Yuletide Old Fashioned

Description: Capture the warm and cozy essence of Christmas with a unique spin on the classic old fashioned. The Yuletide Old Fashioned combines the traditional elements of a timeless favorite, with festive spices and flavors that evoke holiday cheer. Serve it up in a rocks glass for the perfect seasonal toast. Ingredients: - 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey - 1/2 oz spiced cranberry syrup (see below) - 2 dashes of orange bitters - 1 dash of cinnamon bitters - Orange peel for garnish - Fresh rosemary sprig for garnish - Sugared cranberry garnish Spiced Cranberry Syrup: - 1 cup fresh cranberries - 1 cup water - 1 cup sugar - 1 cinnamon stick - 3 cloves - 1 star anise Instructions for Spiced Cranberry Syrup: 1. Combine cranberries, water, and sugar in a saucepan over medium heat. 2. Add the cinnamon stick, cloves, and star anise. 3. Bring to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally, until cranberries burst and the mixture thickens slightly (about 10 minutes). 4. Strain the syrup into a jar, discarding the solids, and let it cool. Store in the refrigerator. Instructions for Yuletide Old Fashioned: 1. In a rocks glass, combine the spiced cranberry syrup and bitters. 2. Add the bourbon or rye whiskey, gently stirring to combine. 3. Fill the glass with a large ice cube and stir until well chilled. 4. Express the oils from the orange peel over the glass and drop it in. 5. Garnish with a fresh rosemary sprig and a couple of sugared cranberries for a festive touch. 6. Serve and toast to the spirit of the season.