Step 1

Use a vegetable peeler or knife to carefully cut a 2- to 3-inch-long piece of orange peel.  Run the pulp-side of the peel around the rim of the cocktail glass, then set the peel aside for later.

Step 2

Add the bourbon, bitters, and maple syrup to the glass, and briefly stir to combine.  Add the ice, then briefly stir the drink one more time to mix and chill.

Step 3

Give the orange peel a good twist above the glass to release its oils, then tuck it into the drink.  Add a maraschino cherry (if using) and serve immediately.