How to Make a Smoked Old Fashioned
Mastering the Art of a Smoky Classic Cocktail
The Smoked Old Fashioned breathes new life into the storied classic, the Old Fashioned cocktail. This innovative twist involves adding a smoky flavor to the timeless blend of whiskey, sugar, bitters, and citrus. The smokiness is typically introduced using a smoking gun or by smoking wood chips, creating a sensory experience that's as enticing to the nose as it is to the palate.
Crafting a Smoked Old Fashioned requires attention to detail and an appreciation for the nuances of cocktail-making. The process begins with the foundational elements of the original Old Fashioned: a sugar cube muddled with bitters, and the inclusion of a twist of orange peel to introduce citrus notes. Cocktail enthusiasts then take this base and elevate it by incorporating smoke, infusing the drink with a rich, aromatic complexity that complements the smoothness of the whiskey.
The Smoked Old Fashioned variant encourages experimentation with different types of wood chips, such as hickory or applewood, to achieve varying smoke profiles. The choice of bitters can also be adjusted, with options like smoked chili bitters adding an extra layer of spice and depth. The result is a cocktail that honors its heritage while offering an experiential twist, making the Smoked Old Fashioned a choice for those looking to explore beyond the traditional boundaries of cocktail crafting.
History of the Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned, a cocktail steeped in tradition, has evolved from a simple concoction of spirits, sugar, water, and bitters to a canvas for culinary creativity, incorporating smoky elements that add a new dimension to the classic profile.
Classic vs Smoky Old Fashioned
The Old Fashioned cocktail originated in the early 19th century. It consists of:
Base Spirit: Traditionally bourbon or rye whiskey.
Sweetener: A sugar cube or simple syrup.
Bitters: Primarily Angostura bitters.
Garnish: Often an orange peel or cocktail cherry.
This drink becomes a Smoky Old Fashioned when a smoking technique imparts a savory depth to the cocktail. These variations remain faithful to the core ingredients but embrace the additional, intricate flavor that smoke can offer.
Evolution of Cocktail Smokers
Cocktail smokers have brought a novel method to infuse cocktails with aromatic smoke. They work by burning wood chips or other plant material and channeling the smoke into the drink's vessel. The rise in smoking cocktails caters to a sensory experience where both the taste and the smell are enriched. Over time, professionals and hobbyists alike have adopted this technique, making smoked cocktails a common sight in bars and homes where enthusiasts strive to elevate the cocktail experience.
Selecting Your Whiskey
The foundation of a Smoked Old Fashioned is the whiskey choice, as it significantly influences the cocktail's flavor profile. The selection between bourbon and rye, as well as the brand, can greatly affect the smoky drink experience.
Bourbon or Rye?
Bourbon whiskey is known for its sweeter, full-bodied flavor derived from its corn-dominated mash bill. It imparts vanilla and caramel notes, which complement the smoky aspect of this cocktail. On the other hand, rye whiskey provides a spicier and fruitier taste, with a drier finish that can add complexity to the Smoked Old Fashioned. The choice between bourbon and rye should reflect the drinker's preference for a richer sweetness or a sharper spice.
Top Brands for Smoked Old Fashioned
When crafting a Smoked Old Fashioned, one can consider these top brands to ensure a high-quality base:
Knob Creek: With robust flavors and a hint of smoke, Knob Creek's bourbons offer a complement to the cocktail's smoky character.
Buffalo Trace: Recognized for its smooth profile, Buffalo Trace bourbon serves a balanced sweetness that melds well with the smoked aspect.
Bulleit: Both Bulleit bourbon and rye are high in rye content, offering a bold spice that can stand up against the bolder smoke flavors.
Four Roses Small Batch: This bourbon is known for its mellow spirit and works well for those seeking a smoother Smoked Old Fashioned.
Woodford Reserve: As a versatile choice, Woodford Reserve brings forward rich and full flavors that make a rounded and enjoyable smoky cocktail.
Choosing these brands ensures that the whiskey will not be overshadowed by the smoking process, but rather, the smoky notes will enhance the depth and complexity of the whiskey's inherent flavors.
Preparation Essentials
Crafting a Smoked Old Fashioned requires attention to detail, from the selection of tools to the type of ice used. Each choice impacts the overall flavor and presentation of the cocktail.
Tools and Equipment
The right equipment is vital to successfully create a Smoked Old Fashioned. A smoker, such as a smoking gun, is essential for infusing the drink with a smokey flavor. Additionally, one needs a bar spoon for stirring ingredients together and possibly a cocktail shaker if combining the elements before smoking. Here is a list of the basic tools:
Smoking gun or similar smoking device
Bar spoon
Cocktail shaker (optional, for pre-smoking mixing)
Glassware Choices
The classic choice for a Smoked Old Fashioned is a rocks glass, also known as a lowball glass, which is sturdy and offers a wide opening to release the drink's aromatics while allowing for adequate smoke infusion.
Standard rocks glass
Ice: Quality and Shape
Ice significantly affects the dilution and temperature of a Smoked Old Fashioned. One should use large, clear ice cubes that melt slowly, maintaining the integrity of the whiskey. Use a single ice cube or ice sphere for best results as they offer minimal surface area, reducing dilution.
Large, clear ice cube or sphere
Ingredients Breakdown
A smoked Old Fashioned cocktail requires precision in selecting its components. The quality and type of ingredients play a crucial role in the balance and depth of flavor of the drink.
Sweeteners: From Simple to Complex
Traditional Old Fashioned cocktails use a sugar cube as a sweetener, which is muddled at the bottom of the glass. However, for a smoked Old Fashioned, one can opt for simple syrup or a rich demerara syrup for a deeper flavor. A 1:1 ratio of water to sugar—preferably raw sugar—is recommended for the syrup.
Simple Syrup: Equal parts water and white sugar.
Demerara Syrup: A richer alternative made with demerara or raw sugar.
Choosing the Right Bitters
Bitters are key in crafting the drink's complexity. While Angostura bitters are classic, one can experiment with smoky or spicy variants to complement the smoked aspect. A few dashes of a bitters like Hella Bitters Smoked Chili Bitters can enhance the cocktail with a subtle spiciness and smokiness.
Classic Bitters: Angostura is the traditional choice.
Smoky Bitters: Options like smoked chili bitters add a unique twist.
Garnish: The Final Touch
Garnishes contribute both to the aroma and visual appeal of the smoked Old Fashioned. An orange peel twisted over the glass releases oils that blend with the smoke's scent. As for the cherry, one can choose between a classic cocktail cherry or opt for a more luxurious Luxardo cherry. The latter offers a richer taste and texture which can elevate the cocktail.
Orange Peel: Essential for aroma and citrus notes.
Cocktail Cherry: Standard garnish, sweet and colorful.
Luxardo Cherry: A gourmet choice for a more indulgent experience.
These carefully selected ingredients, when combined with a quality bourbon and the right smoking technique, create a smoked Old Fashioned that stands out with its layered flavors and sophisticated presentation.
The Smoky Twist
Innovating the traditional Old Fashioned cocktail involves the introduction of a distinctive smoke element. This smoky layer adds depth and a sensory experience that transforms the classic drink into a modern, sophisticated Smoked Old Fashioned. The key to a successful smoky twist lies in the selection of wood chips and smoking technique.
Selecting Wood Chips and Smokers
The selection of wood chips is crucial, as each type imparts a unique flavor profile to the Smoked Old Fashioned cocktail. Here are the most commonly used options:
Hickory: Offers strong, hearty smokiness.
Oak: Provides a medium smoke with a hint of sweetness.
Apple: Delivers a mild, fruity smoke.
Pecan: Gives a delicate, nutty smoke.
Using a cocktail smoker, such as a smoking gun, allows the bartender to tightly control the infusion of smoky flavor. It's essential to choose quality wood chips that are compatible with the device chosen for smoking the cocktail.
Technique: Infusing the Smoky Flavor
The method of smoking the cocktail can vary, but the goal is always to capture the essence of the smoke without overpowering the drink. Here is a basic guideline for infusing smoke using a smoking gun:
Prepare the Old Fashioned in a glass, omitting ice for now.
Place the wood chips into the smoking gun chamber.
Turn on the smoke gun and light the wood chips until they smolder, not flame.
Direct the smoke into the glass, capturing it with a lid or coaster.
Allow the smoke to infuse for approximately 2 minutes, swirling occasionally.
Uncover the glass, add ice, and serve immediately to enjoy the full smoky effect.
Infusing smoke into an Old Fashioned enhances the cocktail experience, offering an enticing aroma that complements the rich blend of bourbon, bitters, and citrus typically found in a traditional Old Fashioned. Whether it's for a festive Christmas Old Fashioned or an elegant evening drink, the smoky twist promises to intrigue the senses.
Step-by-Step Recipe
An exquisite smoked old fashioned combines a sweet and citrus base with the complex notes of smoke, resulting in a cocktail that tantalizes the senses. This section will guide the reader through crafting the base, introducing a smoky essence, and presenting the drink with finesse.
Constructing the Base
One begins by placing a sugar cube in a lowball glass, dousing it with two dashes of angostura bitters and optionally, a dash of orange bitters for a citrusy kick. If raw sugar or simple syrup is preferred, it should be mixed with a splash of water to achieve the desired sweetness. Next, the glass welcomes ice cubes, providing the foundation for the cocktail.
The Art of Smoking
The heart of this smoked old fashioned lies in imparting the smoke flavor. This is achieved by filling the glass with smoke using a smoking gun, topped with wood chips such as hickory or cherry for a unique flavor profile. The glass should be covered to allow the smoke to infuse for around two minutes, enveloping the drink in its characteristic aroma.
Presentation and Serving
Once the base is saturated with the smoky bouquet, the drink is finished by adding a generous portion of bourbon. The smoked old fashioned is then stirred to integrate all flavors. A garnish of an orange twist or a cinnamon stick adds the final touch, enhancing both the visual presentation and the bouquet. The cocktail should be served immediately to ensure the guest enjoys the full spectrum of its bold and nuanced taste.
Customizing Your Drink
Customizing a Smoked Old Fashioned allows one to explore various flavor profiles and adaptations, whether for personal preference or to suit different seasons like fall or winter.
Alternative Ingredients and Variations
One can substitute the traditional sugar element with alternatives such as maple syrup, adding a seasonal twist appropriate for fall, or honey for a smoother sweetness. Brown sugar, on the other hand, can provide a more robust flavor. Spirits like gin, cognac, or brandy serve as excellent bases for those who prefer a variation from the classic bourbon. Mezcal introduces a distinctly smoky profile that can complement or substitute the smoke infusion step.
A specific recipe variation, the Maple Old Fashioned, uses maple syrup instead of sugar. Here's a brief outline:
Sweetener: Replace sugar/simple syrup with the same amount of maple syrup.
Garnish: Consider a sprig of rosemary for added aroma and a wintery feel.
These variations can fit within different cuisines, adapting the cocktail to complement a meal or theme.
Non-Alcoholic Options
For those seeking a non-alcoholic version, a "mocktail" adaptation can provide the same enjoyment with zero alcohol. The key is to replicate flavors without the spirits.
Non-alcoholic spirits or bitters can mimic the complexity of the traditional base.
Using tea or infused waters can emulate the depth and fragrance that smoking would contribute.
Through these customizations, the Smoked Old Fashioned maintains its iconic identity while offering a wide range of personalization and inclusivity for all seasons and tastes.
Tips for Hosting
When hosting an event, whether it’s a casual get-together, a sophisticated cocktail party, or a date night, captivating your guests with a magical cocktail experience can make all the difference. A well-crafted cocktail menu, meticulous preparation, and thoughtful pairings are key to ensuring a successful soirée.
Creating a Cocktail Menu
Crafting a cocktail menu for your event should reflect not only the theme but also the range of guests' preferences. A Smoked Old Fashioned can be the centerpiece of your menu. It's essential to offer variety, so consider including:
A light option like a Gin and Tonic
A non-alcoholic mocktail for those not drinking
A bold choice, perhaps a Manhattan or Negroni
Each cocktail should include a short description, helping guests to navigate their choices and adding to the mixology education of the evening.
Preparation for Events
Effective preparation can elevate a party from good to extraordinary. Ensure that you have the following ready for a smooth operation:
Equipment: A smoking gun, ice maker, and cocktail mixing tools
Ingredients: Stock up on bourbon, Angostura bitters, sugar cubes, and fresh oranges
Glassware: Old fashioned glasses for the centerpiece cocktail
Mixologists: If the budget allows, hire a professional mixologist to enhance the experience
Pre-batch some of your cocktails to allow for quick serving and to give you more time to mingle with guests.
Pairings and Themes
Cohesion between your drinks and the overall theme is vital. For a Smoked Old Fashioned, consider a classic or Prohibition-era theme. To complement the cocktails, include pairing options:
Cheese: Smoky gouda or aged cheddar
Meats: Prosciutto or smoked salmon
Chocolate: Dark chocolate can pair beautifully with the richness of bourbon
Organize your evening into a multi-course journey with cocktails paired for each dish, transforming it into a gastronomic adventure that your guests will remember.
Care and Maintenance of Equipment
Proper care and maintenance of smoking gear and storage of cocktail-making tools and ingredients are essential for crafting a perfect Smoked Old Fashioned. These steps ensure the longevity of the equipment and the freshness of ingredients.
Cleaning Your Smoking Gear
After crafting a Smoked Old Fashioned, it's imperative to clean the Breville Smoking Gun or any cocktail smokers like the old fashioned smoker top. Users should remove any residue or ash from the burn chamber by tapping it gently. For a thorough clean, one can use a small brush to dislodge any stubborn debris. If the smoker has a removable silicone tube, it should be washed in soapy water and allowed to dry completely. Butane torches and smoking tubes, essential for imparting a rich smokiness, should be wiped with a damp cloth to remove any residue.
Storing Ingredients and Tools
Storing tools and ingredients correctly is vital for the next preparation. Liquor should be kept in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, typically in a cabinet or on a bar cart. Depending on personal preference and the liquor's body, some may opt to store specific spirits in the fridge, although this is not generally necessary for high-proof spirits like those used in an Old Fashioned.
Tools like the Breville Smoking Gun or torches should be stored with their refill butane canisters disconnected. It is advisable to store butane canisters in a cool place away from direct heat sources.
When shopping for replacement parts or refills, retailers like liquor stores and online platforms such as Amazon offer a variety of options. Always ensure that refills and parts are compatible with the specific model of the smoking gear to maintain optimal performance.
By adhering to these care and maintenance tips, bartenders and enthusiasts can consistently deliver the smoky allure of a well-crafted Smoked Old Fashioned.
Health and Safety Considerations
Preparing a Smoked Old Fashioned requires attention to both alcohol consumption and the handling of smoke and flames. The following considerations ensure the drink can be enjoyed responsibly and safely.
Alcohol Consumption
Caloric Intake: One should be aware that cocktails like the Smoked Old Fashioned do contain calories. The majority come from the whiskey and any added sugars, which can contribute to overall caloric intake.
Safe Consumption: It is important to consume alcoholic beverages in moderation. The Smoked Old Fashioned contains a significant amount of alcohol, and it's advised that individuals follow recommended guidelines to avoid the risks associated with excessive alcohol consumption.
Use of Smoke and Flames
Smoke Devices: When infusing a drink with smoke, one must be careful with the devices used, such as a smoking gun or smoke lid. Manufacturers' instructions should be followed closely to prevent accidents and ensure proper operation.
Charred Elements: If using charred wood chips or similar elements to create smoke, they should never be left unattended, and caution must be used to ensure they are fully extinguished after use to prevent fire hazards.
Where to Experience the Best Smoked Old Fashioneds
Dedicated aficionados seeking the ultimate Smoked Old Fashioned will find their desires met in select establishments known for their mixology expertise. These venues distinguish themselves not only by their superb craft but also by their use of quality ingredients like Luxardo Maraschino Cherries (how long do cherries last?).
Bars and Restaurants
It's at the heart of urban bar scenes that one discovers mixologists who elevate the Smoked Old Fashioned to an art form. These are some notable spots where patrons can expect a top-tier cocktail experience:
The Smokestack, New York City: Renowned for its Smoked Old Fashioned, they use a special blend of wood chips to enhance the flavor profile.
Oak & Ember, Los Angeles: Expert mixologists here have perfected the smoked cocktail, providing a menu that includes a Smoked Old Fashioned with a signature twist.
Charred Barrel House, Chicago: Famous for their barrel-aged spirits and smoked cocktails, including a meticulously crafted Smoked Old Fashioned featuring Luxardo Maraschino Cherries.
Culinary Travel Destinations
For those willing to journey further, there are destinations renowned for their culinary delights, including expertly crafted Smoked Old Fashioneds:
New Orleans, Louisiana: A city steeped in mixology history offers Smoked Old Fashioneds in various bars along Bourbon Street, each with a unique local flair.
Kentucky Bourbon Trail: Ideal for whiskey enthusiasts, this trail includes stops at bars that serve exceptional Smoked Old Fashioneds, showcasing the synergy between local bourbon and the art of smoking cocktails.
