Rude Tom

Written by Tristan McBride
A bold twist on an Old Fashioned with a smooth attitude and a spicy kick. The Rude Tom isn’t here to play nice — it’s rich, layered, and unapologetically flavorful. Bourbon lays the foundation with warm, oaky depth, while dark maple syrup adds a smooth, natural sweetness. A generous dose of bitters (Angostura, orange, and cinnamon) brings complexity and bite, while the egg white creates a silky, frothy texture that softens the edges. It finishes with a whisper of citrus and spice — thanks to the orange peel and cinnamon stick garnish. Flavor Profile: Body: Full, creamy, and smooth Sweetness: Subtly sweet from maple, not syrupy Bitterness: Elevated, aromatic, and well-balanced Spice: Notes of baking spice, cinnamon warmth, and citrus zest Finish: Long, silky, with a hint of heat and a bold personality Perfect for cold nights, late conversations, or whenever you want a cocktail that talks back a little.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon (a spicy, full-bodied one like Bulleit or Woodford Reserve)
  • 1/2 oz pure maple syrup (grade A, dark)
  • 3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • 2 dashes orange bitters
  • 1 dash cinnamon bitters (or a pinch of ground cinnamon)
  • 1 egg white
  • Cinnamon stick (for garnish)
  • Orange Peel (optional, for garnish)

Steps

  1. Dry shake (no ice): Combine bourbon, maple syrup, all bitters, and the egg white in a shaker. Shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to emulsify the egg white.
  2. Wet shake (with ice): Add ice and shake again until well chilled, about another 15 seconds.
  3. Strain into a rocks glass — you can go straight up or pour it over a large ice cube, depending on preference.
  4. Garnish with an expressed orange peel and a cinnamon stick.

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Meet the Author

author-photo
I'm Tristan McBride, an amateur mixologist from Chester Springs, Pennsylvania.