In the world of mixology, few cocktails hold the same revered status as the Old Fashioned—a true classic that has stood the test of time. But what happens when you take this beloved libation and infuse it with a touch of smoky sophistication? Enter the Smoked Old Fashioned—a modern twist on a timeless favorite that promises to elevate your drinking experience to new heights. Join us as we explore the artistry and craftsmanship behind this flavor-packed cocktail.
A Fusion of Tradition and Innovation:
At its core, the Old Fashioned is a simple yet elegant concoction, typically consisting of bourbon or rye whiskey, sugar, bitters, and a twist of citrus. The Smoked Old Fashioned builds upon this foundation by incorporating the mesmerizing aromas and flavors of smoked wood, adding a layer of complexity and depth to the drink.
Tasting Notes: The Smoked Old Fashioned is a masterful balance of bold whiskey, subtle sweetness from the simple syrup, and aromatic complexity from the bitters and smoked wood. With each sip, you’ll experience a symphony of flavors that dance across your palate, leaving a lingering impression of smoky sophistication.
Serving Suggestions: This refined cocktail is perfect for sipping and savoring on special occasions or when you simply want to indulge in a moment of luxury. Serve it as a pre-dinner aperitif to whet the appetite, or enjoy it as a post-dinner digestif to unwind and reflect on the day’s events.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Bourbon or Rye Whiskey
- 1 Sugar Cube
- 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Orange Peel (for garnish)
- Rosemary (for garnish)
- Ice
- Smoking Wood Chips (such as oak or hickory)
Method:
- Begin by preparing your smoking apparatus. This can be a smoking gun, a smoker box, or even a DIY setup using a smoking gun and a glass dome.
- Place a handful of wood chips in the smoking chamber and ignite them, allowing the smoke to fill the chamber.
- In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, simple syrup, and bitters.
- Add ice to the mixing glass and stir gently until well-chilled.
- Place the mixing glass over the smoking chamber, trapping the smoke inside.
- Allow the cocktail to infuse with the smoke for 30-60 seconds, depending on your preference for intensity.
- Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice.
- Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink, then garnish with the peel.
- Light Rosemary to give off scent only. Blow out fast to stop the burning and garnish drink.
The Smoked Old Fashioned is more than just a drink—it’s an experience that engages the senses and transports you to a realm of refined taste and sophistication. Whether you’re a seasoned whiskey aficionado or new to the world of craft cocktails, this flavor-packed libation invites you to explore the intersection of tradition and innovation in mixology.
We hope you enjoyed discovering the art of the Smoked Old Fashioned and feel inspired to shake up your own version at home. Share your thoughts and experiences in the comments below, and be sure to spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and fellow cocktail enthusiasts.
Here’s to raising a glass to the timeless allure of the Smoked Old Fashioned—cheers!