Crafting the "Circa 1856 Old Fashioned" at Chicken Cock

A Toast to Tradition

In the heart of Bourbon Country, Chicken Cock Distillery honors nearly two centuries of craft—and today, Aged in Oak co-founder, Justin Pantle, steps behind the bar to do the same. As co-founder of Aged in Oak, he’s built his reputation hunting down the rarest barrel picks and sharing them with collectors. But it’s here, at this storied distillery in Bardstown, Kentucky, where he pays homage to the origins of America’s most enduring cocktail: the Old Fashioned.

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The Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 oz Chicken Cock Rye
• ¼ oz Demerara Syrup
• 2 dashes Aromatic Bitters
• 2 dashes Orange Bitters

Directions

1. Build all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
2. Stir until well-chilled (about 20–30 seconds).
3. Strain over a single large ice cube in a rocks glass.
4. Lay a raw sugar sprinkle on half an orange wheel, torch until brûléed, then drop into the glass.

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Try It at Home

Click “Play” above to see Justin’s technique in action, then gather your tools: a sturdy stirrer, a heat-safe spoon for your torch, and plenty of ice. Whether you’re deepening your appreciation for rye or simply looking for a concierge-level Old Fashioned, this “Circa 1856” recipe is a masterclass in balance and showmanship.

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Don’t forget to tag @ChickenCockWhiskey and @AgedInOak_ on social.