Fig and walnut are natural partners for bourbon. This Old Fashioned leans into dried fruit, toasted nut, and oak without becoming syrupy. It is a cool-weather drink with a collector's lounge feel.
Fig and Walnut Old Fashioned
Prep time: 5 to 8 minutes (with prepared ingredients)
Glass
Rocks glass
Method
Stirred
Serves
1
Flavor Profile
Fig, walnut, orange
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/4 oz fig syrup
- 2 dashes walnut bitters
- 1 dash aromatic bitters
- Orange peel
Method
- Add ingredients to a mixing glass.
- Stir with ice until chilled.
- Strain over one large cube.
- Express orange oil over the surface.
- Garnish with the peel.
Bar Tools
- Mixing glass
- Strainer
- Bar spoon
Whiskey Scene Notes
Use fig syrup sparingly. It should deepen the drink, not dominate it.
Choosing the Whiskey
Choose mature bourbon with oak, vanilla, and dried fruit notes.
Technique Notes
This is a stirred drink, so texture depends on dilution. Stir until cold and glossy.
Pairing Suggestions
Pair with blue cheese, walnuts, roast pork, dark chocolate, or dried fruit.
Variations
- Use rye for a drier finish.
- Add a barspoon of oloroso sherry.
- Use maple syrup instead of fig.
Hosting and Service
Serve in a rocks glass with one large cube. This cocktail is well suited to cigar pairings and after-dinner editorial features.
