The 9 Best Smoky Cocktails
Smoky Cocktails: A Bartender's Guide to Infusing Flavorful Elegance
Let’s talk smoky cocktails. And when I say “smoky cocktails” I’m specifically referring to cocktails that TASTE like smoke. Not necessarily cocktails that have been smoked. Though we go through a few smoked cocktails techniques and tips. Make sense? Don’t worry. It will. Before we explain the differences and what makes a cocktail smoky, lets first jump into the list of smoky cocktails.
#1 Smoked Gin Old Fashioned
smoky gin old fashioned
We’ll start with the big elephant in the room when it comes to smoky cocktails, which is smoked cocktails. Meaning a cocktail that is physically infused with smoke to make it taste smoky. The perfect example of this would be this here Smoked Gin Old Fashioned.
Now if this is the kind of cocktail you’re after, check out this guide here to smoking cocktails at home. It’ll take you through step by step how to smoke any cocktail.
But when it comes to smoky cocktails, they don’t specifically have to me smoked. They can taste smoky due to the ingredients. Like out next cocktail…
#2 Mezcal Margarita
Smoky Mezcal Margarita.
A lot of spirits & liqueurs taste smoky, so the easiest way to achieve a smoky cocktail is just to use one of those smoky tasting spirits or liqueurs. Mezcal is a great example and an amazing smoky cocktail to try if you’re new to smoky cocktails, or just want something that has a little more going on other then smoke. would be this Mezcal Margarita. It has that strong smoky taste thanks to the mezcal, but with the added balance of sweet and sour to really round it out.
#3 Black Gold
Black gold cocktail
This is a cocktail that uses both smoky ingredients and actual smoke to achieve a well balanced smoky cocktail. It’s also jet black which is something currently taking off in the cocktail world.
#4 Smoky Boulevardier
Smoky Boulevardier
Mezcal Negroni
Keeping with that bitter cocktail vibe, specifically, the Negroni styled drinks, we have this. The Mezcal Negroni. Or the mezcal boulevardier, whichever you prefer to call it. All you need to do for this is take the standard boulevardier recipe, then replace the bourbon with Mezcal. What you get is a smoky cocktail with a hard hitting bitter flavor which you’ll either love or hate.
#6 The Penicillin
the penicillin cocktail
The Penicillin cocktail is a delightful and smoky concoction that blends the rich flavors of Scotch whisky, honey, ginger, and a hint of peaty goodness. Here's a simple recipe for crafting the Penicillin cocktail:
Ingredients:
3/4 oz Fresh lemon juice
3/4 oz Honey syrup (1:1 ratio of honey to hot water, cooled)
Ginger (for garnish)
#7 Smoky Hot Toddy
Smoky Hot Toddy
Hot Toddy’s might not be the first cocktail you think of when you think smoky cocktails. You’d probably stick this in the category of sweeter drinks. But the base is almost their with a classic hot toddy. A little bit of tweaking and you end up with a delightfully smoky cocktail and the hot toddy as a formula perfectly carry’s the a smoky flavor. Just use a smoky whisky for this.
#8 The Godfather
godfather cocktail
Another example of sweet and smoky cocktails is the godfather. Which is a 2 ingredient cocktail so massively recommend trying this classic out.
#9 Grilled Pineapple Pina Colada
Grilled Pina Colada
Another way a cocktail can be smoky which we are yet to talk about but I think is amazing, is the flavor of smoke that you get from something being grilled. So for this, we’re not necessarily talking about that harsh cloud of smoke type of flavor, instead something sweet or citrusy that has almost a charred flavor about it.
The perfect example of what I’m trying to say is the Grilled pina colada.
You make a pine colada as you normally would, but instead of using pineapple juice, you use grilled pineapples and you will see what I mean.
Ingredients:
2 oz White rum
3/4 cup Grilled pineapple chunks (plus extra for garnish)
1 1/2 oz Coconut cream
1 oz Pineapple juice
3/4 oz Fresh lime juice
1 oz Simple syrup (adjust to taste)
Ice cubes
Pineapple leaves or mint sprig (for garnish)
Instructions:
Grill the Pineapple:
Preheat your grill or grill pan.
Grill pineapple chunks until they develop grill marks and caramelization, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a smoky flavor. Set aside a few grilled pineapple chunks for garnish.
Prepare the Pineapple Puree:
Blend the majority of the grilled pineapple chunks until smooth to create a grilled pineapple puree. You should have about 3/4 cup of puree.
Make the Pine Colada Mix:
In a blender, combine the white rum, grilled pineapple puree, coconut cream, pineapple juice, fresh lime juice, and simple syrup.
Add a handful of ice cubes to the blender.
Blend Until Smooth:
Blend the ingredients until smooth and creamy. Adjust the consistency by adding more ice or liquid if needed.
Taste and Adjust:
Taste the mixture and adjust the sweetness with more simple syrup if necessary.
Serve:
Pour the Pine Colada into chilled glasses.
Garnish:
Garnish each glass with a grilled pineapple chunk and a pineapple leaf or mint sprig for a touch of freshness.
Enjoy:
Sip and savor the tropical goodness with the added depth of smoky grilled pineapple.
Tips:
Grilling Pineapple: The key to a flavorful Pine Colada lies in perfectly grilled pineapple. Ensure the pineapple gets those beautiful grill marks and a hint of caramelization.
Coconut Cream: Use quality coconut cream for a rich and creamy texture. Adjust the amount to your preference, keeping in mind that it contributes to both the flavor and mouthfeel of the drink.
Rum Selection: Opt for a light and crisp white rum to let the grilled pineapple flavors shine. You can also experiment with flavored rums for an extra layer of complexity.
Presentation: Consider rimming the glasses with toasted coconut or a mixture of sugar and cinnamon for an added touch of tropical elegance.
This Grilled Pine Colada is a fantastic way to elevate the classic cocktail with the smokiness of grilled pineapple. Whether you're lounging by the pool or hosting a summer get-together, this tropical delight is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Cheers to the perfect blend of sun, sand, and smoky sweetness!
What is a Smoky Cocktail?
Defining the Charismatic Blend
So, what exactly is a smoky cocktail? It seems like a question that doesn’t need an answer but you’d be surprised. Smoky cocktails are simply put - cocktail that taste smoky.
This could be a cocktail that tastes like an ashtray, it could be something that tastes like peat, it could be something that taste like BBQ or smoky bacon crisp.
The need for the explanation comes from smoking cocktails. Smoking cocktails is a technique where you physical infuse a cocktail with smoke. Which you can learn about here. Smoky cocktails, can be anything that taste like smoke.
So just to sum up. All cocktails which you smoke with a cocktail smoker count as smoky cocktails. But not all smoky cocktails have to be infused with smoke. Make sense?
A Brief Trip Through History
This trend is not just a recent phenomenon. Historical anecdotes suggest that the use of smoke in drinks dates back centuries, adding depth and character to libations. Modern mixologists have revived this tradition, creating contemporary twists on classic recipes.
The Art of Smoking Cocktails
Understanding the Alchemy
Before we dive into crafting smoky goodness, let's understand the basics. Smoking a cocktail involves infusing it with smoky flavors, creating a sensory journey for your taste buds. There are various methods to achieve this, and each brings its own unique charm to the drink.
Smoking Techniques
Smoking Wood Chips: One popular method involves using wood chips like oak or hickory. Ignite them, capture the smoke in a glass, and let it work its magic on your chosen elixir.
Using Smoked Ingredients: Play with ingredients like smoked herbs, fruits, or even smoked ice cubes to impart a subtle smokiness to your drink.
Smoky Glassware Techniques: Coating glassware with smoke before pouring the cocktail adds a sophisticated touch and intensifies the overall experience.
How to Make a Smoky Cocktail at Home?
Gear Up for a Flavorful Adventure
Creating a smoky cocktail at home isn't rocket science. All you need are a few tools and the right ingredients.
Essential Tools and Ingredients: Grab a cocktail shaker, quality spirits, fresh ingredients, and don't forget the star of the show – something to generate that tantalizing smoke.
Step-by-Step Guide: Start with a base recipe you love, then introduce the smoke. Use a smoker box, a DIY smoking contraption, or even a handheld smoker to infuse your drink.
Tips for the Home Mixologist: No fancy equipment? No problem! Get creative with household items like a food smoker, wood chips, and a covered glass to trap the smoky essence.
Different Ways to Enjoy Smoky Cocktails
Finding Your Perfect Setting
Smoky cocktails aren't just reserved for dimly lit bars. Explore different settings to savor the charm of these drinks.
Home Comfort: Enjoy a smoky sipper curled up by the fireplace or out on the patio with friends.
Social Gatherings: Surprise your guests with a smoky concoction at your next gathering. The aroma alone will be a conversation starter.
Celebratory Toasts: Elevate special occasions with the elegance of a well-crafted smoky cocktail. It's the perfect accompaniment to celebrations.
Herb Smoked Cocktails
Elevating Flavor with Herbs
Adding herbs to the smoky mix introduces a layer of freshness and complexity.
Rosemary-Infused Bliss
Recipe Ideas: Try infusing rosemary into a gin-based cocktail for a fragrant, herbaceous experience.
Thyme-Enhanced Elegance
Flavor Combinations: Experiment with thyme in a whiskey cocktail for a subtle earthiness that complements the smokiness.
Smoky Spirits & Liqueurs
Exploring the Depths of Distinctive Flavors
One of the true joys of crafting smoky cocktails lies in the selection of spirits and liqueurs that bring their own unique smoky personality to the mix. These flavorful additions can significantly influence the character of your drink, creating a symphony of tastes that dance on the palate.
1. Peaty Whiskies: A Robust Foundation
When delving into the world of smoky spirits, peaty whiskies take center stage. Hailing from regions like Islay in Scotland, these whiskies are renowned for their bold, earthy, and medicinal flavors, often accompanied by a profound smokiness. Opt for a Lagavulin or Laphroaig to provide a robust foundation for your smoky concoction. The interplay of peat and smoke adds complexity, making it an excellent choice for those who appreciate a full-bodied, smoky profile.
2. Mezcal Magic: A South-of-the-Border Twist
For a smoky experience with a hint of Mexican flair, turn to mezcal. Derived from the agave plant, mezcal offers a distinct smokiness that sets it apart from its cousin, tequila. The traditional production process involves roasting agave hearts in underground pits, imparting a mesmerizing smoky essence. Opt for a joven (young) mezcal to emphasize the raw, unaged smokiness, or explore aged mezcals for a more nuanced flavor profile. Incorporating mezcal into your cocktail repertoire introduces an exotic twist, perfect for those seeking a departure from traditional smoky spirits.
3. Smoked Infusions: Elevating Elegance
Beyond standalone spirits, consider experimenting with smoked infusions to add depth to your cocktails. Create your own smoky elixirs by infusing spirits like vodka or gin with ingredients like smoked herbs, fruits, or even tea leaves. This DIY approach allows you to tailor the level of smokiness to your liking, offering a customizable and unique element to your mixology toolkit. Imagine the possibilities of a smoked rosemary-infused vodka or a tea-smoked gin—your creativity knows no bounds.
4. Bacon-Infused Bourbon: A Savory Delight
For those who relish savory flavors, consider elevating your smoky cocktails with a bacon-infused bourbon. This unconventional twist introduces a meaty, smoky richness that pairs exceptionally well with sweeter elements in your drink. The process involves infusing crispy bacon into your favorite bourbon, creating a unique fusion that adds a touch of indulgence to your libation. It's a surprising and delightful addition that showcases the versatility of smoky spirits in crafting unconventional yet utterly delicious cocktails.
Recommendations for Incorporation
When working with smoky spirits and liqueurs, it's essential to consider how they interact with other ingredients in your cocktail. Here are a few recommendations to ensure a harmonious blend:
Balancing Act: Given the bold nature of smoky spirits, pay attention to balance. Offset the intense smokiness with complementary flavors, such as citrusy notes, sweet elements, or herbal infusions.
Layered Complexity: Experiment with layering different smoky spirits to create a nuanced and complex flavor profile. Combining peaty whiskies with mezcal, for instance, can result in a delightful fusion of earthy, medicinal, and agave-driven smokiness.
Custom Infusions: Embrace the art of custom infusions to tailor the level of smokiness according to your preferences. This hands-on approach allows you to fine-tune your cocktails and showcase your unique take on smoky mixology.
Incorporating smoky spirits and liqueurs into your repertoire opens a world of possibilities, inviting you to explore diverse flavor profiles and redefine the boundaries of your mixology expertise. Whether you're drawn to the robust allure of peaty whiskies, the exotic charm of mezcal, or the creative potential of homemade smoked infusions, these elements are sure to add a captivating smoky twist to your cocktail creations. Cheers to the adventurous exploration of smoky spirits!
Pairing Smoky Cocktails with Food
A Culinary Symphony
Synergy Between Flavors: Explore how smoky cocktails complement various cuisines. The smokiness can enhance grilled meats or add depth to spicy dishes.
Recommended Pairings: From tapas to barbecue, there's a smoky cocktail that can elevate the flavors of your favorite dishes.
Tips and Tricks from the Bar
Navigating the Smoky Seas
Experimentation is Key: Don't be afraid to play with different wood varieties, ingredients, and techniques to find your signature smoky touch.
Balance is Everything: Achieving the right balance between the base cocktail and the smoky element is crucial. Start with a light touch and adjust according to taste.
Be Mindful of Glassware: The presentation is part of the experience. Experiment with smoked glassware for added visual appeal.
So, there you have it – a comprehensive guide to smoky cocktails. Whether you're a seasoned mixologist or an at-home enthusiast, let the magic of smoke elevate your libation game. Embrace the trend, get creative, and remember: the world of smoky cocktails is as vast and diverse as the flavors you can infuse into your next drink. Cheers to the smoky symphony in every sip!
Hi, I’m Cameron, guv’nor of Smartblend. If you liked this then you’re in luck, I have a bunch more recipes like it. I share only vegetarian and pescatarian food recipes, cocktails, and drink guides with a sprinkling of wellness and mindful drinking. If that sounds like you, then stick around!
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