The Smoked Manhattan is a sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, offering a deep, complex flavor enhanced by rich smokiness. This elegant drink combines rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters, but takes things up a notch with a dramatic smoky finish, infusing it with a barrel-aged essence.
Perfect for whiskey lovers and cocktail enthusiasts, the Smoked Manhattan is ideal for special occasions, after-dinner sipping, or impressing guests at a home bar. Whether you use a smoking gun, a torch, or a smoked glass technique, this cocktail elevates traditional mixology with a bold, aromatic flair.
Ingredients
For the Smoked Manhattan:
- 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon – Rye offers spice, while bourbon adds smooth sweetness
- 1 oz sweet vermouth – Adds depth and a hint of herbal sweetness
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters – Enhances complexity with warm, spiced notes
- 1 large ice cube or sphere – Helps maintain a smooth dilution
- Smoke infusion (wood chips, smoked glass, or smoked cherrywood) – Adds a deep, smoky character
For Garnish:
- Luxardo cherry or brandied cherry – A rich, slightly tart complement
- Orange peel (expressed and flamed, optional) – Adds a bright citrus aroma
Preparation
Step 1: Chill the Glass
- Place a coupe or rocks glass in the freezer for a few minutes to chill.
Step 2: Mix the Cocktail
- In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey (or bourbon), sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Fill with ice and stir for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
Step 3: Smoke the Glass or Cocktail
- Option 1: Smoked Glass Method
- Use a torch to burn a wood chip, cinnamon stick, or cherrywood plank on a heatproof surface.
- Immediately place the chilled glass upside down over the smoke, trapping it for about 30 seconds.
- Turn the glass upright and pour in the cocktail.
- Option 2: Smoke Infusion (Smoking Gun)
- Fill a smoking gun with wood chips (oak, cherrywood, or hickory).
- Place the hose into the mixing glass, cover it, and infuse smoke for 15-20 seconds.
- Stir once more, then strain into the prepared glass.
- Option 3: Smoked Ice Cube Method
- Freeze water with a tiny piece of smoked wood or smoked salt for a slow, continuous smoky release.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
- Express an orange peel over the drink to release its oils (flame it for extra aroma).
- Drop in a Luxardo cherry for the finishing touch.
Variation
1. Mezcal Smoked Manhattan
- Replace whiskey with mezcal for a naturally smoky, agave-forward take.
2. Black Walnut Smoked Manhattan
- Add ½ oz walnut liqueur and use black walnut bitters for a nutty depth.
3. Barrel-Aged Smoked Manhattan
- Age the cocktail in a small charred oak barrel for 2-4 weeks for enhanced depth.
4. Cold Brew Smoked Manhattan
- Add ½ oz cold brew coffee liqueur for a bold, rich coffee-infused version.
Cooking Notes
- For a Stronger Smoke Flavor, Let the Smoke Sit in the glass for a full minute before pouring.
- For a Milder Smoke, Swirl the Cocktail in a Smoked Glass Instead of direct infusion.
- For an Even Smoother Drink, Use Large Ice Cubes to slow down dilution.
Serving Suggestions
- Best Glassware: Serve in a coupe glass for elegance or a rocks glass with a large ice sphere.
- Food Pairing: Pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, smoked meats, or charcuterie.
- Occasions: Perfect for cocktail nights, after-dinner sipping, or a sophisticated gathering.
Tips
- Use High-Quality Whiskey – Aged bourbon or rye with vanilla and spice notes works best.
- Experiment with Different Wood Chips – Oak, cherrywood, or even applewood create unique smoky profiles.
- Store Sweet Vermouth Properly – Keep it refrigerated after opening to maintain freshness.
Prep Time:
5 minutes
Cooking Time:
0 minutes
Total Time:
5 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: ~175 kcal
- Protein: ~0g
- Sodium: ~5mg
- Carbohydrates: ~7g
- Sugar: ~4g
FAQs
1. Can I make a Smoked Manhattan without a smoking gun?
Yes! You can burn wood chips on a fire-safe surface and capture the smoke under a glass.
2. What’s the best whiskey for a Smoked Manhattan?
A rye whiskey (like Rittenhouse or Bulleit Rye) for spiciness or bourbon (like Woodford Reserve) for a sweeter balance.
3. How can I make the cocktail less smoky?
Use a smoked glass technique instead of direct infusion to get a subtle smokiness.
4. What bitters work best?
Angostura bitters are classic, but chocolate, walnut, or orange bitters add depth.
5. How do I store wood chips for smoking?
Keep them dry and sealed in a container to maintain their flavor.
Conclusion
The Smoked Manhattan is a bold, aromatic, and deeply flavorful take on a timeless classic. The infusion of wood smoke elevates the whiskey’s warmth, the vermouth’s sweetness, and the bitters’ complexity, creating a cocktail that’s refined, intriguing, and unforgettable. Whether you’re crafting it for a special occasion, a whiskey-tasting night, or simply to enjoy a beautifully layered drink, this smoky masterpiece is worth every sip. Cheers! 🥃🔥