Rosemary Old Fashioned Recipe

If you’re a fan of classic cocktails with a fresh, herbal twist, this rosemary-infused Old Fashioned is sure to impress. Featuring a homemade demerara rosemary simple syrup, bitters, and smooth whiskey, this recipe balances aromatic herbal notes with the warming flavors of a traditional Old Fashioned. Perfect for cocktail enthusiasts who want to elevate their home bartending game.

Rosemary Old Fashioned

A classic Old Fashioned elevated with fragrant rosemary-infused simple syrup and a balanced blend of bitters for a fresh, aromatic twist.

4.50 from 2 votes

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Equipment

• Jigger (where to buy)
• Mixing glass (where to buy)
• Bar spoon (where to buy)
• Julep strainer (where to buy)

Ingredients

  

• 6 cl whiskey I used Rittenhouse Rye, but feel free to use any whiskey you prefer.
• 1 Heavy Bar spoon Rosemary-Infused Semi-Rich Demerara Syrup about 7ml
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters (If using a Japanese bitters bottle, use 2 dashes; if using a standard bitters bottle, use 1 dash.)
• 2 dashes orange bitters (If using a Japanese bitters bottle, use 2 dashes; if using a standard bitters bottle, use 1 dash.)
• Rosemary sprig for garnish

Instructions

 

• In a mixing glass, combine 6 cl of whiskey, 2 dashes of Angostura bitters, 2 dashes of orange bitters, and 1 heavy barspoon (approximately 7.5 ml) of Rosemary-Infused Semi-Rich Demerara Syrup.
• Add ice and stir with a bar spoon until chilled and diluted t
• Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
• Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig.

Why Rosemary?

Rosemary isn’t just for cooking—it brings a woody, fragrant aroma that adds depth and complexity to cocktails, especially spirit-forward ones like an Old Fashioned. Infusing your simple syrup with rosemary lets you control the balance perfectly — you get just enough herbal lift without overpowering the whiskey.

Bitters and Balance

The combination of bitters and orange bitters creates a layered complexity, balancing the sweetness of the syrup and the boldness of the whiskey. It’s all about harmony in this cocktail.

Tips for the Perfect Serve

• Use a large ice cube to keep the drink cold without watering it down too quickly.
• Give your rosemary sprig a gentle smack before garnishing to release its aromatic oils.
• If you want to experiment, try swapping the whiskey for a rye or bourbon to explore different flavor profiles.
• Store your rosemary syrup in the fridge for up to two weeks; always give it a shake before use.

Final Thoughts

This rosemary-infused Old Fashioned is a fantastic way to impress guests or enjoy a beautifully crafted cocktail at home. The herbal notes from the rosemary syrup, balanced with bitters and whiskey, create a fresh and complex drink. Making your own rosemary syrup means you can tailor the intensity to your taste.

Give it a try — a little herbal twist can breathe new life into a classic!

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