How to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned: Step-by-Step Instructions

Welcome to our blog on how to make a smoked old fashioned drink, the classic cocktail that has stood the test of time. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist, with years of experience crafting exquisite beverages, or just starting out in the world of bartending, eager to explore the realm of flavor and technique, learning how to master the art of concocting this timeless elixir is an essential skill that will elevate your cocktail game to new heights. In this comprehensive blog post, we will guide you through the process of creating a perfect smoked old fashioned with one of the best smoked old fashioned recipes, from carefully selecting the right tools and ingredients to a detailed step-by-step guidance. So, grab your favorite whiskey, ready your smoker, and get ready to embark on a delightful journey of taste and sophistication.

What is an Old Fashioned?

An old fashioned is a cocktail made with whiskey, bitters, sugar and water. It is one of the oldest known cocktails, dating back to the 1800s. The drink is usually stirred or muddled in an old-fashioned glass filled with ice cubes. Traditionally it was served as a shot of whiskey over ice but can now be made with various spirits like bourbon, rye or even brandy. The drink is often garnished with an orange slice, cherry or citrus peel. Many recipes have evolved over the years to include additional ingredients such as syrup, absinthe and luxardo maraschino liqueur.

Why Add Smoke to Your Old Fashioned?

Adding smoke to your old fashioned introduces a captivating and sophisticated element to the cocktail. The smoky flavor enhances the complexity of the drink, elevating it to a whole new level. It adds depth and richness to the traditional recipe, enticing the palate with a unique and memorable twist. The smoky aroma and taste complement the whiskey, bitters, and sweeteners, creating a harmonious blend of flavors. This sensory experience engages both the taste buds and the eyes, making the drinking experience more enjoyable and memorable. By incorporating smoke into your old fashioned, you not only create a cocktail but also craft an extraordinary and sophisticated drinking experience.

Tools and Ingredients Needed to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned

To make a smokey old fashion, you'll need a few essential tools and ingredients:

• Whiskey: Choose a high-quality whiskey that suits your taste preferences. The classic choice is bourbon, but you can also experiment with rye whiskey or other variations.
• Bitters: Angostura bitters are commonly used in an Old Fashioned, but you can also explore different bitters flavors like orange or cherry to add a unique twist.
• Sweetener: Traditional old fashioned recipes call for a sugar cube or simple syrup. Experiment with different sweeteners like maple syrup or honey to add depth to your cocktail.
• Orange Peel: This citrus garnish adds a vibrant aroma and enhances the flavor profile of the drink.
• Ice: Use large ice cubes or spheres to chill your cocktail without diluting it too quickly.
• Mixing Glass: A sturdy mixing glass is essential for combining the whiskey, bitters, and sweetener.
• Bar Spoon: A long-handled spoon is used for stirring the ingredients together gently.
• Cocktail Strainer: This tool helps separate the liquid from the ice and any other ingredients used during the mixing process.
• Smoking Device: To add the smoky element, you'll need a smoking device such as a handheld smoker or a smoking gun. These tools help ignite the wood chips or herbs to infuse the cocktail with a smoky flavor.
• Wood Chips or Herbs: Choose wood chips or herbs like rosemary, thyme, or cinnamon sticks to create the smoke. Experiment with different flavors to find your favorite combination.

How to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned with Detailed Steps?

Making a smoked old fashioned is a delightful process that involves a few detailed steps. Here's a smoked old fashioned recipe along with the step-by-step guide to help you create this captivating cocktail:

1. Gather your tools and materials: You'll need whiskey, bitters, sweetener, orange peel, ice, a mixing glass, a bar spoon, a cocktail strainer, a smoking device, and wood chips or herbs.
2. Prepare your glass: Take a rocks glass and add a large ice cube or sphere to chill the glass.
3. Measure and pour: In a mixing glass, measure 2 ounces of your chosen whiskey, then add a sugar cube or half an ounce of simple syrup. Add two or three dashes of bitters to the mix.
4. Stir gently: Use a bar spoon to stir the ingredients together gently. Stir for about 30 seconds to ensure proper mixing and chilling.
5. Strain into the prepared glass: Use a cocktail strainer to strain the mixture into the rocks glass with the ice cube or sphere.
6. How to smoke an old fashioned: Take your cocktail smoker kit and fill it with wood chips or herbs of your choice. Light the chips or herbs and gently blow out the flame, allowing the smoke to billow. Place the smoking device over the cocktail glass and let the smoke infuse the cocktail for about 10-15 seconds.
7. Garnish and serve: Take an orange peel and express the oils by squeezing it over the glass. Rub the peel along the rim of the glass to release additional aroma. Drop the peel into the glass as a garnish.

Final thoughts

In summary, the creation of a smoked old fashioned is a skillful pursuit that beautifully blends the timeless sophistication of this classic cocktail with the enticing allure of smoky flavors. By equipping yourself with the necessary tools and ingredients, crafting a smoked Old Fashioned can become a delightful and effortless journey for anyone. Moreover, by diligently following the meticulously outlined steps in this blog, you will be able to confidently produce a refined and unforgettable libation in the comfort of your own home.