There is something about classic things that always ring true. Classic cars always turn heads. We know the words to Hey Jude by the Beatles. A handwritten letter is more personal than an email or digital message.

We have worked from home these past weeks and wanted to share a few classic cocktail recipes that we have enjoyed at the end of our day. 

The ingredients are simple across the board. For the whiskey we chose a local North Carolina distillery, Defiant, for their American single malt Rye Whiskey. You can make simple syrup by heating 1 cup of water to boiling then dissolving 1 cup of sugar until cool. Angostura bitters, Sweet Vermouth, and oranges can be found at your local grocery store. 

Old Fashioned

You cannot get more classic than an old fashioned. Its simple recipe makes the rye or bourbon of your choice shine with a smooth, spirit forward finish. For 200 years people have been playing with this recipe so don't be afraid to mix it up. 

Ingredients: 

• 4 Dashes of Angostura bitters
• 1.5 tbsp Simple Sugar
• 3 oz Rye Whiskey 
• Orange peal garnish

Directions:

Combine bitters and simple syrup in glass. Add Whiskey. Stir. Add 1 large ice cube or 3 or 4 small cubes. Stir until chilled, about 30 seconds. Wipe the orange twist around lip of the glass and add to drink. Final stir before drinking.  

Manhattan

One of the finest and oldest cocktails, the Manhattan is truly a classic cocktail. It is a simple drink recipe that can be modified easily to fit your style and taste. Your choice of rye or bourbon anchor this drink and is sure to be a hit with your friends. 

Ingredients:

• 2 3/4 oz Rye Whiskey
• 1oz Sweet Vermouth
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Garnish with orange twist

Directions:

Fill glass with 2/3 ice. Add bitters, vermouth, and whiskey. Add orange twist. Stir.

Whiskey Neat

Let's be honest, some days you just need a whiskey neat. 

Ingredients: 

• 4oz Defiant Rye Whiskey

Directions:

Add whiskey to your glass. Enjoy.

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