Smoking cocktails has become one of my favorite ways to add depth and flair to drinks. Not only does it enhance the flavors, but it also turns the whole cocktail experience into something much more engaging. Whether you're experimenting at your home bar or hosting friends, knowing how to use smoke can transform your drink game. There are different techniques to achieve various effects, from subtle hints of smoke to bold infusions.

Here’s a guide I’ve put together based on my experience, to help you explore smoking techniques and how to use them with the right spirits. This way, you’ll be able to create unforgettable cocktails at home, just like a pro!

Why smoke your drinks? Smoke adds complexity to drinks, and it works particularly well with robust spirits like whiskey, bourbon, mezcal, and dark rum. These spirits have the body to carry the smoky flavors without losing their natural characteristics. On the other hand, lighter spirits like gin and vodka can get overwhelmed by smoke, so I usually avoid smoking those to preserve their delicate flavors.

Here’s how I approach cocktail smoking, depending on the level of intensity and the presentation I’m going for.

• Light and Subtle: Flavour Blaster
  If you’re looking for a light, aromatic touch without too much intensity, the Flavour Blaster is a modern tool I use when I want to add a quick, subtle hint of smoke. It creates smoke-filled bubbles that rest on top of the drink and burst just before you take a sip, releasing the aroma. It’s a fun, visual way to add smoke without heavily infusing the drink itself.
  My tip: Try it with cocktails like a whiskey sour or a mezcal margarita, where the bubble adds a playful layer of smoke without overpowering the core flavors.

• Medium Intensity: Smoke Gun & Glass Cloche
  When I want to bring in a bit more smokiness without going overboard, I reach for a smoke gun paired with a glass cloche. After finishing the cocktail, I place it under the cloche and fill it with smoke. The smoke gently infuses the drink, and when you lift the cloche, it adds a bit of drama to the presentation as the smoke swirls out.
  My tip: This method is perfect for classics like the Old Fashioned or Negroni. The smoke enhances the caramel and spice notes in whiskey or aged rum, making it a fantastic match.
  
  
• Bold and Intense: Wooden Smoker with Glass Dome
  For a richer, more intense smoke, I love using a wooden smoker on the glass, combined with a glass dome. This method is ideal when I want the smoke to really integrate with the cocktail. I light the wood chips and place the smoker on top of the glass, then cover it with the dome to trap the smoke. The result is a bold infusion of smoke into the drink, which is perfect for heavier spirits.
  My tip: I usually reserve this method for dark rum or aged tequila cocktails, like a Smoked Manhattan or Rum Old Fashioned, where the smoky flavors can blend beautifully with the deep, molasses-like sweetness of the spirit.
  
  
• Flavor and Smoke with Torched Herbs and Spices
  One of the most effective ways to add both flavor and smoke to a cocktail is by using a torch to burn aromatics like rosemary or cinnamon. This method not only creates a visually stunning effect but also infuses the drink with a smoky flavor that is slightly more natural and herbal. The best part? You can use this technique to smoke the glass itself before pouring the drink, or torch the ingredients as a garnish for an extra layer of flavor.
  My tip: Place a sprig of rosemary or a stick of cinnamon on a heatproof surface and lightly torch it until it starts smoking. Then, either capture the smoke in the glass before adding the cocktail or use the torched herb as a garnish to add both aroma and taste.
  
  
• Deep Infusion: Smoking the Spirit in a Bottle
  For those of you who really want to step up your cocktail smoking, try infusing the spirit directly before mixing the drink. I use a smoke gun to add smoke into a bottle filled with the spirit, then gently shake it to allow the smoke to infuse for a few minutes. This creates a deeply smoky spirit that adds a bold base to cocktails.
  My tip: This method is perfect for bourbon or dark rum. Once the spirit is smoked, let it sit for a few minutes before mixing your cocktail to let the flavors develop fully. It’s an excellent technique for pre-batched drinks.

When it comes to smoking cocktails, it’s all about finding the right balance. I love experimenting with different tools, from the Flavour Blaster for light, fun touches of smoke, to the wooden smoker, torch, and glass cloche for more intense experiences.

Whether you want a dramatic presentation or a more subtle infusion, there’s a smoking method for every occasion. The key is to experiment and find what works best for your taste.

Smoking cocktails isn’t just about taste—it’s about transforming the entire drinking experience. From the light, aromatic touch of a smoke bubble to the bold infusion of a smoked spirit or torched garnish, these techniques bring creativity and excitement to your home bar.

Feel free to experiment with these methods and make them your own. If you ever need advice on tools or techniques, I’m always happy to chat and help you create the perfect smoked cocktail at home!