Are you tired of the same old cocktails at every party?
Do you love an old fashioned, but you want to learn how to make one so tasty and unique that all your friends talk to each other about how amazing your recipe is?
Then look no further than the Smoked Old Fashioned.
This classic cocktail has been given a modern twist with the addition of smoke.
Yep, that’s right. Smoke. It adds depth and complexity to this already delicious drink.
In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the perfect old fashioned – from ingredients and the steps to the tips and tricks that will take your drink to the next level.
The Smoke Old Fashioned: Is It Right For You?
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk about what makes a Smoked Old Fashioned so special.
A classic Old Fashioned is made with bourbon, sugar, bitters, and a citrus twist. But allowing a little smoke to sit on top of the drink for a while elevates this traditional drink to a whole new level.
The smokiness gives the drink depth and complexity, moving it from the ordinary to the extraordinary.
But is smoked old fashioned the right drink for you?
If you’re a fan of bourbon, classic cocktails, and old fashioneds, then the answer is yes. And chances are, you’ll love the smokier version.
It is a great choice for whiskey lovers who want to experiment with new flavors without straying too far from their comfort zone.
Plus, the smoking process is surprisingly easy and adds a fun, interactive element to cocktail-making that your guests are sure to love.
Smoked Old Fashioned: Ingredients
To make a Smoked Old Fashioned, you need a few key ingredients:
Bourbon
The key to a good Smoked Old Fashioned is choosing the right bourbon. Look for a bourbon that you enjoy – something smooth and has a good amount of sweetness that pairs perfectly with smokey notes of the drink. Some good options include Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, Knob Creek, or Woodford Reserve.
Bitters
Bitters are essential to the classic old fashioned recipe simply because they add a little spice and bitterness to the cocktail. Angostura bitters are the classic choice for an old fashioned, but feel free to experiment with different flavors to find your favorite.
Sugar
To add a touch of sweetness to the drink, use sugar cubes or simple syrup – made with equal parts sugar and water, heated until the sugar dissolves. You can make your own simple syrup at home, or buy it pre-made at your local grocery store.
Orange Peel
The orange peel adds a citrusy aroma to the cocktail, and a touch of sweetness. Make sure to use fresh orange, and peel off just the top layer of skin – the white pith can make the cocktail bitter.
Wood Chips For Smoking
To smoke the cocktail, you’ll need wood chips. Applewood or Hickory are good options. You can find wood chips at your local hardware store or online.
How To Make A Smoked Old Fashioned
Now that you have all your ingredients, let’s make a Smoked Old Fashioned.
Step 1: Prepare The Mix.
Start by adding 2 ounces of bourbon, a quarter ounce of simple syrup, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters into a mixing glass. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled (about 60 revolutions). Then strain the cocktail into a glass with clear ice.
Step 2: SmokeThe Cocktail
Next comes the exciting part: smoking the drink.
To do this, you’ll need a smoking gun or a food-safe smoking chamber. Add a handful of wood chips to the chamber, and light them with a lighter. Hold it over the glass, and let the smoke fill the glass for 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Add The Orange Peel
Finally, take a fresh orange peel and express the oils over the smoke. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass, drop the orange peel in, and then serve.
Tips To Get Your Smoked Old Fashioned Right
While the recipe for the smoked old fashioned is relatively simple, there are a few tips and tricks that will help you make the best possible drink:
1. Use Good Quality Bourbon
Since bourbon is the star of the show in this drink, it is important to choose a high-quality brand. After all, the quality of the bourbon you use will make a big difference in the final taste of the cocktail – choose the bourbon you enjoy.
2. Don’t Overdo The Smoke
While the smokey flavor is what makes a smoked old fashioned special, be sure not to overdo it. You can start with a small amount of smoke and adjust to taste.
3. Experiment With Different Bitters
Although Angostura bitters are the classic choice for an old fashioned, there are many other flavors available that can add a unique twist to the drink. Try different varieties to find your favorite.
4. Choose The Right Wood
The type of wood you use to smoke your cocktail can make a big difference in the final flavor. Some popular options include hickory, applewood, and cherrywood. Try experimenting with different types of wood to find your favorite.
5. Try Different Garnishes
A smoked Old Fashioned can be garnished in a variety of ways. Try using a smoked cinnamon stick or a sprig of rosemary for added flavor and visual appeal.
Smoked Old Fashioned Q&As
How Do I Smoke Bourbon?
To smoke bourbon for a Smoked Old Fashioned, you can use a smoking gun or a traditional smoker. If you’re using a smoking gun, simply fill the gun chamber with wood chips and point it towards the bourbon while you shake or stir the cocktail.
If you’re using a smoker, place the bourbon in a glass and cover the glass with a lid. Then, fill the smoker with wood chips and light them. Once the smoker is filled with smoke, place it over the glass and let the bourbon smoke for a few minutes.
What’s the Best Bourbon for a Smoked Old Fashioned?
High-quality bourbon with a rich, nuanced taste is ideal for a Smoked Old Fashioned. Maker’s Mark, Buffalo Trace, and Woodford Reserve are a few of the well-liked bourbons used in a Smoked Old Fashioned.
What’s the Best Ice for a Smoked Old Fashioned?
For a Smoked Old Fashioned, a big, single cube or spherical ice works best. This kind of ice will melt gradually, keeping the drink cool without diluting it too much. If you don’t have a big ice mold, you may alternatively use ice cubes or crushed ice; just filter the drink to get rid of any ice chips before serving.
What Bitters Should I Use?
The bitters you use for a Smoked Old Fashioned can vary depending on your personal preference. However, some popular options include Angostura bitters, orange bitters, and Peychaud’s bitters. If you’re new to making cocktails, start with a classic Angostura bitters and experiment with different bitters as you become more comfortable with the recipe. Remember, a little bit of bitters goes a long way in a Smoked Old Fashioned.
Start Smoking Your Old Fashioned Now!
There you have it, folks! A simple recipe for an intricate and delectable drink. This classic cocktail with a smoky twist requires attention to detail and quality ingredients to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
By selecting a high-quality bourbon, using a smoking gun or traditional smoker to infuse the smoky flavor, and choosing the right bitters and garnishes, you can make a truly impressive Smoked Old Fashioned that will leave a lasting impression on your guests.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different wood chips, bourbons, and bitters to find the perfect combination for your taste preferences. With some practice and patience, you’ll be able to create the perfect Smoked Old Fashioned every time and become the go-to mixologist for all your future gatherings.
