For some odd reason this month, I have fallen in love with Old Fashioneds, and while I'm not a dedicated whiskey guy this cocktail blows my socks off. It seems like such a lovely sippin' attitude-adjuster to a stressful day. And I've grown to love it so much that I'm delving into the history and variations on this noble and venerable potion. I've read up on the history and recipes (including the Pendennis Club "myth" and the topping-with-seltzer controversy) and now I want to open it up to fellow cocktail lovers out there: What comprises a "proper" Old Fashioned to you? Either recipes or bartenders/locales would be welcome.

I'll add my own home formula after hearing from some of you first But I'll give you a hint: I use rye whiskey instead of bourbon.