DrinkWire is Liquor.com’s showcase for the best articles, recipes and reviews from the web’s top writers and bloggers. In this post, The Cocktail Artist offers an old fashioned twist.

This is what happens when you can't leave well enough alone. The Old Fashioned is a cocktail that's been around for a long time (hence the name), and it's one of those beautifully uncomplicated drinks. The classic version dates to the 1800's and it consists of rye or bourbon, a sugar cube, and bitters. In the mid 20th century the cocktail acquired a few accessories - including a cherry, orange and sometimes club soda. Traditionalists scoff at these late-to-the-party additions, but mixologists just can't help making changes. Our Old Thyme replaces the sugar cube of the original version with a honey-thyme simple syrup. We also added both orange and aromatic bitters. This creates a drink that is deceptively simple. Use good quality rye, sip it slowly and it will reveal the layers of flavor. It's a great summer to fall transition cocktail.

Old Thyme Cocktail

2 1/2 ounces Rye (Catoctin Creek Roundstone Rye)
3/4 ounce thyme-honey simple syrup (see recipe below)
2 dashes aromatic bitters (Scrappy's Bitters)
2 dashes orange bitters (Scrappy's Bitters)

Pour rye, simple syrup, and both bitters into an old-fashioned glass and stir well. Add a large ice cube, swirl the glass and garnish with a lemon rind and a sprig of thyme.

See the recipe on our Cocktail Artist blog

Thyme Simple Syrup

1/2 cup water
1/2 cup orange blossom honey
1/2 cup (packed) of lemon thyme sprigs

Combine honey and water in a small saucepan and bring to a low boil. Add thyme and simmer for 10 minutes. Remove pan from heat, cover and let steep for 15 minutes. Cool to room temperature and strain through a sieve. Put in a covered bottle and refrigerate for up to 2 weeks.