches long

Method

In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the bourbon, the bitters, and the muscovado syrup. Stir until cold. Strain into a short tumbler filled with a very large ice cube (to minimize dilution). Hold the orange peel over the cocktail and lightly squeeze it along its midline to express the aromatic oils into the glass. Rub it over the glass rim, then drop it into the drink.

Note: To make the muscovado syrup, combine 1 cup packed dark brown muscovado sugar (preferably India Tree brand) with 1/2 cup water in a small saucepan set over medium-low heat. Gently warm until the sugar dissolves and is no longer granular. (Do not boil.) Allow to cool completely before using. Syrup will keep refrigerated for several weeks.