Day 1: Evergreen Old Fashioned

Day 1: Evergreen Old Fashioned

We’re starting the Heritage Road Spirits Holiday Advent Calendar with a festive twist on a timeless classic: the Evergreen Old Fashioned. Inspired by winter landscapes and cozy fireside evenings, this cocktail combines the bold richness of Heritage Road Bourbon with the earthy aroma of rosemary, the subtle sweetness of maple syrup, and the tart brightness of cranberry. It’s the perfect way to toast to the beginning of the holiday season.

In the Evergreen Old Fashioned, each ingredient tells a story. The rosemary sprig brings a hint of the evergreen trees that define the winter landscape, while cranberry juice and maple syrup lend a sweetness that warms the soul—much like the traditions that keep us connected to family and friends. The bourbon’s depth and richness balance these seasonal flavors, grounding the cocktail in the bold, all-American character that’s central to Heritage Road Spirits.

Cocktail Description:

The Evergreen Old Fashioned is a holiday-inspired cocktail that blends bourbon, maple, cranberry, and rosemary for a festive twist on the classic. It’s bold, cozy, and perfect for winter gatherings.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Heritage Road Bourbon

• 1/2 oz cranberry simple syrup (recipe below)

• 1 rosemary sprig

• 2 dashes Angostura bitters

• 1 dash cinnamon bitters (optional)

• Orange peel and fresh cranberries for garnish

Instructions:

1. Lightly muddle a small rosemary sprig in the bottom of a rocks glass to release its aroma.

2. Add the cranberry simple syrup, bitters, and bourbon. Stir gently to combine.

3. Fill the glass with ice and stir until well chilled.

4. Garnish with an orange peel twist, fresh cranberries, and a sprig of rosemary for a festive presentation.

Suggested Glassware: Rocks Glass

Cranberry Simple Syrup Recipe:

• 1 cup fresh cranberries

• 1 cup water

• 1 cup sugar

1. Combine cranberries, water, and sugar in a small saucepan over medium heat.

2. Simmer until the cranberries soften and burst, about 10 minutes.

3. Strain through a fine mesh sieve, pressing to extract all liquid.

4. Cool and store in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Suggestions:

• Enhanced Aroma: Gently slap the rosemary sprig between your hands before using it as a garnish to release its oils.

• Adjust Sweetness: Add a little extra cranberry simple syrup for a sweeter drink, or reduce for a drier, bourbon-forward flavor.

• Chill Factor: Pre-chill the rocks glass for an even smoother sipping experience.

The Evergreen Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it’s an invitation to slow down and embrace the warmth and beauty of the holiday season. Its bold bourbon base and festive garnishes reflect Heritage Road’s dedication to craftsmanship and tradition.

The Evergreen Old Fashioned marks the start of the holiday season. We sip it while decorating the tree, surrounded by twinkling lights and the scent of fresh pine, creating a cherished tradition to toast the season.

Share your Evergreen Old Fashioned with #HeritageRoadAdventures! Show us your holiday creations, and we’ll feature some of our favorites as part of the celebration.