A copycat drink. Essentially a Spiced Old Fashioned.
Every now and then you order a cocktail at a restaurant that just sticks with you. That happened recently at Core 450, where I ordered a drink called The Spice Trader. It was essentially a spiced Old Fashioned—but layered, bold and perfectly balanced.
It had that high-proof backbone you want in a serious whiskey cocktail, but it also carried this warm wave of cinnamon and ginger, followed by a subtle chocolate finish that made each sip feel a little indulgent. It was familiar, but elevated.
Naturally, I came home thinking about how I’d recreate something in that same spirit.
This isn’t their exact recipe—just my take inspired by that night. I leaned into barrel-proof bourbon for depth, built a cinnamon-ginger simple syrup for warmth and finished it with chocolate bitters for that lingering, almost dessert-like complexity.
If you love an Old Fashioned but want something with a little more spice and personality, this one delivers.
Why this cocktail works?
This cocktail works because it keeps the structure of a classic Old Fashioned while layering in warmth and depth. Barrel-proof bourbon delivers bold oak, caramel and heat that can stand up to the spice. The cinnamon-ginger syrup adds sweetness with a gentle kick, rounding out the alcohol without dulling it. Chocolate bitters tie everything together, adding subtle richness and a dry cocoa finish that lingers just long enough. It’s balanced, bold and built for slow sipping.
Ingredients for The Spice Trader
- 2 oz Barrel proof Elijah Craig
- 1/2 oz Cinnamon ginger simple syrup (use that recipe but add to cinnamon sticks)
- 2-3 dashes Chocolate bitters
- Orange peel to garnish
How to make The Spice Trader
- Add the bourbon, cinnamon ginger simple syrup and chocolate bitters to a cocktail shaker with ice.
- Shake to combine and chill about 20 seconds.
- Strain into a tumbler with one large ice cube.
- Express the orange peel and add it to the drink.
- Enjoy!
More About Core 450
We recently had dinner with friends at Core 450, a beautiful restaurant overlooking the Cherokee Valley golf course just north of Greenville. We sat outside on the patio watching golfers finish their rounds while the sun set over the mountains. They had a firepit going so we got whiffs of smoke. One of those evenings where the setting almost steals the show.
The food, drinks and atmosphere were all excellent. With its open-kitchen concept, scenic views and a menu full of elevated but approachable dishes and cocktails, it’s the kind of place that makes a night out feel special without feeling overly formal.
After enjoying the evening and a cocktail that inspired this Spice Trader, we’re already planning a return visit. Once I’ve had the chance to explore more of the menu, I’ll likely put together a full review here on the blog. 🍽️🥃
one foodie 