Smoked Old Fashioned: An Elevated Classic with a Smoky Touch

When it comes to timeless cocktails that exude sophistication and depth, the Old Fashioned stands unrivaled. This quintessential whiskey cocktail has been a staple in bars and lounges for over a century, admired for its simplicity and robust flavor profile. But what if you could elevate this classic to new heights? Enter the Smoked Old Fashioned—an innovative twist that infuses a smoky essence into the traditional recipe, adding complexity and a sensory experience that’s both captivating and indulgent.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the rich history of the Old Fashioned, delve into the art of adding a smoky touch, and provide step-by-step instructions to craft the perfect Smoked Old Fashioned at home. Whether you’re a whiskey aficionado or a cocktail enthusiast eager to impress, this article will equip you with everything you need to know about this elevated classic.

A Brief History of the Old Fashioned

The Origin of a Timeless Cocktail

The Old Fashioned’s roots trace back to the early 19th century, making it one of the oldest known cocktails. Originally referred to simply as a “whiskey cocktail,” it was a straightforward mix of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters. The term “Old Fashioned” emerged in the late 1800s as patrons began requesting their cocktails made the “old-fashioned way,” favoring the traditional preparation over the emerging, more elaborate concoctions of the time.

Enduring Popularity

The Old Fashioned has endured through Prohibition, survived the cocktail dark ages of the mid-20th century, and experienced a renaissance in the modern craft cocktail movement. Its simplicity, elegance, and the ability to highlight the character of the base spirit have solidified its place as a bar essential.

The Art of Smoking Cocktails

Why Add Smoke?

Adding a smoky element to cocktails has become a popular trend among mixologists seeking to enhance flavor profiles and create a multisensory experience. Smoke introduces aromatic complexity, depth, and a touch of drama to the presentation. In the case of the Old Fashioned, smoke complements the whiskey’s natural notes, such as caramel, oak, and spice, elevating the cocktail without overpowering it.

Methods of Smoking

There are several ways to introduce smoke into your cocktail:

Smoked Glass: Infuse the serving glass with smoke before pouring the cocktail.
Smoked Ice: Use ice that has been infused with smoke.
Smoked Ingredients: Incorporate smoked syrups or bitters.
Smoking Gun: Utilize a handheld smoker to infuse smoke directly into the cocktail.

For this guide, we’ll focus on smoking the glass, as it’s accessible and effective for home bartenders.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The Essentials

To craft the perfect Smoked Old Fashioned, gather the following ingredients:

Whiskey: 2 ounces of quality bourbon or rye whiskey.
Sugar Cube or Simple Syrup: 1 sugar cube or 0.5 ounces of simple syrup.
Angostura Bitters: 2-3 dashes.
Orange Peel: For zest and garnish.
Ice: A large ice cube or sphere is ideal.

Smoking Materials

Wood Chips: Cherry, apple, or oak chips work well.
Culinary Torch or Lighter: For igniting the wood chips.
Cloche or Glass Dome: To trap the smoke over the glass. If unavailable, a large jar or overturned glass bowl can suffice.

Equipment

Rocks Glass: The traditional serving glass.
Bar Spoon: For stirring.
Muddler: If using a sugar cube.
Jigger: For accurate measurements.
Strainer: If mixing in a separate glass.
Knife and Cutting Board: For preparing the orange peel.

Crafting the Perfect Smoked Old Fashioned

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Smoked Glass

Place Wood Chips on a Heatproof Surface: Use a small pile of wood chips on a plate or in a smoker tray.
Ignite the Wood Chips: Carefully light the wood chips using a culinary torch or lighter until they begin to smolder and produce smoke.
Invert the Glass Over the Smoke: Place your rocks glass upside down over the smoldering chips, trapping the smoke inside. Let it sit for 1-2 minutes to infuse the glass with smoky aroma.

Step 2: Build the Cocktail Base

Add Sugar and Bitters:
- If using a sugar cube, place it in a mixing glass with 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
- Muddle until the sugar dissolves.
- If using simple syrup, combine it with the bitters in the mixing glass.
Add Whiskey:
- Pour 2 ounces of whiskey into the mixing glass.
Stir with Ice:
- Add ice to the mixing glass.
- Stir gently for about 20-30 seconds to chill and dilute slightly.

Step 3: Assemble the Cocktail

Retrieve the Smoked Glass:
- Turn the glass upright, allowing any remaining smoke to linger inside.
Add Ice to the Glass:
- Place a large ice cube or sphere into the smoked glass.
Strain the Cocktail:
- Pour the stirred mixture over the ice in your glass.

Step 4: Garnish

Express the Orange Peel:
- Cut a thick strip of orange peel, avoiding too much pith.
- Gently twist and squeeze the peel over the cocktail to release essential oils.
- Rub the peel around the rim of the glass for added aroma.
Add the Peel to the Glass:
- Drop the peel into the cocktail as a garnish.

Tips for Success

Choose the Right Whiskey: A high-quality bourbon or rye enhances the cocktail’s depth.
Control the Smoke: Adjust the smoking time to your preference. Longer exposure yields a stronger smoky flavor.
Safety First: Always exercise caution when working with open flames and smoke.
Glass Choice: A heavy-bottomed rocks glass retains the smoke better and provides an authentic experience.

Variations to Explore

Smoked Maple Old Fashioned

Substitute: Replace sugar with 0.5 ounces of pure maple syrup.
Flavor Profile: Adds a rich, sweet complexity that pairs beautifully with smoke.

Smoked Cinnamon Old Fashioned

Addition: Add a cinnamon stick to the smoke source or muddle with the sugar.
Flavor Profile: Introduces warm spice notes, perfect for colder months.

Smoked Mezcal Old Fashioned

Substitute: Replace whiskey with mezcal for an agave-based twist.
Flavor Profile: Enhances the smoky character with mezcal’s natural smokiness.

Chocolate Smoked Old Fashioned

Addition: Add a dash of chocolate bitters.
Flavor Profile: Combines rich chocolate notes with the smoky essence for a decadent treat.

Perfect Pairings: What to Serve with a Smoked Old Fashioned

Appetizers

Charcuterie Board: Cured meats, aged cheeses, and nuts complement the cocktail’s robust flavors.
Smoked Salmon Canapés: Echoes the smoky theme with a touch of elegance.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Earthy flavors harmonize with the whiskey’s depth.

Main Courses

Grilled Steak: The hearty, savory profile pairs perfectly with the cocktail.
Barbecue Ribs: The smoky, sweet glaze resonates with the drink’s smokiness.
Roasted Game Meats: Such as duck or venison, enhancing the rustic experience.

Desserts

Dark Chocolate Cake: The bitterness of dark chocolate complements the whiskey and smoke.
Pecan Pie: Sweet, nutty flavors balance the cocktail’s intensity.
Smoked Cheese Plate: An assortment of smoked cheeses for a savory finale.

Why the Smoked Old Fashioned is an Elevated Classic

Multisensory Experience

The Smoked Old Fashioned engages multiple senses—taste, smell, and sight. The visual of the smoke, the aroma as you lift the glass, and the rich flavors combine to create a memorable experience.

Depth of Flavor

Smoking adds layers of complexity to the traditional Old Fashioned, enhancing the whiskey’s nuances and creating a more sophisticated palate.

Conversation Starter

The process of smoking the cocktail adds an element of theater, making it an impressive choice for entertaining guests or marking special occasions.

Versatility

With various methods to introduce smoke and endless possibilities for flavor variations, the Smoked Old Fashioned offers ample room for personalization and creativity.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of wood for smoking?

Yes, different wood types impart different flavors. Applewood offers a mild, sweet smoke, while hickory provides a stronger, more robust flavor. Experiment to find your preference.

Do I need a special smoker or equipment?

While a handheld smoking gun is convenient, you can achieve excellent results with simple tools like wood chips, a lighter, and a glass dome or bowl.

Is it safe to consume smoke-infused cocktails?

When done properly, smoking cocktails is safe. Ensure you’re using food-grade wood chips and avoid inhaling excessive smoke during preparation.

Can I pre-smoke the whiskey instead of the glass?

Yes, you can smoke the whiskey in a separate container and then use it in your cocktail. This method can intensify the smoky flavor.

What if I don’t have Angostura bitters?

While Angostura bitters are traditional, you can substitute with other aromatic bitters like orange or walnut bitters for a unique twist.

Conclusion

The Smoked Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail; it’s an elevated experience that brings a modern twist to a beloved classic. By infusing smoke into the traditional recipe, you unlock new dimensions of flavor and aroma, transforming a simple drink into an artful creation. Whether you’re looking to impress guests, celebrate a special occasion, or simply savor a sophisticated beverage, the Smoked Old Fashioned delivers on all fronts.

So gather your ingredients, embrace the art of smoking, and indulge in the rich, bold, and smoky delight of a perfectly crafted Smoked Old Fashioned. Cheers to elevating the classics and exploring the depths of flavor in every sip.