The Old Fashioned is one of the most iconic cocktails in the world, often seen as a drink that exudes sophistication and class. Though it has gone through many iterations, the cocktail has maintained its status as a staple of refined drinking for over two centuries. With its perfect blend of bitters, sugar, and spirit, the Old Fashioned was, and remains a true gentleman’s drink. But as tastes evolve and bartenders seek to elevate classic recipes, the Smoked Old Fashioned has emerged as a modern twist, infusing the drink with a complex aroma that enhances its traditional flavor profile.

In this post, we will dive into the rich history of the Old Fashioned, explore why adding smoke is more than just a visual spectacle, and finally, provide a step-by-step guide to creating the ultimate Smoked Old Fashioned.

A Brief History of the Old Fashioned

The origins of the Old Fashioned can be traced back to the early 1800s, when cocktails were often described in simple terms. In the 13 May 1806 issue of *The Balance and Columbian Repository* in Hudson, New York, the editor defined a cocktail as a potent concoction of spirits, bitters, water, and sugar. This original mixture was known as a “bittered sling” and laid the foundation for what would later become known as the Old Fashioned.

The drink’s evolution from a bittered sling to the Old Fashioned we recognize today is marked by decades of refinement. By the late 19th century, the name “Old Fashioned” had begun to appear, particularly about a drink ordered in a style that harks back to an earlier era. Bartenders would receive requests for a cocktail made “the old-fashioned way,” which meant a return to the classic formula without the flashy liqueurs and additives that had become trendy at the time. It was a simpler, more straightforward drink—one that embraced tradition over innovation.

In the Prohibition era (1920-1933), cocktails like the Old Fashioned saw a decline as speakeasies often resorted to lower-quality spirits that needed to be masked with sweeteners and citrus. Yet, the Old Fashioned survived this tumultuous period and enjoyed a resurgence post-Prohibition, cementing itself as a timeless choice for discerning drinkers. In recent years, the Old Fashioned has taken on new life, thanks in part to the creativity of modern mixologists who have introduced novel elements such as smoked wood and gourmet garnishes.

In 2020, *Drinks International* reported that the Old Fashioned was the best-selling classic cocktail internationally for the sixth year in a row, a testament to its enduring popularity and universal appeal. Today, the Smoked Old Fashioned is a sophisticated variation that adds a dramatic flair and an enhanced sensory experience to the classic cocktail.

The Sensory Science Behind Smoked Cocktails

The concept of smoking food and beverages is not new, but applying it to cocktails is a relatively recent trend that has captivated the world of mixology. To understand why the Smoked Old Fashioned is so popular, it’s essential to delve into the science behind how smell influences our perception of taste.

When we eat or drink, our perception of flavor is a combination of smell, taste, texture, and temperature. Smell, however, plays a predominant role in how we experience flavors. The olfactory receptors in our nose detect aromatic compounds and send signals to the brain, enhancing the flavors we perceive on the palate. This is why adding smoke to food or drink can profoundly alter the experience—it’s not just a matter of taste but of creating a multi-sensory encounter.

In the case of the Smoked Old Fashioned, the choice of wood is critical. The cocktail smoker kit used to prepare the drink often comes with a variety of wood chips, but cherry wood is the preferred choice for this particular recipe. Cherry wood imparts a subtle, sweet smokiness that pairs perfectly with the deep, rich flavor of the Luxardo Maraschino Cherry used in the drink. The smoke complements the other ingredients, creating an intricate balance of flavors that would be impossible to achieve through taste alone.

Furthermore, the ritual of smoking the cocktail in front of a guest adds an element of theatre and anticipation. As the smoke swirls around the glass, the aromatic molecules bind with the drink, infusing it with a gentle smokiness that enhances each sip. The visual impact, combined with the wafting aroma, heightens the overall drinking experience, making the Smoked Old Fashioned a feast for all the senses.

Ingredients:

For the best results, it’s essential to use high-quality ingredients. The Luxardo Maraschino Cherry, for example, has a rich, dark flavor that far surpasses the typical neon-red cherries often used in bars. Similarly, the Woodford Reserve Whiskey adds depth and character, while the Jack Rudy Demerara Syrup provides a subtle sweetness that balances the bitterness of the Angostura bitters.

  • Ingredients:
  • – 2 Clementine wedges (muddled)
  • – 1 Luxardo Maraschino Cherry (muddled)
  • – 1 spoonful of Luxardo Maraschino Cherry Syrup
  • – 2 dashes of Angostura Orange Bitters
  • – 1/2 oz Jack Rudy Demerara Syrup
  • – 2 oz Woodford Reserve Whiskey
  • – 1 Clementine peel (used to flavor the glass rim)
  • – Cherry wood chips for smoking (or a preferred wood flavor)

Instructions:

1. Muddle the Ingredients: Start by adding the clementine wedges and a Luxardo Maraschino Cherry to your glass. Add one spoonful of the cherry syrup, two dashes of Angostura Orange Bitters, and half an ounce of Jack Rudy Demerara Syrup. Gently muddle the ingredients together. This step is crucial because it releases the essential oils and juices from the citrus and cherries, helping the flavors combine and intensify.

2. Add the Whiskey: Pour 2 ounces of Woodford Reserve Whiskey into the glass. Woodford Reserve is known for its rich and full-bodied flavor, making it the ideal base spirit for this cocktail. Stir gently to allow the flavors to meld.

3. Ice and Garnish: Add a large ice cube to the glass. Using a clementine peel, rim the glass to add a hint of citrus aroma, and then drop the peel into the drink as a garnish. The ice cube should be large enough to melt slowly, preventing dilution and preserving the drink’s integrity.

4. Smoking the Cocktail: Place the smoker lid over the glass and add a pinch of cherry wood chips to the smoking chamber. Ignite the wood chips with a lighter or torch, allowing the smoke to fill the glass. Let it sit for a few moments to infuse the drink with the smoky essence. The cherry wood will impart a delicate, sweet smokiness that perfectly complements the Luxardo Maraschino Cherry used in the cocktail.

5. Serve and Savor: Remove the smoker lid and present the drink. Take a moment to appreciate the visual spectacle and inhale the smoky aroma before taking your first sip. The smoke adds an entirely new dimension to the cocktail, making each sip a complex and enjoyable experience.

If you’re looking to take your Old Fashioned game to the next level, investing in a cocktail smoker kit is well worth it. Not only does it allow you to experiment with different wood flavors, but it also makes for a stunning presentation when serving the drink to guests. (I’ve embedded the Amazon link in the image below. Just click already!)

In conclusion, the Smoked Old Fashioned is more than just a cocktail—it’s an experience. Its rich history, combined with the science of smell and taste, makes it the perfect drink for those looking to enjoy a timeless classic with a modern twist. Whether you’re an experienced mixologist or a home enthusiast, mastering the Smoked Old Fashioned is a rewarding endeavor that’s sure to impress. Cheers!