Smoked Whiskey Sour: A Smoky Twist on a Classic Cocktail

The whiskey sour is a beloved classic in the world of cocktails, but adding a smoky flair elevates it to something memorable. This smoked whiskey sour recipe will walk you through crafting a perfectly balanced cocktail with just the right amount of smoke.

The Best Whiskey for a Smoked Whiskey Sour

For this cocktail, bourbon offers a smooth, sweet base that pairs well with the smoky element. Brands like Buffalo Trace or Woodford Reserve are excellent choices for their rich, caramel notes.

If you prefer a sharper profile, opt for a rye whiskey such as Bulleit Rye. It brings a spicy, bold flavor that balances the tartness of the lemon and complements the smoke.

Smoked Whiskey Sour Ingredients

Here’s a quick rundown of what you’ll need for the perfect smoked whiskey sour:

• 2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
• 3/4 oz fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 oz simple syrup
• 1 egg white (optional for added froth)
• Ice
• Smoked cinnamon sticks or rosemary sprig for garnish
• A smoking gun or torch for the smoke

How to Make a Smoked Whiskey Sour

Step 1: Combine Ingredients

In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, lemon juice, and simple syrup. If you’re using egg white, add that as well for a silky texture. This is optional but creates a rich froth that balances the tartness of the sour.

Step 2: Dry Shake

If you’re using egg white, start with a dry shake—shake the ingredients without ice. This emulsifies the egg white and gives your cocktail a creamy texture.

Step 3: Add Ice and Shake Again

Now, add ice to the shaker and shake well for about 20 seconds. This chills the drink and dilutes it just enough to balance the flavors.

Step 4: Smoke the Glass

Using a smoking gun or whiskey smoking kit, ignite a small amount of wood chips—cherry or hickory work best for this cocktail. Capture the smoke inside your rocks glass with a large cube of ice.

You can opt for a glass smoking cloche, which lets the drink rest in a dome filled with smoke for as long as you prefer. This technique keeps the smoke contained longer, deepening the flavor with each sip.

Step 5: Strain and Serve

Once your glass is infused with smoke, strain the cocktail into the glass. Garnish with a smoked cinnamon stick or a rosemary sprig, both of which complement the smoky notes.

Achieving the Perfect Smoky Flavor

The smoke is the highlight of this smoked whiskey sour. Using a smoking gun allows you to easily infuse your drink with smoke without overpowering the delicate balance of flavors. For a subtler infusion, try smoked cinnamon sticks or a rosemary sprig—both of which add a touch of herbal smokiness to the cocktail.

Tip: If you’re using a torch, hold it carefully and pass it over the garnish until you see the smoke rise. Quickly trap the smoke inside the glass to infuse the drink.

Best Smoky Garnishes

• Smoked cinnamon sticks: Adds a warm, spiced flavor that enhances the bourbon or rye base.
• Rosemary sprig: Lightly torch the rosemary for a woodsy aroma that pairs well with the sour elements.
• Lemon twist: A simple twist of lemon peel provides brightness to balance the smoky undertones.

Pro Tips for the Best Smoked Whiskey Sour

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh lemon juice and homemade simple syrup give your cocktail a cleaner, crisper taste.
• Control the smoke: Too much smoke can overpower the drink. Start with a small amount and increase if you prefer a more intense flavor.
• Serve in a chilled glass: For the best experience, use a chilled rocks glass to keep the cocktail cold without overly diluting it.

Variations on the Smoked Whiskey Sour

Looking to experiment? Here are a few twists on the smoked whiskey sour that are sure to please:

• Rosemary Whiskey Sour: Swap out the cinnamon garnish for a torch-roasted rosemary sprig for a fresh, herbal twist.
• Maple Smoked Whiskey Sour: Replace the simple syrup with maple syrup for a richer, deeper sweetness. This pairs especially well with bourbon.
• Scotch Sour: For a peaty, more intense smoke flavor, use a single malt scotch like Laphroaig instead of bourbon or rye.

Pairings for a Smoked Whiskey Sour

This cocktail’s bold, smoky profile makes it a perfect match for hearty foods. Pair it with smoked meats or even smoked chicken for a seamless dining experience. The smoked whiskey sour also works well with winter dishes like roasted vegetables or grilled steak, where the smoke complements the richness of the food.

Cheers!

The smoked whiskey sour is a must-try for any cocktail smoking enthusiast looking to elevate a classic whiskey sour recipe. Whether you use bourbon for a sweeter profile or rye for a spicier kick, the addition of smoke transforms this sour cocktail into something unforgettable. Grab your smoking gun, pick your favorite whiskey, and enjoy the perfect blend of tart, sweet, and smoky flavors.