Chestnut Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

I’ve always loved the classic Old Fashioned, but I wanted to put a new twist on it. Chestnut syrup brings a warm, nutty flavor to this traditional cocktail.

If you’re looking for a unique drink that’s easy to make at home, the Chestnut Old Fashioned is a great choice. The mix of bourbon and chestnut syrup creates a smooth, comforting taste.

I find it’s perfect for cozy nights or impressing friends with something different. This recipe is simple and doesn’t take much time, so anyone can give it a try.

Chestnut Old Fashioned Cocktail Recipe

This drink uses chestnut syrup for a nutty twist on the classic Old Fashioned. I aim for balanced flavors, so the right tools, measured ingredients, and careful steps matter.

Equipment

• Rocks glass: I prefer a heavy-bottomed glass for a classic feel.
• Mixing glass: This helps me blend the flavors before serving.
• Bar spoon: Essential for gentle stirring.
• Jigger: Using this ensures I measure spirits and syrup exactly.
• Fine strainer: This helps me remove any small bits of ice or solids.
• Muddler: Useful if I want to incorporate any citrus peel oils.
• Ice: I use a large ice cube if I have one, so the drink doesn’t water down too fast.
• Peeler: To get a nice citrus peel for the garnish.

Ingredients

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• ½ oz chestnut syrup (homemade or store-bought)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Orange peel (for garnish)
• Optional: Cherry for garnish

The quality of my whiskey makes a big difference. I use a smooth bourbon for a sweeter version or rye if I want something spicier.

Chestnut syrup brings a rich, nutty taste, so I don’t skip it. I add bitters to balance the sweetness, and the orange peel makes the drink smell bright and fresh.

Instructions

• Add the chestnut syrup and bitters to the mixing glass.
• Pour in the whiskey.
• Fill the mixing glass with ice—about two-thirds full.
• Stir gently for 20–30 seconds until the drink is cold and well mixed.
• Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
• Twist an orange peel over the glass to release oils.
• Drop the peel into the drink.
• Add a cherry, if I want a little extra garnish.

I always taste and adjust the sweetness by adding a touch more syrup if needed. Stirring, not shaking, keeps the drink silky.

Notes

Chestnut syrup is not always easy to find in stores. When I make it at home, I mix water, sugar, and chestnut purée and simmer until thick.

If I want more depth, I add a pinch of sea salt. Using quality ice matters.

A large cube chills the drink without melting fast. I sometimes warm the orange peel slightly before twisting it, which gives a richer aroma.

If I don’t have whiskey, I’ve tried this recipe with dark rum, and it still tastes great. I skip the cherry garnish if I want a more classic flavor, letting the chestnut and orange shine.

Tasting Notes

When I take my first sip of the Chestnut Old Fashioned, I notice the subtle, nutty aroma right away. The scent of roasted chestnuts blends softly with the warmth of bourbon.

The drink tastes smooth and rich. The chestnut flavor adds a gentle sweetness that isn’t overwhelming.

It feels balanced, with a hint of earthiness that’s different from the classic Old Fashioned. Honestly, I wasn’t sure what to expect, but it works.

Here are some of the flavors I notice while drinking:

• Sweetness: Almost like brown sugar, but milder
• Nutty notes: Light roasted chestnut flavor
• Bitterness: Just a little from the bitters
• Citrus: A touch of orange peel

The texture is also different. I find the cocktail a bit silkier than usual, almost creamy.

The ice chills it perfectly, helping the flavors blend. There’s something about the way it all comes together that just feels right.

Each sip feels cozy, making it great for relaxing evenings. The chestnut gives the drink a unique twist and makes each sip interesting.