A Spicy New Old Fashioned Cocktail with a Hot Honey Bourbon Twist
Sep 18, 2025
Looking to spice up your cocktail game? Our "Southern New Fashioned" is a delicious and modern new old fashioned cocktail that is guaranteed to impress. This bold hot honey bourbon cocktail is a collaborative recipe from our fabulous friends at Red Clay Hot Sauce, blending premium bourbon from Highwire Distilling with their signature honey and our special bitters. It's a perfect twist for anyone who enjoys a little heat with their whiskey.
What is a "New Old Fashioned Cocktail"?
A new old fashioned cocktail is a modern take on the classic Old Fashioned, which typically consists of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a garnish. These new versions introduce modern flavors, unique syrups, or different spirits to create a contemporary twist on a beloved classic. Our recipe, for example, uses a hot honey bourbon cocktail base to give it a unique and spicy character that traditional recipes lack.
The Southern New Fashioned Recipe
This recipe, from our friends at Red Clay Hot Sauce, is a fantastic showcase for their hot honey. It makes one cocktail.
Ingredients
- 0.5 oz Red Clay Hot-Hot Honey
- 3 dashes El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters
- 2 oz bourbon (we used Highwire Distilling)
- Orange peel, for garnish
Instructions
- In a rocks glass, add the hot honey and El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters.
- Stir the mixture until it is well combined.
- Fill the glass with ice and add the bourbon.
- Stir gently with a cocktail spoon to combine all ingredients.
- Express an orange peel over the glass by squeezing it to release the oils, and then drop it into the drink.
- Cheers y'all!
Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best bourbon for a hot honey cocktail?
For a hot honey bourbon cocktail, a smooth, high-quality bourbon works best. We recommend Highwire Distilling, but any good bourbon that can stand up to the spice of the hot honey without being overpowering will do. Look for one with notes of caramel, vanilla, or oak to complement the flavors.
Can I use regular honey instead of hot honey?
Yes, you can. If you prefer a less spicy version of this new old fashioned cocktail, simply substitute the hot honey with a high-quality regular honey or a honey syrup. You can also add a small pinch of cayenne pepper to the honey if you want to control the level of heat yourself.
What do El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters taste like?
El Guapo™ Chicory Pecan Bitters add a warm, toasty, and nutty dimension to this cocktail. The chicory provides a coffee-like bitterness, while the pecan offers a rich, comforting flavor. These notes work together to enhance the natural flavors of the bourbon and hot honey, creating a complex and balanced drink.