The Honey Barrell
Warming, spirit-forward, and just a little bit sweet, the Old Fashioned is a natural choice for an after-dinner drink. This version from Head Bartender Pete Stanton of Ai Fiori NYC plays up the dessert-y aspects of the drink without veering into overly sweet territory.
Inspired by Barrell Bourbon Batch 035’s toasty, honey-nut overtones, Stanton reached for nocino, an Italian green walnut liqueur, as a flavor partner. It adds sweet and nutty characteristics, but also brings a hint of bitterness. Oloroso sherry adds another layer of dry, almost saline nuttiness while also softening the cask-strength bourbon. Honey and orange lift these bold flavors into bright, floral balance.
Honey Barrel
● 2 ounces Barrell Bourbon Batch 035
● ¼ ounce nocino
● ¼ ounce honey syrup*
● ¼ ounce Oloroso sherry
● 2 dashes orange liqueur
● 6 dashes aromatic bitters
● Strip of orange zest
● Honeycomb toffee, for garnish
Add all ingredients except honeycomb to a mixing glass. Fill with ice and stir well. Strain into an Old Fashioned glass with a big ice cube, and garnish with the slice of honeycomb toffee.
*Honey syrup
Dissolve one part hot water into three parts raw honey. Stir until fully incorporated.