Mastering the Craft: A Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Smoked Old Fashioned Cocktail

Introduction

Are you a cocktail enthusiast looking to take your mixology skills to the next level? Look no further than the Smoked Old Fashioned cocktail. This classic drink has been given a modern twist with the addition of smoke, creating a unique and unforgettable experience for your taste buds. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the process of making a Smoked Old Fashioned cocktail that will impress even the most discerning of cocktail connoisseurs.

Ingredients

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s gather all the necessary ingredients:

• 2 ounces of bourbon
• 1 sugar cube
• 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
• A few drops of water
• An orange peel for garnish
• Wood chips for smoking

Equipment

To make a Smoked Old Fashioned cocktail, you will need the following equipment:

• Whiskey glass
• Muddler
• Cocktail spoon
• Lighter or torch
• Smoking cloche or glass dome

Step 1: Prepare the Glass

Start by placing the sugar cube in the whiskey glass. Add 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters and a few drops of water to the glass. Using the muddler, gently muddle the sugar cube until it is dissolved and well combined with the bitters and water.

Step 2: Add the Bourbon

Once the sugar cube is fully dissolved, pour 2 ounces of bourbon into the glass. Use a cocktail spoon to stir the mixture gently, ensuring that all the ingredients are well incorporated.

Step 3: Prepare the Smoking Cloche

Now it’s time to add the smoky element to your cocktail. Take the wood chips and place them in a small dish. Using a lighter or torch, carefully ignite the wood chips until they start to produce smoke. Quickly cover the whiskey glass with the smoking cloche or glass dome, trapping the smoke inside.

Step 4: Infuse the Cocktail

Allow the cocktail to sit under the smoking cloche for about 1-2 minutes, allowing the smoke to infuse into the drink. This will give your Smoked Old Fashioned a unique and complex flavor profile.

Step 5: Uncover and Garnish

After the desired infusion time has passed, carefully remove the smoking cloche or glass dome from the whiskey glass. Take an orange peel and express the oils over the cocktail by gently squeezing it over the glass. Rub the peel around the rim of the glass to release even more aroma.

Serving and Enjoying

Your Smoked Old Fashioned cocktail is now ready to be enjoyed. Take a moment to appreciate the smoky aroma that wafts from the glass. Sip slowly and savor the complex flavors that the smoke has imparted to the drink. The combination of the rich bourbon, the sweetness of the sugar, and the aromatic bitters creates a truly delightful experience for your taste buds.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of making a Smoked Old Fashioned cocktail is a surefire way to impress your friends and elevate your cocktail game. By following this step-by-step guide, you can create a drink that not only tastes amazing but also provides a unique sensory experience. So gather your ingredients, grab your equipment, and get ready to become a master mixologist with the Smoked Old Fashioned cocktail.

Table: Ingredients and Equipment