Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (2024)

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Take your classic Manhattan to a new level with this Smoked Manhattan Recipe! Give a subtle smoke flavor to a great drink, to create my new favorite co*cktail!

Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (1)

When it comes to crafting co*cktails, one essential element that can truly elevate the experience is smoke. Adding a touch of smoky flavor to a drink not only enhances its complexity but also creates a captivating sensory experience. Whether it's using smoked ingredients or incorporating a smoking technique, the use of smoke at the top of co*cktails adds an enticing twist.

It enthralls the senses with its alluring aroma and mesmerizing visual appeal, making every sip a unique and memorable adventure. From classic favorites like Smoked Old Fashioneds to innovative creations like smoked margaritas, the inclusion of smoke on top of co*cktails brings a delightful and unexpected dimension to any drinking occasion.

Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (2)

Ingredients for Smoked Manhattan Recipe

Rye Whiskey - Rye is the key ingredient for this classic co*cktail. This whiskey is distilled from grain where the mash bill is at least 51% rye grain. This whiskey unveils an intricate symphony of flavors that tantalize the most discerning palates.

Sweet Vermouth - This fortified wine had its origin as a medicinal tonic in ancient civilizations. Over the years, it emerged as a pivotal ingredient in several co*cktails such as this Manhattan and well as the classic Negroni.

Angostura Bitters - The bitters do a wonderful job of adding flavor and bringing the co*cktail together. I use aromatic bitters, you can also try this with orange bitters.

Maraschino Cherry - A sweet classic garnish. If you can find bourbon cherries, those are the best.

Ice cubes - And of course, you will need a few ice cubes for the mixing glass as well as the rocks glass if you are serving it that way.

Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (3)

What equipment is needed for a Smoked Manhattan?

Mixing Glass - Mixing glass will allow you to properly combine all the ingredients and stir them to get the proper chill for the co*cktail.

co*cktail Strainer - This allows you to pour the co*cktail into your serving glasses without adding melted ice cubes.

Rocks Glass or a co*cktail Glass - Deciding if you want to serve this straight up or on the rocks is an important decision.

Smoker and Woodchips - You have a few options for smoking the co*cktail. I recommend using a co*cktail smoker. I think these create the best smoked co*cktails. It sits on top of the co*cktail glass. Then you have a smoking chip and ignite it with a kitchen torch. The smoke drops through the holes in the smoker to flavor the co*cktail. You also have the option to use a handheld smoker. Just follow the instructions for whatever model you have and add a layer of smoke to the top of the co*cktail glass.

Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (4)

How to Make a Smoked Manhattan

Add about half a cup of ice along with the rye, vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass. Using a long spoon, stir the co*cktail for about 5 seconds. You will feel the outside of the mixing glass getting cold as you stir. Then strain the co*cktail into the serving glass of your choice. Garnish with a co*cktail cherry.

Place the co*cktail smoker on top of the glass. Next, add wood chips to the smoker and ignite them with your butane torch for about 5 seconds as the smoke falls into the co*cktail. Place the glass in front of your guest before removing the smoker. As you remove the smoker, the smoke will swirl and greater a beautiful dramatic presentation both visually and aromatically. Enjoy!

Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (5)

Common Questions

What is a Smoked Manhattan co*cktail?

In the realm of classic co*cktails, few drinks command as much respect and admiration as the Manhattan. This timeless concoction, traditionally made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, has captured the hearts of co*cktail enthusiasts for over a century. But what if we were to add a smoky twist to this beloved libation? Enter the Smoked Manhattan – an innovative variation that infuses the drink with an alluring depth of flavor and complexity.

The concept of smoking co*cktails has gained popularity in recent years, as mixologists seek new ways to push boundaries and elevate traditional recipes. By introducing smoke into the equation, they aim to enhance aromatic profiles while imparting an intriguing smokiness that tantalizes both the nose and palate.

Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (6)

How do I use a Smoke Top?

To use a co*cktail smoker, start by preparing the co*cktail you want to smoke. Choose a co*cktail with flavors that will complement the smoky aroma, such as an Old Fashioned or a Whiskey Sour. Once your co*cktail is ready, load wood chips of your choice into the chamber of the smoker. Popular options include applewood, hickory, or cherrywood. Light the wood chips using a lighter or torch and let them smolder for a few seconds until they begin producing smoke. Quickly cover the smoking chamber with a lid or glass dome to trap the smoke inside. Place your prepared co*cktail glass under the lid and allow it to fill with smoke for about 30 seconds to a minute, depending on how strong you want the smoky flavor to be. Finally, remove the lid and carefully pour your smoked co*cktail into the glass, capturing all the delicious flavors and aromas from the smoker. Enjoy!

What are some other craft co*cktail recipes?

If you're looking to try some new and delicious co*cktails, we highly recommend giving our Banana Mama a go. With its blend of tropical flavors and smooth texture, it's the perfect choice for those who love fruity and refreshing drinks.

For a twist on the classic Paloma, our Pink Paloma is a must-try with its vibrant pink hue and grapefruit-infused taste.

If you're a fan of bourbon, be sure to indulge in our Bourbon Cream or Bourbon Sangria, both offering a delightful combination of rich flavors and spirits.

And for those seeking a unique and floral experience, our Lavender Lemonade is just what you need - its fragrant lavender notes perfectly complement the zesty lemonade base.

So why wait? Explore these tantalizing options and elevate your co*cktail game today!

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Recipe

Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (8)

Smoked Manhattan

Paul

Take your classic Manhattan to a new level with this Smoked Manhattan Recipe! Give a subtle smoke flavor to a great drink, to create my new favorite co*cktail!

5 from 1 vote

Print Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Calories 203.5 kcal

Ingredients

  • 2 oz rye whiskey
  • 1 oz sweet vermouth
  • 2 dashes bitters
  • 1 maraschino cherry for garnish

Instructions

  • In a co*cktail mixing glass, add half a cup of ice.

  • Add the rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters.

  • Stir for 5 seconds.

  • Strain into a co*cktail glass or rocks glass.

  • Place a co*cktail smoker on top of the glass. Add a pinch of wood chips. Ignite woodchips with a torch lighter to create smoke for about 5 seconds.

  • Remove the smoker from the glass and garnish with a cherry.

Nutrition

Calories: 203.5kcalCarbohydrates: 7.1gProtein: 0.01gFat: 0.01gSodium: 0.2mgPotassium: 1.6mgFiber: 0.2gSugar: 2.3gVitamin A: 2.3IUCalcium: 2.7mgIron: 0.03mg

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Smoked Manhattan Recipe : How to Smoke a co*cktail (2024)

FAQs

How do you smoke a co*cktail? ›

Start by chilling your glass so the smoke will stick to it. Set whatever you are smoking — with a blow torch or smoking gun — on fire and quickly trap the smoke inside your now-overturned glass. The smoke will disappear, and then it's time to pour. Flip the glass and execute the pour in front of your guests.

What's in a smoky Manhattan? ›

Smoky Manhattan
  • 1 bunch fresh rosemary.
  • 1 cup of ice.
  • 4 ounces bourbon or rye whiskey.
  • 2 ounces sweet vermouth.
  • 4 dashes orange bitters.
  • 3 extra-large ice cubes.
  • 2 pieces orange peel.

How do you smoke wood chips for co*cktails? ›

Share:
  1. Lay a baking sheet down to create a safe working surface.
  2. Arrange a cedar plank onto the sheet.
  3. Place ½ cup Jack Daniel's Whiskey Barrel Smoking Chips onto the center of the plank.
  4. Using a long lighter, carefully ignite the wood chips until just smoking.
  5. Meanwhile, place ice cubes in a glass to chill and moisten.

How long should I smoke my co*cktail? ›

The longer you let the smoke and drink mix, the better the flavor will be. Just remember not to leave it to over smoke. After watching the smoke infuse the co*cktail for 1-5 minutes, remove the dome carefully, put out the wood chips, and serve immediately.

Do you smoke co*cktail before or after? ›

When preparing a smoked co*cktail, such as a smoked whiskey, old fashioned, or manhattan, you may prefer to smoke the glass first before adding the drink to the glass. With this method the smoke will rest in the glass and cling to the glass as well as any ice which maybe included.

What's the difference between a smoked Manhattan and an Old Fashioned? ›

The main difference between the two co*cktails lies in the sweeteners used in each. The Old Fashioned calls for sugar, either as a cube or in simple syrup format (where sugar is dissolved into water), whereas the Manhattan employs sweet vermouth, a type of fortified wine.

What is a perfect Manhattan made of? ›

The perfect Manhattan is indeed a great co*cktail, though the name doesn't refer to its perfection. Instead, it adds dry vermouth to the classic Manhattan's trio of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. It makes a delightful dinner drink, whether you enjoy it before, during, or after the meal.

What's the difference between a Manhattan and an Old Fashioned? ›

Both co*cktails call for whisky and Angostura bitters, but the defining factor lies in their sweetening agents. The Old Fashioned opts for straightforward sugar or syrup, helping to soften the whisky. In contrast the Manhattan favours a sweet vermouth – adding fruity and caramel flavours into the mix.

What alcohol is good to smoke with? ›

Best Spirits for Smoked co*cktails

However, smoke tends to go beautifully with whiskey – bourbon, scotch, rye, etc. A co*cktail made with a nice smoky mezcal can also be wonderfully complemented by smoke. Spiced rum also works well. An old fashioned co*cktail and Manhattans are among the most popular smoked co*cktails.

What is the best wood chips to smoke co*cktails with? ›

The best woods for smoked co*cktails are generally those that impart a flavor profile complementary to the spirit and other ingredients in the drink. Fruitwoods like apple and cherry offer a subtle sweetness that works well with lighter spirits like gin or vodka.

Do you wet wood chips before smoking? ›

The thought is that doing this will slow combustion and create a better-flavored smoke than dry wood would. In truth, soaking your wood chips and chunks isn't necessary and here's why. Wood chips and chunks that have been soaked have to get rid of any moisture before they can produce smoke.

Do you keep adding wood chips when smoking? ›

The number of woodchips you use will depend on how long you'll be smoking meat. Remember to keep adding new woodchips to the tray every hour of cooking time to keep the flavors rich.

What's the point of smoking a co*cktail? ›

Smoking a co*cktail uplifts the drink in many ways. It brings out the subtle notes and maximizes the flavour. It also engages with other senses of the drinker: the smell, the appearance, apart from the taste and mouthfeel.

How do you smoke co*cktails without a smoker? ›

How to Smoke a Glass
  1. Prepare your co*cktail in a shaker or mixing glass.
  2. Wet your co*cktail glass.
  3. Light the wood chips on a heat-safe board, and place the empty co*cktail glass upside-down over the chips to absorb the flavor.
  4. Pour the co*cktail into the smoked glass—it's ready to drink.
Feb 24, 2023

What is a co*cktail smoke? ›

The idea behind smoking a drink is to allow the liquid and the smoke flavors to combine into a new unique flavor. The more time you allow this to happen, the better the eventual flavor.

Do you need a torch to smoke a co*cktail? ›

Culinary Torch or Lighter

The first thing you'll need is a reliable heat source to ignite the smoking material. A culinary torch is perfect for this, as it provides a concentrated flame that can quickly ignite wood chips, herbs, or spices. Alternatively, a long-stem lighter can also work in a pinch.

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