Anejo Old Fashioned

This drink is yet another creation from the guys at The Gin Joint in Charleston, SC. It’s a great take on the Classic Old Fashioned which normally has some simple syrup, bitters and bourbon and is finished off with a nice big piece of lemon peel. The Classic is a great drink and if you have yet to try one you’re missing out big time. Now getting back to this Anejo Old Fashioned, which I almost always order, the thing to talk about is of course anejo which refers to the tequila that graces this amazing drink.  Anejo really just means aged in Spanish and many things are referred to as anejo, for instance cheese, rum, and in this case tequila. Now for tequila to be called anejo is must be aged for at least one year, but not more than three, in oak barrels. A word of caution before you venture into this one, anejo tequila is pricey no matter what brad you choose to buy. I use Don Julio and it runs anywhere from $52.00 a handle to $60.00. So if you’re not sure about this one right off the bat you might try to either find a place that serves it and try it that way or see if someone you know has some you can try. Enough of this lets get to what you want, the know how.

2 oz Anejo Tequila

¼ oz Agave Nectar

2 Dashes Grapefruit Bitters

1 Large Piece of Lemon Zest

Start by getting your nice piece of lemon zest and putting it right in the serving glass, I use a double old-fashioned. Then add the bitters and nectar. A little tip put the nectar in the microwave for a few seconds it makes it much easier to work with. Now you’ll need to gently muddle the ingredients so the oils in the zest release. Once you’ve done this add the tequila and stir it all together. Now add one large piece of ice and you’re ready to imbibe freely.