To prepare this cocktail, you'll primarily need a mixing glass, a bar spoon for stirring, a jigger or measuring tool, and a strainer. For serving, a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass is ideal. The 'Cocktail Bitters Sampler' mentioned refers to the bitters ingredient itself, such as Angostura.

This is a fantastic beginner-friendly cocktail, as it primarily involves stirring ingredients rather than complex techniques. You can expect to complete it in about 5-10 minutes from start to finish, including gathering your ingredients and chilling your glassware. Its simplicity makes it perfect for learning basic cocktail preparation.

A frequent mistake is either over or under-diluting the drink. Stir with plenty of fresh ice until the mixing glass feels very cold to the touch and the drink is well-chilled, typically 20-30 seconds. Avoid over-stirring, which can result in a watery cocktail, and taste before straining if you're unsure of the dilution level.

While the classic Toronto relies on Fernet Branca for its unique bitter profile, you could experiment with other amari if you prefer a different flavor, though it would no longer be a traditional Toronto. For the rye whiskey, aim for a robust, high-proof option that can stand up to the Fernet's intensity for the best results, as a weaker rye may get lost.