Just as bourbon whiskey is to the traditional Old Fashioned, the rum is the star of the show here, so it’s worth using a brand you know you enjoy sipping. As is generally the case with spirits, the more you spend, the better the quality, so, if possible, go for something at least mid-range, if not top shelf.
How do you achieve the perfect orange twist? Using a vegetable peeler as well as a sharp knife is essential. First, hold the orange with your non-dominant hand, and carefully apply even pressure as you slowly move your peeler across the surface. The consistent pressure is the key to getting a slice of peel that has a uniform thickness. Then, trim the edges with your knife to create a slice about two centimetres thick. Cut a small slit lengthwise in the centre, before wrapping the peel around a chopstick or straw to create a twist. Remove, and it should hold its shape. Place it on the rim of your glass, using the slit you created to keep it there snugly.
And for the ultimate Rum Old Fashioned sipping experience, pour your cocktail over a large round ice cube. Not only do the balls of ice look visually appealing in a glass, they also melt more slowly, allowing your cocktail to remain undiluted for longer.
