Mastering the Craft: A Step-by-Step Guide to Smoking the Perfect Old Fashioned

Introduction

Smoking cocktails has become a popular trend in the mixology world, adding a unique and flavorful twist to classic drinks. One cocktail that has particularly benefited from this technique is the Old Fashioned. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of smoking the perfect Old Fashioned, allowing you to impress your friends and elevate your cocktail game.

What You Will Need

Before we dive into the steps, let’s make sure you have all the necessary tools and ingredients:

• Whiskey (preferably bourbon)
• Simple syrup
• Angostura bitters
• Orange peel
• Wood chips (such as applewood or hickory)
• A smoking gun or a handheld smoker
• An Old Fashioned glass
• Ice cubes
• A cocktail stirrer

Step 1: Prepare the Smoking Gun

Start by preparing your smoking gun or handheld smoker. Make sure it is clean and ready to use. If you are using wood chips, soak them in water for about 30 minutes before smoking.

Step 2: Mix the Ingredients

In a mixing glass, combine 2 ounces of whiskey, 1/2 ounce of simple syrup, and a few dashes of Angostura bitters. Stir well to ensure all the flavors are properly combined.

Step 3: Add Ice

Fill your Old Fashioned glass with ice cubes. The ice will help chill the cocktail and dilute it slightly, balancing the flavors.

Step 4: Smoke the Glass

Now it’s time to add the smoky element to your Old Fashioned. Take your smoking gun or handheld smoker and light it up. Place the smoking tube into the glass, making sure it is securely inserted. Turn on the smoker and let the smoke fill the glass for about 10-15 seconds.

Step 5: Stir and Strain

Remove the smoking tube from the glass and give the cocktail a gentle stir using a cocktail stirrer. This will help incorporate the smoky flavors throughout the drink. Once stirred, strain the cocktail into the smoked Old Fashioned glass, leaving behind any ice cubes or excess ingredients.

Step 6: Garnish and Enjoy

To complete your perfect Old Fashioned, take an orange peel and express the oils over the drink. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass and drop it into the cocktail as a garnish. The citrusy aroma will complement the smoky flavors beautifully.

Now, sit back, relax, and savor the fruits of your labor. The smoky notes combined with the classic flavors of the Old Fashioned will create a truly unforgettable drinking experience.

Tips and Tricks

Here are a few additional tips to help you master the craft of smoking the perfect Old Fashioned:

• Experiment with different types of wood chips to find your preferred flavor profile. Applewood and hickory are popular choices, but feel free to get creative.
• Don’t overdo it with the smoke. You want to enhance the flavors, not overpower them. Start with a shorter smoking time and adjust according to your taste.
• Consider using a high-quality whiskey or bourbon for the best results. The smoky flavors will complement the rich and complex notes of a good spirit.
• If you don’t have a smoking gun or handheld smoker, you can try using a covered container and a lit piece of charcoal. Place the charcoal in the container, add the soaked wood chips, and cover it for a few minutes to let the smoke infuse.

Conclusion

Smoking the perfect Old Fashioned is a skill that will impress your guests and elevate your cocktail-making abilities. By following this step-by-step guide, you can master the craft and enjoy a unique and flavorful twist on a classic drink. So gather your ingredients, fire up your smoking gun, and get ready to indulge in the perfect smoky Old Fashioned.

Table: Recommended Wood Chip Flavors