Put the simple syrup, bitters, and orange peel in the glass.
Gently muddle (press ingredients together) and stir for a few seconds.
Fill the glass with ice.
Pour the whiskey over the ice.
Garnish as desired and top off with cranberry juice if desired.
Notes
Cranberry simple syrup is best, and easy to make, but can be substituted for regular simple syrup and a splash of cranberry juice.Use a vegetable peeler on an orange (or tangerine, etc) for an easy, thick orange peel.Make this cocktail for a crowd! Increase the ingredients to the number of drinks you want (use the servings adjustment above for auto-calculation). Combine the simple syrup, bitters, orange peels, and whiskey in a pitcher or serving container. Set out ice and glasses for pouring.Old fashioned cocktails are strong. Make them weaker by adding club soda for some neutral sparkle or cranberry juice.