Smoked Black Cherry Old Fashion Recipe

Crafting a Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned with Luxardo cocktail cherries and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof bourbon elevates this classic cocktail to new heights. The rich, robust flavors of the bourbon, combined with the smoky essence and the sweetness of Luxardo cherries, create a harmonious blend that's both sophisticated and indulgent.

🔴 Wood Smoke Kit

Smoked Old Fashioned Tipshttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4mY4uDaxaNcIn this video, we unveil the secrets to crafting the perfect Old Fashioned cocktail, a timeless drink that complements any backyard smoked meat delight. Whether you're a seasoned whiskey aficionado or new to the world of spirits, this Old Fashioned recipe is bound to captivate your taste buds and become a staple in your entertaining repertoire.https://i.imgur.com/fe65Yjs.jpeg2024-11-24

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Smoked Black Cherry Old Fashion

Yield: 1

Author: Delmarva Backyard

Prep time: 2 MinTotal time: 2 Min

Creating a Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned with Luxardo cocktail cherries and Elijah Craig Barrel Proof bourbon transforms this timeless drink into a luxurious experience. The bold, full-bodied bourbon pairs perfectly with the smoky undertones and the rich sweetness of the cherries, resulting in a cocktail that’s as refined as it is flavorful.

Ingredients

• 7 Dashes Angostura Bitters – The classic bitters that bring depth and spice to the cocktail.
• 3 Dashes Orange Bitters – Adds a bright citrus note to balance the rich bourbon flavors.
• 1.5 oz Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon – The star of the show, offering bold, full-bodied character and complexity.
• 1.25 oz Distilled or Bottled Water – Slightly dilutes the bourbon to open up its flavors without compromising its strength.
• 1 Luxardo Cherry – A luxurious garnish with a small spoonful of its rich, syrupy goodness for added sweetness and a touch of indulgence.
• A Few Drops of Stevia Liquid Sweetener – A low-calorie alternative for sweetness, subtly enhancing the flavors without overpowering the drink.

Instructions

1. Prepare the Glass: Place a large cocktail ice cube in your favorite whiskey glass. This not only chills the drink but also adds an elegant touch to the presentation.
2. Mix the Cocktail: In a standard mixing glass, combine all ingredients (bourbon, bitters, sugar/simple syrup). Stir gently with a bar spoon to blend the flavors.
3. Chill the Mix: Add 3-4 ice cubes to the mixing glass and stir steadily for about 20 seconds. This step chills and slightly dilutes the cocktail to achieve the perfect balance.
4. Pour with Care: Slowly strain the mixture over the large ice cube in the whiskey glass, aiming to leave about 1/2 inch of space from the rim. This makes room for the smoking process and prevents spills.
5. Add the Smoky Flair: Place a smoker or smoking dome over the top of the glass. Sprinkle fine, clean wood chips (such as cherry or oak) into the smoker. Using a torch lighter, ignite the chips until you see a steady flow of smoke filling the glass. Once you achieve a good smoke level, stop the torch and cap the smoker or dome.
6. Infuse and Serve: Allow the cocktail to sit, capped, for about 30 seconds to let the smoke fully infuse the drink. When ready, uncover and enjoy the smoky aroma as you savor each sip.

Notes

Don’t underestimate the importance of water in your cocktail—it’s more than just filler. Water with mineral content or a distinct flavor can subtly alter the profile of your drink, potentially overpowering the delicate balance of the bourbon. To fully appreciate the rich, bold flavors of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof in this cocktail, I recommend using distilled or bottled water with no flavor. This ensures the bourbon remains the star of the show, unmasked by any unintended notes from the water.

Recommended Products

Whiskey Smoker Kit

Additional Tips

1. Use the Right Glassware: A sturdy, wide-rimmed whiskey glass is perfect for an Old Fashioned, allowing you to fully enjoy the smoky aroma and the rich bourbon flavors.

2. Choose Your Wood Chips Wisely: Cherry, oak, or hickory wood chips pair beautifully with Elijah Craig Barrel Proof, adding complementary smoky notes. Avoid heavily resinous woods like pine, as they can impart an unpleasant taste.

3. Mind the Smoke: Start with a light infusion. Too much smoke can overpower the cocktail’s nuanced flavors. You can always add more if you want a stronger smoky profile.

4. Control Your Sweetness: Adjust the Stevia liquid sweetener and Luxardo cherry syrup to suit your taste. The natural sweetness of the cherry balances the cocktail perfectly without making it overly sugary.

5. Chill Your Glass: For a truly premium experience, chill your whiskey glass in the freezer for 10 minutes before assembling the cocktail.

Final Thought

The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned takes a classic cocktail to the next level, combining the rich complexity of Elijah Craig Barrel Proof Bourbon, the sweetness of Luxardo cherries, and a touch of aromatic smoke. It’s not just a drink—it’s an experience, designed for sipping and savoring. Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening or impressing guests, this cocktail brings a refined yet bold twist to your repertoire. Give it a try, and discover how a few simple ingredients can create something extraordinary.

FAQ

Q: Do I need a cocktail smoker to make this drink?
A: While a cocktail smoker is ideal, you can achieve similar results by placing the drink under a large glass jar and introducing smoke from a wood chip bundle using a torch.

Q: Can I substitute the bourbon?
A: Yes! While Elijah Craig Barrel Proof is recommended for its bold flavor, other barrel-proof bourbons or premium whiskeys work well too. Adjust sweetness as needed to balance the stronger or milder profiles.

Q: Is there an alternative to Luxardo cherries?
A: If Luxardo cherries aren’t available, high-quality cocktail cherries like Amarena or Bordeaux cherries can work. Just ensure they’re rich and syrupy for that perfect touch of sweetness.

Q: Can I skip the water?
A: Water is key to balancing the bourbon’s strength and opening up its flavors. If you prefer undiluted bourbon, reduce the amount slightly but avoid omitting it entirely.

Q: How do I adjust the smoky flavor?
A: To reduce smoke, use fewer wood chips or shorten the infusion time. For a stronger smoke profile, let the cocktail sit under the smoke longer before serving.