Cherry Old Fashioned Recipe: The Perfect Cocktail with Bourbon Cherry Syrup
Sep 15, 2025
This cherry-forward riff on an Old Fashioned, called The Graveyard Shift, is perfect year-round, but we are particularly fond of these as the air chills in the Fall. If you're looking for an exceptional cherry old fashioned recipe, look no further. This drink uses the rich flavor of a bourbon cherry syrup to create a wonderfully balanced and delicious sipper. It's a simple, elegant way to elevate a classic cocktail and impress your friends.
The Graveyard Shift Cherry Old Fashioned Recipe
This cocktail is a masterpiece of flavor. The warm, spicy notes of the bourbon are beautifully complemented by the rich sweetness of the cherry syrup, while the El Guapo™ Cuban Bitters add a final layer of complexity.
Ingredients
- .5 oz El Guapo™ Cuban Bitters
- .5 oz syrup from @luxardousa cherries
- 3 oz bourbon (we used @13thcolony)
- @luxardousa cherries, to garnish
Instructions
- In a mixing glass filled with ice, pour the El Guapo™ Cuban Bitters, cherry syrup, and bourbon.
- Stir with a bar spoon until the mixture is well chilled.
- Strain the cocktail into a lowball or coupe glass.
- Garnish with a Luxardo cherry before serving.
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 a cherry old fashioned?
A cherry old fashioned is a variation of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. While a traditional Old Fashioned uses simple syrup, this version substitutes it with a sweet cherry syrup. This swap adds a rich, fruity flavor that complements the classic notes of bourbon and bitters.
How is bourbon cherry syrup made?
Bourbon cherry syrup is made by mixing the rich syrup from a jar of Luxardo or other high-quality cocktail cherries with a splash of bourbon. This creates a flavorful, ready-to-use sweetener that adds both cherry flavor and a hint of extra bourbon to the drink.
What is the purpose of bitters in this recipe?
Bitters are an essential ingredient in an Old Fashioned. The El Guapo™ Cuban Bitters used in this cherry old fashioned recipe add a touch of spice and complexity to the drink, preventing it from tasting too sweet and bringing all the flavors into balance.
Can I use a different type of whiskey?
Yes, while this cherry old fashioned recipe calls for bourbon, you can use other types of whiskey, such as rye or even a blended whiskey. Rye whiskey will add a spicy finish, while a smoother whiskey will result in a sweeter, more mellow drink.
