Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned

The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned is a sophisticated twist on the classic Old Fashioned, blending the deep, rich flavors of bourbon with the smoky essence of wood and the sweet-tart balance of cherries. This cocktail is perfect for whiskey lovers who enjoy bold flavors with a touch of fruitiness. By incorporating smoked cherries and a hint of cherry liqueur, this variation elevates the traditional Old Fashioned, creating a drink that’s both complex and irresistibly smooth.

The Old Fashioned is one of the most revered cocktails in mixology, dating back to the early 19th century. Traditionally, it consists of bourbon or rye whiskey, a sugar cube, bitters, and a twist of citrus. However, modern variations have introduced unique ingredients, and the Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned is one such reinvention that brings a smoky, fruity, and slightly sweet twist to the time-honored recipe.

This drink is ideal for those looking to impress guests, elevate their home bar experience, or simply enjoy a rich, slow-sipping cocktail. With a combination of smoked cherries, bourbon, bitters, and an aromatic smoke infusion, this Old Fashioned variation is bold, elegant, and unforgettable.

Ingredients

To create the Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned, you will need:

• 2 oz (60 ml) bourbon – A high-quality bourbon with caramel, vanilla, and oak notes enhances the depth of this cocktail.
• ½ oz (15 ml) cherry liqueur (e.g., Luxardo or Heering) – Adds a layer of cherry sweetness without overpowering the bourbon.
• ¼ oz (7 ml) simple syrup or cherry syrup – Adjust to taste for the perfect balance of sweetness.
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters – Provides complexity with warm spice notes.
• 2 dashes cherry bitters (optional) – Intensifies the cherry essence.
• 1 large ice cube – Slows dilution for a smooth sipping experience.
• Garnish: Smoked cherry and an orange peel.
• Smoke infusion: A smoking gun, cherry wood chips, or a torch with a fire-safe board for smoking.

Optional Enhancements:

• Use rye whiskey instead of bourbon for a spicier, drier version.
• Substitute cherry liqueur with amaro for added herbal complexity.
• Experiment with different wood chips like hickory, applewood, or oak for varied smoky profiles.

Preparation

Step 1: Smoke the Cherries

Lightly char fresh or maraschino cherries with a kitchen torch or smoking gun. This enhances their natural sweetness and adds a deep, rich smokiness. Set aside to cool.

Step 2: Prepare the Glass

Place a rocks glass upside down over a small pile of cherry wood chips on a fireproof surface. Ignite the wood with a torch and let the smoke fill the glass for 20–30 seconds. Turn the glass upright, trapping the smoke inside.

Step 3: Build the Cocktail

In a mixing glass, add bourbon, cherry liqueur, simple syrup, and bitters. Fill the glass with ice and stir for 20–30 seconds to chill and properly dilute the mixture.

Step 4: Strain into the Smoked Glass

Place a large ice cube in the prepared glass and strain the cocktail over it. This ensures a slow melt and prevents over-dilution.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Garnish with a smoked cherry and express the oils of an orange peel over the drink before dropping it in. Serve immediately and enjoy the aromatic complexity.

Variations

Smoked Maple Cherry Old Fashioned

Swap the simple syrup for maple syrup for a richer, autumn-inspired version. The maple’s smoky sweetness pairs beautifully with the bourbon and cherries.

Spiced Cherry Old Fashioned

Infuse the cocktail with warm spices by muddling a cinnamon stick and star anise in the glass before adding the bourbon.

Chocolate Cherry Old Fashioned

Add a few drops of chocolate bitters for a subtle cocoa note that complements the cherry flavors beautifully.

Barrel-Aged Cherry Old Fashioned

Pre-mix the cocktail and let it age in a mini oak barrel for 2–4 weeks, creating an even deeper, smoother flavor.

Smoky Rye Cherry Old Fashioned

Use rye whiskey instead of bourbon and mezcal instead of cherry liqueur for a smoky, peppery twist.

Cooking Notes

Use a high-quality bourbon for a smoother, more balanced drink. If using fresh cherries, muddle them lightly for extra fruitiness. Adjust the sweetness by increasing or decreasing the amount of cherry syrup or simple syrup. For the best smoke infusion, allow the glass to trap the smoke for at least 30 seconds before pouring in the cocktail.

Serving Suggestions

Pair with dark chocolate, smoked meats, or aged cheeses to complement the smoky and cherry notes. Serve in a heavy-bottomed rocks glass with a large ice cube to maintain the cocktail’s integrity. For an elegant presentation, use a cherry wood smoking board to ignite the wood chips tableside, impressing guests with a dramatic smoke effect.

Tips

For a stronger smoky flavor, smoke the glass for a full minute before adding the cocktail. If you don’t have a smoking gun, place a few cherry wood chips on a fire-safe plate, ignite them, and cover with a glass to trap the smoke. Use brandied cherries instead of maraschino for a deeper, more refined cherry note. Try experimenting with different smoke sources like cedar or applewood to find your preferred flavor profile.

Prep Time: 5 minutes

Cooking Time: 0 minutes

Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutritional Information

Calories: 200-230 per serving
Protein: 0g
Sodium: 5mg

FAQs

Can I make this cocktail without a smoking gun?

Yes! Simply light cherry wood chips on a fireproof plate, place the glass over the smoke, and let it trap the aroma for 30 seconds before pouring the drink.

What’s the best bourbon for this cocktail?

A high-proof bourbon like Buffalo Trace, Woodford Reserve, or Elijah Craig works best, as it stands up to the bold flavors.

Can I use frozen cherries instead of fresh?

Yes, but thaw and lightly torch them to bring out their sweetness before adding them to the drink.

How can I make this drink less sweet?

Reduce the simple syrup or use a drier cherry liqueur to balance the flavors.

What type of bitters should I use?

Angostura bitters are classic, but cherry or chocolate bitters can add a unique twist.

Can I batch-prep this cocktail?

Yes! Mix all ingredients except the ice and garnish, store in a sealed bottle, and pour over ice when ready to serve.

Conclusion

The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned is a refined and complex cocktail that beautifully blends bourbon’s richness with the depth of smoked cherries and aromatic bitters. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast, a cocktail connoisseur, or simply someone who enjoys bold and smoky drinks, this variation of the classic Old Fashioned is sure to impress. With customizable smoke levels, cherry intensity, and bourbon choices, this drink can be tailored to suit any palate. Try it today and experience the rich, smoky elegance of this modern classic.

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