The drink’s simplicity—essentially, it’s a modified Old Fashioned—is part of its charm and surprising depth.

The desolate streets of Manhattan last St. Patrick’s Day—legendary Irish bars … closed!—were a chilling indication that we were in for a long haul. The city and much of the nation had just closed down, as we all began wondering what was going on (and where we could get a drink). This year looks a good bit different, so we don’t blame you if all that pent up energy leads you, next week, to find an open tavern and spend the evening with Bushmills and Guinness.

Be careful.

Better still, stay in and practice some seasonally appropriate mixology, with this intriguing take on a classic Old Fashioned.

Aberfeldy 12 is a scotch that leans toward the spirit’s sweeter side, with discernible notes of orange and vanilla. Add to that the richness of honey, and the result is a treat suitable for a holiday celebration.

The Golden Dram

INGREDIENTS

2 oz ABERFELDY 12 Years Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky

½ oz Local Honey Syrup (1 part honey, 1 part water)

2 dashes Angostura Bitters

2 dashes Orange Bitters

METHOD:

Add the honey syrup, bitters and ABERFELDY 12 Years Old to a mixing glass, then add ice and stir to chill and dilute (about 30 seconds). Pour into rocks glass over a large ice cube, then garnish with an orange twist, expressing the oils over the drink.