Smoked Old Fashioned

Smoking Old Fashioned at home

There are quite a few ways to create a smoky Old Fashioned drink. If this is the first time you’re making smoked drinks, we suggest starting with the smoker lid.  

Smoker lid: A smoker lid fits on top of a glass and features a small hole covered in a metal mesh. To use it, add some wood chips to the chimney, then light it with a butane torch or smoker gun. The smoke will float down into the drink and infuse it. 

Smoking gun: A smoke gun offers precise control over smoke infusion. Wood chips or herbs are loaded into the chamber and ignited, and the resulting smoke is directed into a sealed container holding the cocktail. This method allows for meticulous selection of smoke type (wood or herb) and precise control over smoke intensity. For this reason, a smoking gun Old Fashioned is a good way to go.  

Smoked glassware: Pre-smoking glassware imparts a subtle smoky character to the finished drink. This technique involves briefly exposing the empty glass to smoke from burning wood chips or herbs. As you pour the cocktail, the smoke “sticks” to the moistened glass surface, releasing the aroma and yields a very mellow smoked glass Old Fashioned.  

More info here: 6 Smoked Bourbon Cocktails for Beginners and Pros 

Smoke flavors to play with for the best smoked Old Fashioned recipe

The wood you use is one of the most important smoked Old Fashioned ingredients. Popular options include:  

Oak: Gives a robust and classic smokiness that enhances the bourbon’s rich, deep flavors. 

Cherry: Adds a slightly sweet and fruity smoke, complementing the citrus and bitters in the cocktail. 

Apple: Imparts a light, sweet, and fruity smoke, adding a refreshing and subtle layer to the drink. 

Hickory: Provides a strong, earthy smoke, perfect for those who enjoy a more intense and bolder smoky flavor. 

Still curious? Smokin’ Hot on TikTok: How to Smoke Cocktails 

Sugar cube vs simple syrup 

When crafting a Smoked Old Fashioned, choosing between a sugar cube and simple syrup can impact the final flavor and texture of your cocktail. Here’s a quick comparison: 

Sugar cube

• Classic choice: The traditional Old Fashioned recipe calls for a sugar cube, which provides a nostalgic and authentic touch. 

• Ritual: Muddling the sugar cube with bitters adds an extra step, making the preparation feel more artisanal and hands-on. 

• Texture: The granules can add a slight texture to the drink, which some may find appealing. 

• Consistency: It can be harder to achieve consistent sweetness, as the sugar might not fully dissolve, especially in cold liquids. 

Simple syrup

• Convenience: Simple syrup is quick and easy to use, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free preparation. 

• Consistency: It dissolves completely, providing a uniform sweetness throughout the cocktail. 

• Versatility: You can easily infuse simple syrup with flavors like vanilla, cinnamon, or herbs to add an extra layer of complexity. 

• Smooth texture: It gives the drink a cleaner texture without the granules of undissolved sugar. 

Expert tips & common mistakes

To craft the perfect Smoked Old Fashioned, keep these expert tips in mind: 

• Always use fresh, clean ice to avoid any unwanted flavors that old ice can impart to your cocktail.
• Precision is key. Use a jigger to measure your ingredients, ensuring the right balance of flavors.
• Stirring the cocktail ensures a smoother texture and better integration of flavors, without over-diluting the drink.
• Avoid adding too much smoke and overwhelming the drink’s delicate balance by limiting smoke exposure to about two minutes.  

Common mistakes to avoid

• Don’t skip the garnish. An orange peel and Luxardo cherry adds visual appeal and enhances the drink’s aroma and flavor.
• The quality of your bourbon, bitters, and garnish can make or break your cocktail. Choose high-quality products for the best results.
• Make sure your glass is clean and free from any residual odours —unless you are smoking your glass, of course! 

Also see: Manhattan Drink vs Old Fashioned Cocktail: What is the Difference? 

Variations to step up your game

Looking to add a unique twist to your Smoked Old Fashioned? Here are some great variations to impress your guests:

• Add a dash of cinnamon or clove bitters for a warm, spiced flavor that complements the smokiness. 
• Swap the simple syrup for maple syrup to add a rich, sweet depth to your cocktail. 
• Muddle a sprig of rosemary or thyme with the simple syrup for a fragrant, herbal note that pairs beautifully with the smoke. 
• Add a splash of fresh grapefruit or blood orange juice for a zesty, citrusy kick that balances the smoky flavors. 

Also see: Apple Butter Old Fashioned | Añejo Old Fashioned 

Serving & presentation ideas 

Level up your Smoked Old Fashioned with these serving and presentation tips: 

Chilled glasses. Serve your cocktail in a pre-chilled rocks glass to keep it cool and refreshing. 

Smoky reveal. For an impressive presentation, fill the glass with smoke just before serving, and lift the cover in front of your guests for a dramatic reveal. 

Garnish flair. Use a fresh orange peelto express the oils over the drink before dropping it in, and add a Luxardo cherry for a touch of elegance. 

Special glassware. Consider using a smoked or tinted glass to enhance the visual appeal and complement the smoky theme. 

Presentation board. For a touch of sophistication, serve your Smoked Old Fashioned on a wooden board with the garnishes arranged artfully beside the glass.  

Go pro: The Best Cocktail Cherries to Garnish Your Favorite Cocktail 

More inspiration this way

If learning how to smoke an Old Fashioned has you fired up to try new things, here are a few must-read articles to keep the creative juices flowing:  

• The Best Grand Marnier Cocktails & Dessert Recipes 

• 18 Pumpkin Cocktails to Warm Up this Halloween 

• Kanpai! 12 Japanese Whisky Cocktails to Master 

There you have it—now you know how to make a Smoked Old Fashioned like a pro! Go on and make some magic. Remember to tag us when you share pictures on Instagram and sign up for our newsletter to get more drinkspiration delivered straight to your inbox. And be sure to check out the Wild Turkey website for some tasty recipes that whiskey lovers can make at home.