Smoked Manhattan Recipe (+ How to Get Your Cocktails Smoky)

When it comes to timeless cocktails, the Manhattan is a favorite among whiskey enthusiasts. But in today’s cocktail renaissance, the smoked manhattan is turning heads with its smoky flavor and twist on the classic cocktail.

Here's everything you need to craft a perfect smoked manhattan recipe at home, including the best whiskey to use and how to get that distinctive smoke.

The Best Whiskey for a Smoked Manhattan

A Manhattan traditionally features whiskey, vermouth, and bitters. However, the key to a truly memorable smoked manhattan lies in the whiskey selection. While rye whiskey is the traditional choice, bourbon is an excellent option if you're seeking a sweeter profile. For a bolder smoked manhattan cocktail, opt for bourbon with rich caramel and vanilla undertones, like Woodford Reserve or Buffalo Trace.

If you're more of a purist, a high-quality rye whiskey such as Bulleit Rye or WhistlePig will offer the spice and warmth that balance out the smoke. Whiskey and bourbon lovers alike will appreciate how the smoke elevates the natural flavors of these spirits.

Ingredients for a Smoked Manhattan Recipe

Now that you’ve selected your whiskey, let’s look at the full list of ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey

• 1 oz sweet vermouth (look for brands like Carpano Antica for depth)

• 3 dashes aromatic bitters

• Ice

• 2 cocktail cherries (Luxardo cherries preferred for that rich syrup flavor)

• Wood chips (cherry or mesquite are popular choices)

• A smoking gun or handheld smoker

How to Achieve the Smoky Flavor

The smoke is what makes this version of the Manhattan a showstopper. You’ll need a handheld smoking gun or a cocktail smoker, both of which trap the smoke inside your glass for maximum effect.

1. Prepare the Smoke: Using a whiskey smoking gun or handheld smoker, place a pinch of wood chips—hickory or cherry wood chips work best—into the chamber. Light the chips with a butane torch to get that smoke rolling off the top. Cover the cocktail glass with a dome to trap the smoke inside.

2. Craft the Cocktail: While the glass is infusing with smoke, combine all ingredients (whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters) in a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Stir gently to mix without diluting.

3. Infuse the Cocktail with Smoke: Once your glass is filled with smoke, remove the dome and strain the mixture into the smoked glass. Garnish with maraschino cherries or a twist of orange peel for a touch of citrus.

Smoking Gun or Cloche: Which to Use?

For beginners, a smoking gun is an easy, versatile tool to achieve a subtle smoke flavor. Just a pinch of wood chips is all you need to create the ideal smoked manhattan. Experiment with different types of wood chips to find your preferred flavor. Cherry chips bring a mild sweetness, while mesquite offers a bolder, earthy note.

You can also use a glass smoking cloche, which allows the prepared drink to sit in a dome of smoke for as long as you’d like. This method traps the smoke for longer, adding layers of complexity to each sip.

Best Whiskeys for a Smoked Manhattan Cocktail

While rye whiskey offers a spicier backbone, many prefer the sweetness of bourbon in a smoked manhattan. Here are some top smokey whiskeys:

• Buffalo Trace Bourbon: Balanced with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak, this bourbon shines when paired with a smoky twist.

• Bulleit Rye: A classic choice for any manhattan recipe, its spicy profile stands up to the smoke.

• Woodford Reserve Bourbon: Smooth, rich, and full-bodied, this bourbon makes for an elevated take on the smoked manhattan cocktail.

Pro Tips for the Best Smoked Manhattan Recipe

• Use smoked ice: Fill a metal pan with water and insert it for a few minutes in a covered charcoal grill. This will infuse the water with smoke, and then freeze in an ice tray as usual!

• Perfect your garnish: A maraschino cherry soaked in Luxardo syrup or a freshly peeled orange twist adds both sweetness and visual appeal to your smoked manhattan.

• Control the smoke: Too much smoke can overpower the drink. Start with a small amount and adjust based on your taste.

Smoky Variations and Pairings

The smoked manhattan pairs wonderfully with rich, savory foods like smoked meats or even smoked chicken. Try serving it with a smoked brisket sandwich for a flavor-packed dinner. The smoky undertones of the drink also complement charcuterie boards, especially when featuring strong, bold cheeses and cured meats.

Looking for more smoked cocktail ideas? Try a smoked old fashioned, which uses bourbon and simple syrup for a sweeter, more robust drink. Both are favorites among cocktail enthusiasts looking to elevate their drinking experience.

Cheers!

Whether you're a long-time fan of the classic manhattan or new to smoking cocktails, this smoked manhattan recipe is a must-try for any whiskey lover. By carefully selecting the right whiskey and using a smoking gun, you can easily create a smoked manhattan cocktail that's sure to impress.

So grab your smoking chip, light that torch, and enjoy a smoked manhattan that’s not just a drink, but an experience.