PHERIS & JAMES

There’s a reason the Old Fashioned cocktail is a timeless favorite: It’s classic, it’s simple, and when it’s smooth and balanced, there’s nothing better. More than 20 years ago, my friend Pheris taught me how to mix up a perfect Old Fashioned. We’d go from party to party in Uptown New Orleans and between some of the old members-only clubs downtown, and people couldn’t get enough of them. It got to the point where we’d carry small bottles of the syrup wherever we went, just in case anyone wanted one.

All you need is your favorite bourbon (rye whiskey, brandy, or rum), a teaspoon or two of this drink mix, a squeeze of orange, a nice ice cube, and a quick stir. Don’t muddle the orange, though. I just give a twist of that rind around the rim. Just like that, you’ve got one of the best Old Fashioned cocktails you’ve ever had. Not too sweet, just right.

- James