Learn how to make my favorite cocktail recipe: Dolomite Old Fashioned. This is a creative twist on the classic, combining the rich flavors of rye bourbon with the bittersweet notes of Amaro Nonino and the depth of a homemade Dolcetto wine simple syrup. Get ready to impress your palette and your guests with this unique and easy cocktail recipe.

two dolomite old fashioned cocktail in rocks glasses.

This Dolomite Old Fashioned is from one of my favorite restaurants in Pittsburgh, Alta Via. Conveniently, there’s one close to where I live, and they’ve recently opened another in the heart of downtown. I’ve visited countless times and have always had a delightful experience with nothing but enjoyable dishes. (You might recall that I shared a beloved Shaved Brussels Sprouts Salad recipe which was inspired by a salad at Alta Via!)

They serve a cocktail called Dolomite Old Fashioned. It has become my favorite and go-to cocktail recipe. I get it every time I go there (which is at least once a month) and savor it with every sip! For me, it’s the perfect level of sweetness with a touch of spice, and a hint of berry. SO GOOD!

dolomite old fashioned cocktails served in glasses with festive decor.

On one of my visits, I mustered up the courage to ask our server if she could share the recipe with me, and she graciously obliged, jotting down every detail. I was over the moon with happiness!

Naturally, I had to give it a try and see if I could create my favorite Old Fashioned recipe at home. I’m happy to report it’s as delicious as I would have hoped and I know you’re going to love it too!

dolomite old fashioned cocktail served in a rocks glass with large ice cube.

TABLE OF CONTENTS hide

1 Why You’ll Love This Recipe

2 Ingredients

3 How To Make

4 Frequently Asked Questions

5 More Bourbon Cocktails You Will Love

6 Dolomite Old Fashioned

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Everyone loves a good Old Fashioned, but this recipe takes it up a notch. The addition of Amaro Nonino brings a wonderful bittersweet flavor, blending caramel and sweet orange notes with a hint of spice. It’s like giving a classic melody a delightful new harmony.
The red wine simple syrup is a game changer. Using a Dolcetto wine (which is known for its juicy fruit flavors, subtle spicy aromas, and earthy undertones) adds an unexpected depth and sweetness to the cocktail. It’s like discovering a hidden layer in your favorite song.
Once you try this recipe, there’s no going back. It’s the kind of recipe that makes you look forward to the end of the day, the perfect blend of comfort and excitement in a glass.

Love bourbon cocktails as much as I do and want more? You’ve got it. Check out this collection of all my very best bourbon cocktails. There is something for everyone to enjoy! And be sure to check out my guide to the best bourbon for an old fashioned.

old fashioned cocktail with large ice cube in a rocks glass.

Ingredients

Alright, let’s gather up a few essential ingredients so we can craft this Dolomite Old Fashioned. Here’s what you’ll need:

Rye Bourbon: The backbone of any Old Fashioned, rye bourbon brings a robust, spicy flavor. It’s the strong, silent type that provides a firm foundation for the other ingredients to shine. The restaurant used Old Overholt. I used my go-to bourbon (which is not a rye) Four Roses Single Barrel.
Amaro Nonino: This Italian digestif is the twist in our tale as it offers a bittersweet melody of caramel, sweet orange, and subtle spices. It’s like the intriguing character in a story that adds depth and complexity.
Dolcetto Syrup: Made from Dolcetto wine, this syrup introduces a sweet, fruity element with an undertone of earthy spices. It’s basically red wine simple syrup, but it adds a layer of richness and a hint of mystery.
Angostura Bitters: A classic in cocktail making, these bitters are like the spice in your favorite dish. They add a dimension of depth and a hint of herbal intrigue, balancing the sweetness perfectly.
Orange Peel and Luxardo Cherry: This garnish is more than just decoration; it’s the final flourish. The orange peel adds a zesty aroma, while the Luxardo cherry provides a sweet, luxurious finish. Together, they’re the final notes in this flavorful melody.

Mmmm! Very fancy! I mean, it just sounds delicious. I’m thirsty! Let me show you how to make it.

dolomite old fashioned cocktails served in two glasses with cherry garnish.

two festive dolomite old fashion cocktails in rocks glasses.

How To Make

Ready? It’s time to shake up this Dolomite Old Fashioned. I’ll walk you through the process below. I’ve also provided a full ingredient list and detailed instructions in the printable recipe card below.

Start by making the Dolcetto syrup. Add 1 part red wine (Dolcetto if available, but any dry red will do) and 1 part sugar to a saucepan. Heat over medium heat just until the sugar dissolves. Remove from heat and allow to cool.
Begin by adding a large ice cube to a rocks glass.

hand adding simple syrup to a cocktail shaker filled with ice.

In a cocktail shaker with ice, combine the bourbon, Amaro Nonino, Dolcetto syrup, and bitters. Shake vigorously.

cocktail shaker pouring old fashioned into a rocks glass with large ice cube.

Strain into the prepared glass over the ice cube. Garnish with an orange peel and a Luxardo cherry.

Serve, sip, and enjoy my friend!

hand adding orange peel garnish to dolomite old fashioned cocktail.

Mmmm. As I’m writing this post I can taste the sweet and complex flavors of this Old Fashioned.

I may have to mix one up when five o’clock rolls around. Ha!

two dolomite old fashioned cocktails served on a cutting board.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of bourbon?

Absolutely! While rye bourbon adds a spicy kick, feel free to experiment with your favorite bourbon. Each type brings its own character to the cocktail, making it uniquely yours.

What if I can’t find Amaro Nonino?

Amaro Nonino is unique, but you can substitute it with another amaro for a similar bittersweet profile. Each amaro will add its own twist, so don’t be afraid to experiment!

Is the Dolcetto syrup essential?

The Dolcetto syrup adds a special touch, but you can use a standard simple syrup in a pinch.

Where can I find Luxardo Cherries?

These are the best! You can find them online or they are typically sold at the wine and spirit store. They are expensive, but I think they are worth it.

Can this cocktail be batched for parties?

Definitely! Mix the ingredients (except the ice and garnishes) in a larger quantity and keep it chilled. When it’s time to serve, pour over ice, add the garnishes, and you’re all set for a hassle-free, elegant serving.

two dolomite old fashioned cocktails with a hand lifting one up.

More Bourbon Cocktails You Will Love

As we come to the end of our delicious journey with the Dolomite Old Fashioned, I hope you feel as excited as I was about mixing up this delightful cocktail.

If you try this Old Fashioned recipe I’d love to hear what you think. Please stop back and leave a comment and a 5-star rating below.

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