Tyler James The smoked old fashioned is a classic cocktail with a modern twist. It starts with a base of bourbon or whiskey, which is then infused with smoke using a handheld smoker or a smoking box. This gives the drink a rich and complex flavor profile that is both smoky and sweet. The smoke is balanced by the addition of simple syrup and bitters, which add depth and complexity to the cocktail. The result is a sophisticated and flavorful drink that is perfect for sipping on a cozy evening.
Smoked Old Fashioned
- Total Time: 5 minutes
- Yield: 1 cocktail 1x
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 tsp simple syrup
- 3–4 dashes bitters
- Orange peel (garnish)
Instructions
- Pour the simple syrup in a mixing glass and add a few dashes of bitters
- Add ice cubes to the mixing glass.
- Pour in bourbon and stir until the glass is cold.
- Pour over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- Smoke the old fashioned in the glass (see notes)
- Rub the orange peel around the rim of the glass, then drop it inside.
Notes
Use a good bourbon. It doesn’t get very diluted so you will taste it.
Experiment with different types of bitters. Walnut bitters work very well.
Instead of simple syrup, you can use a 1/2 tsp granulated sugar and a 1/2 tsp of water.
Use hardwood chips such as hickory, oak, or apple to smoke your cocktail. Soft woods such as cedar or pine don’t tend to have the best odor.
There are several different methods of smoking the glass. By far the easiest is the wooden lid with the mesh to hold the wood chips.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
The origins of the old fashioned cocktail can be traced back to the early 1800s, when it was first made with a combination of sugar, water, bitters, and whiskey or brandy. Over the years, the recipe has evolved to include different types of alcohol and various flavorings, including the addition of smoke.
The smoked old fashioned is a relatively new addition to the cocktail scene, but it has quickly gained popularity among whiskey and cocktail enthusiasts. The smoky flavor adds a unique dimension to the classic drink, making it a favorite among those who appreciate bold and complex flavors.
To make a smoked old fashioned, you will need a few key ingredients: bourbon or whiskey, simple syrup, bitters, and a smoking tool. The smoking tool can be a handheld smoker or a smoking box, which infuses the alcohol with smoke using wood chips or other smoking agents.
To make the cocktail, start by adding a few dashes of bitters to a rocks glass. Next, add a spoonful of simple syrup and a splash of water, and stir to combine. Add ice to the glass, and then pour in 2 ounces of bourbon or whiskey.
Using a handheld smoker or smoking box, smoke the cocktail for about 30 seconds to infuse it with the smoky flavor. Once the cocktail is sufficiently smoked, give it a quick stir to ensure that the flavors are well incorporated. Garnish with a twist of orange peel and a Luxardo cherry, and enjoy!
There are a few different ways to customize the smoked old fashioned to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can experiment with different types of wood chips or smoking agents to achieve different flavors of smoke. You can also adjust the sweetness level by adding more or less simple syrup, or by using a flavored syrup such as maple or honey.
Another way to customize the smoked old fashioned is by using different types of whiskey or bourbon. Each type of whiskey has its own unique flavor profile, ranging from sweet and mellow to bold and spicy. Some popular options for the smoked old fashioned include rye whiskey, bourbon, and single malt scotch.
One of the benefits of the smoked old fashioned is that it is a relatively simple cocktail to make, yet it has a complex and sophisticated flavor profile. This makes it a great choice for entertaining guests or for enjoying on a quiet evening at home.
If you’re looking to take your smoked old fashioned to the next level, consider experimenting with different garnishes or additional flavorings. For example, you could add a few drops of orange bitters or a splash of maraschino liqueur for added complexity.
In conclusion, the smoked old fashioned is a classic cocktail that has been given a modern twist. With its rich and complex flavor profile, this drink is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate. Whether you’re sipping it at a fancy cocktail bar or enjoying it at home, the smoked old fashioned is a sophisticated and delicious drink that is perfect for any occasion.
