Smoked Old Fashioned

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Nothing elevates your cocktail game like a Smoked Old Fashioned. That dark essence of charred wood adds the perfect warmth and depth to this modern twist to a classic cocktail.

This Smoked Old Fashioned is a vibe. It’s bold and resolute, yet warm and inviting, just like a freshly lit camp fire. It’s perfect for the board room when you’re on the brink of closing a major deal or late night in your living room, as you catch up with an old friend. No matter the time, place or occasion, this Smoked Old Fashioned recipe will leave you satisfied.

Why Smoke an Old Fashioned?

Smoking Cocktails isn’t new and it’s starting to become even more prevalent in the fine cocktail space. Smoking an Old Fashioned, blankets the whiskey with a spicy, warm essence that adds weight and depth to the cocktail, while also creating visual appeal.

The Whiskey of Choice

To make a good Old Fashioned, you need the right type of whiskey. Out of the six types of regulated whiskeys in the U.S., two are especially good for Old Fashioned – Bourbon and Rye.

To be labeled as bourbon, the spirit needs to be produced in the U.S. and its base must be at least 51% corn, with a final proof between 80-125. And it must only have been aged at least 4 years in charred oak barrels (if less than 4 yrs, it must be labeled explicitly on the bottle), according to current U.S. law.

Rye also has particular regulations that have to be followed to carry the title, but they differ slightly from bourbon. To start with, rye can originate in other countries outside of the U.S., but the proof of the spirit can be as high as 160 (80-160 proof). Just like bourbon, rye needs to be aged in charred oak barrels, and must have at least 51% rye makeup in the mash – but unlike bourbon (which can only have water added to the spirit), rye is allowed to have up to 2.5% of the volume be “harmless coloring or flavoring” according to U.S. regulations.

Regarding the flavor profiles of bourbon and rye – bourbon tends to be just slightly sweeter and spicier, with notes of chocolate, vanilla and caramel. Rye is a bit more peppery in taste with notes of oak, grass and campfire, which make it slightly deeper and spicier than bourbon.

But both are great spirits for a Smoked Old Fashioned, so go with your preference. My favorite brands are: Knob Creek, Maker’s Mark, and Woodinville Whiskey.

Smoke of Choice

While there are many different woods you can use in your cocktail smoker, in my opinion, the two best ones are: cherry wood and oak wood.

Cherry wood is slightly sweet and mild, so it’ll be perfect for those that don’t want an overpowering smoke essence in their drink.

Whereas oak wood is hearty and robust, adding a bold and spicy flavor that can’t be ignored.

The Ingredients for a Smoked Old Fashioned

Scroll down to the recipe card for exact measurements and directions.

• Woodinville Whiskey (or other fine bourbon/rye)
  • (Knob Creek, Maker’s Mark, Woodinville Whiskey)
• Angostura Bitters
• Sugar Cube
• Water
• Maple Syrup (dark)
• Orange Peel
• Rosemary Sprig
• Maraschino Cherries
• Clear Ice Sphere

The Equipment Needed

• Fancy whiskey glass
• Cocktail smoker

Craft the Old Fashioned

Start with adding the sugar cube, 3 dashes of Angostura Bitters, 1 teaspoon of maple syrup, and half a teaspoon of water into your glass. Muddle until sugar is mostly dissolved.

Then take your orange peel and squeeze over the muddled solution to release the orange essence. Then swirl the peel around the rim of the glass and add into the mixture.

Add your ice sphere and gently pour your whiskey into the glass – giving it a quick stir.

Smoke the Old Fashioned

Using your cocktail smoker, let the smoke fill the glass and let it sit for 1 minute for the smoke to completely infuse with the old fashioned.

Meanwhile, using your cooking torch, char your sprig of rosemary until it starts to smoke.

Putting It All Together

Then remove the smoker top, lay the sprig of rosemary on top of your drink – and follow up with a single maraschino cherry.

And there you have it – a sophisticated Smoked Old Fashioned.

How To Drink This Smoked Old Fashioned

This Smoked Old Fashioned commands your respect – which means you have to take small gentle sips, letting this liquid gold and it’s rich flavors coat your entire mouth. It’s the only way to give the drink it’s proper dues.

But however you drink this Smoked Old Fashioned, try not to drink it alone. It’s simply too good to sip by yourself. This is the type of drink that fosters an environment of close, trusted conversation. Find a good drinking partner, and make deals, share life stories, and discuss topics du jour – courtesy of this elegant Smoked Old Fashioned recipe.

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