Which garnish is used in an Old Fashioned cocktail?

In an Old Fashioned cocktail, the typical garnish used is a cherry. This garnish complements the drink's flavors and adds a hint of sweetness. Traditionally, the Old Fashioned is made with whiskey (often bourbon or rye), sugar, bitters, and a few dashes of water. The cherry not only enhances the visual appeal of the cocktail but also contributes to the overall enjoyment of the drink by providing a rich flavor that balances the bitterness of the bitters and the strength of the whiskey.

The Old Fashioned may also occasionally include an orange twist, which enhances the aromatic profile, but the cherry has become a classic garnish in many variations and serves as a recognizable hallmark of the cocktail. The inclusion of a cherry provides a nod to the drink’s history, as the origins of the Old Fashioned date back to the early 19th century, when cocktails were often garnished with fruit.

In summary, the cherry is the classic garnish for an Old Fashioned, aligning with both traditional preparation methods and contemporary interpretations of this iconic cocktail.