The OF is a cocktail of ancient lineage, often ascribed to attempts (as with the Manhattan) to "gentle" the "raw" of edge of much of early American whisky (which suggests that it continued popular thru Prohibition, when the quality and consistency of available whisky was questionable). Certainly, an OF represents a good way to enliven many of the customary "well" brands, but represents a less than optimal way to enjoy better Bourbon, Sour Mash or Rye.

I don't think I've ever run into and OF served "Up", since the "muddling" in the bottom of a heavy cut glass or crystal "short/rocks" glass glass dates back many, many decades. Some of us cling to the custom of using cane sugar instead of simple syrup, Angostura bitters, a twist of lemon peel, and a little water in the muddling, then adding ice (large cubes/chunks) and whisky (eschewing the barman's dose of club soda) and the orange slice and cherry, traditional at least in the modern era.

Somehow, for me at least, there's no better use for a short heavy Waterford crystal tumbler, its cut facets casting a colorful aura in the evening's light, than to mix, serve and enjoy of good OF. Speak of "Comfort Food"....Well that's a "Comfort Drink", a calmative and restorative ranking with a snifter of good Cognac or Armagnac.