While traditionally made with whiskey, substituting bourbon for a premium dark rum like Captain Morgan Black Label yields an exceptionally decadent Old Fashioned. The inherent sweetness of aged molasses and pot-still rum marries brilliantly with aromatic bitters and orange oils, creating a velvety texture that coats the palate.
Begin by muddling a sugar cube with a few dashes of Angostura bitters and a splash of water in the bottom of a heavy-bottomed rocks glass. Add a large, crystal-clear ice cube to minimize dilution, then pour in two ounces of the dark rum, stirring gently for twenty seconds to chill the mixture.
Express the oils from a fresh orange peel over the surface of the drink and drop it in as a garnish. The resulting cocktail is rich, aromatic, and dangerously smooth, offering a sophisticated way to unwind after a long day or to impress guests at your next dinner party.