How to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned: A Smoky Twist on a Classic

Table of Contents

• What is a Smoked Old Fashioned?
• Ingredients for a Smoked Old Fashioned
• Equipment Needed
• Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Smoked Old Fashioned
• Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Smoked Old Fashioned

What is a Smoked Old Fashioned?

A Smoked Old Fashioned is an elevated version of the classic Old Fashioned cocktail. It infuses the drink with a smoky flavor profile by exposing it to wood smoke. This adds a layer of complexity and depth to the already robust taste of bourbon, bitters, and sugar. It’s a perfect cocktail for those who love a little adventure in their drinks.

Ingredients for a Smoked Old Fashioned

• 2 ounces bourbon: The foundation of the cocktail. Choose a bourbon you enjoy.
• 1/2 ounce simple syrup: Balances the bitterness of the bitters.
• 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters: Adds complexity and depth of flavor.
• Orange peel: For garnish and to express oils over the drink.
• Wood chips: Hickory, apple, or cherry wood chips work well.
• Ice: Large ice cubes are preferred for slow dilution.

Equipment Needed

• Old fashioned glass: For serving the cocktail.
• Mixing glass: For stirring the ingredients.
• Bar spoon: For stirring the cocktail.
• Smoking device: A smoker, smoking gun, or even a heat gun can be used.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Smoked Old Fashioned

1. Prepare your glass: Fill your old fashioned glass with ice and let it chill while you prepare the cocktail.
2. Combine ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine bourbon, simple syrup, and bitters.
3. Stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds, or until the drink is well chilled.
4. Smoke: While stirring, start smoking your wood chips. Once the smoke is thick, carefully introduce it into the mixing glass, covering it with a lid or plate to trap the smoke. Let it sit for about 30 seconds.
5. Strain: Strain the cocktail into the chilled old fashioned glass.
6. Garnish: Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Smoked Old Fashioned

• Experiment with woods: Different woods impart different flavors. Try hickory for a smoky bacon-like taste, apple for a sweeter profile, or cherry for a fruity note.
• Ice matters: Large ice cubes melt slower, resulting in a less diluted drink.
• Bitters balance: Adjust the number of dashes of bitters to your taste preference.
• Smoke intensity: Control the smoking time to achieve your desired level of smokiness.
• Garnish: A Luxardo cherry can be added as a garnish for an extra touch of sweetness.

By following these steps and experimenting with different woods and ingredients, you can create a truly exceptional Smoked Old Fashioned that will impress your guests.

Choosing the Right Wood Chips and Making Simple Syrup

Choosing the Right Wood Chips

The type of wood chips you use can dramatically impact the flavor of your Smoked Old Fashioned. Here are a few popular options:

• Hickory: Offers a smoky, bacon-like flavor. It’s a bold choice that pairs well with rich bourbons.
• Apple: Provides a sweet and fruity smoke, adding complexity without overpowering the drink.
• Cherry: Similar to apple, but with a slightly tart and fruity profile.
• Oak: A classic choice for aging whiskey, oak wood chips can add depth and complexity to your cocktail.

Remember, these are just starting points. You can experiment with different woods or even create your own blends.

Making Your Own Simple Syrup

Making simple syrup at home is easy and ensures you have complete control over the ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup granulated sugar
• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Combine sugar and water in a small saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, stirring until the sugar dissolves completely.
3. Remove from heat and let cool completely before storing in an airtight container.

For a flavored simple syrup, you can add herbs, spices, or fruits to the saucepan before boiling. Some popular options include vanilla bean, lavender, or citrus peels.

FAQ’S

Q: Can I use a different type of liquor for a Smoked Old Fashioned? A: While bourbon is the traditional choice, you can experiment with other types of whiskey, such as rye or scotch. Experiment and find your favorite combination.

Q: How strong is a Smoked Old Fashioned? A: The strength of a Smoked Old Fashioned primarily depends on the bourbon you use. Most bourbons are around 40-45% ABV, so the cocktail will have a similar strength.

Q: Can I use a different sweetener instead of simple syrup? A: Yes, you can use agave nectar, honey, or even maple syrup as a substitute for simple syrup. Each will impart a different flavor profile.

Smoking and Flavor

Q: What if I don’t have a smoker or smoking gun? A: While a smoker or smoking gun is ideal, you can try using a heat gun to infuse smoke into your cocktail. Be cautious not to overheat the drink.

Q: Can I reuse wood chips? A: It’s generally not recommended to reuse wood chips as they may impart an off-flavor to your drink.

Q: How long should I smoke the cocktail? A: The smoking time depends on your desired level of smokiness. Start with 30 seconds and adjust to your taste.

Tips and Tricks

Q: What other garnishes can I use besides orange peel? A: You can experiment with different citrus peels, such as lemon or grapefruit. A cherry or a maraschino cherry can also be a nice addition.

Q: How can I make my Smoked Old Fashioned less strong? A: To reduce the strength, you can add a larger amount of ice or use a weaker bourbon. You can also increase the amount of simple syrup or add a splash of water.

Q: Can I make a Smoked Old Fashioned in advance? A: While it’s best to enjoy a Smoked Old Fashioned fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble the drink just before serving. Avoid smoking the cocktail ahead of time as the smoke flavor will dissipate.