How to Smoke Your Way to the Perfect Old Fashioned at Home
Cocktails, much like food, are highly personal experiences. What delights the palate of one might cause the face of another to pucker. Enter the Old Fashioned. This classic cocktail is a true chameleon, its versatility allowing it to adapt to the preferences of even the most discerning drinker. Its simplicity also makes it the perfect canvas for experimentation, as mixologists have been wont to do throughout its storied history.
One of the most recent trends in Old Fashioned-making is the addition of smoke. Whether it’s from wood chips, hay, or even tea leaves, smoke can add an extra layer of complexity and intrigue to this timeless drink. If you’re looking to elevate your home bartending game, read on to learn how to smoke your way to the perfect Old Fashioned.
The Art of Smoking an Old Fashioned
Smoking an Old Fashioned is a relatively simple process, but there are a few things you’ll need to do to ensure success.
- First, you’ll need to choose your smoking method. There are a few different ways to smoke an Old Fashioned, but the most popular methods are using a smoker box, a smoke gun, or a smoking cloche.
- Second, you’ll need to choose your smoking material. There are a variety of different materials that can be used to smoke an Old Fashioned, but the most common materials are wood chips, hay, and tea leaves.
- Third, you’ll need to prepare your Old Fashioned. To do this, simply combine your favorite bourbon, sugar, and bitters in a mixing glass and stir until the sugar is dissolved.
- Finally, you’ll need to smoke your Old Fashioned. Once your Old Fashioned is prepared, simply place it in your smoker box, smoke gun, or smoking cloche and smoke for the desired amount of time.
Tips and Expert Advice for Smoking an Old Fashioned
- For a subtle smoke flavor, smoke your Old Fashioned for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For a more intense smoke flavor, smoke your Old Fashioned for 2 to 3 minutes.
- If you’re using a smoker box, make sure to place the wood chips on the bottom of the box and the Old Fashioned on top of the wood chips.
- If you’re using a smoke gun, insert the smoke gun into the top of the glass and smoke the Old Fashioned for the desired amount of time.
- If you’re using a smoking cloche, place the Old Fashioned under the cloche and smoke for the desired amount of time.
- Garnish your smoked Old Fashioned with an orange peel or a cherry.
FAQs on Smoked Old Fashioneds
- What’s the best type of bourbon to use for a smoked Old Fashioned?
Any good bourbon will do, but I recommend using a bourbon with a high proof (90-100 proof) and a strong flavor profile.
- What’s the best type of wood chips to use for smoking an Old Fashioned?
Hickory, oak, and cherry wood chips are all good choices for smoking an Old Fashioned.
- How long should I smoke my Old Fashioned for?
This depends on your personal preference. For a subtle smoke flavor, smoke your Old Fashioned for 30 seconds to 1 minute. For a more intense smoke flavor, smoke your Old Fashioned for 2 to 3 minutes.
Conclusion
Smoking an Old Fashioned is a great way to add an extra layer of complexity and intrigue to this classic cocktail. If you’re looking for a new way to enjoy your favorite bourbon, give smoked Old Fashioneds a try.
Are you interested in learning more about cocktails? Check out my other blog posts on the subject!
