The Smoked Whiskey Cocktail: A Vanilla Old Fashioned Recipe

Starting off with a flame, this smoked whiskey cocktail is a great starting point for fire-based drinks at home. It's a unique and easy way to create a classic with a twist. Our vanilla old fashioned recipe is made with a bold rye whiskey, our signature El Guapo™ Sweet Potato Syrup, and the fragrant notes of El Guapo™ Vanilla Bitters, resulting in a complex and layered drink that's perfect for a cozy evening.

Smoked Rye Old Fashioned Recipe

This smoked whiskey cocktail is an excellent example of how adding a simple technique can elevate a classic. The smoky aroma and flavor from the torching process perfectly complements the sweet and spicy notes of the whiskey and vanilla bitters.

Yields: 1 cocktail Prep time: 5 minutes

Ingredients

x @hurricane_christa

• 2 oz @13thcolony Rye Whiskey
• .25 oz El Guapo™ Sweet Potato Syrup
• 2 dashes El Guapo™ Vanilla Bitters
• One large rock of ice
• Orange peels, for garnish
• Wooden plank and blowtorch

Instructions

1. Torch one orange peel by hand or on a wooden plank. Once the peel is lit and smoking, place your glass upside down over the smoking peel to allow the smoke to fill the glass.
2. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the rye whiskey, El Guapo™ Sweet Potato Syrup, and El Guapo™ Vanilla Bitters.
3. Stir the mixture until it is well chilled.
4. Turn the smoked glass right side up and place one large rock of ice inside.
5. Strain the chilled cocktail over the ice rock.
6. Garnish with an orange peel and serve immediately.

Looking for more cocktail inspiration? Explore our complete collection of recipes and discover your next favorite drink. Have a question? Contact us for assistance, or visit El Guapo’s homepage to explore everything we offer.

Frequently Asked Questions 

What is a smoked whiskey cocktail?

A smoked whiskey cocktail is a drink where smoke is infused into the glass or the whiskey itself before serving. The smoking process adds a charred, smoky aroma and flavor to the drink, which enhances the whiskey and other ingredients.

How is this a vanilla old fashioned recipe?

This is a vanilla old fashioned recipe because it uses El Guapo™ Vanilla Bitters as a key ingredient. The vanilla bitters add a creamy, sweet, and fragrant layer to the drink that complements the robust flavor of the rye whiskey and the sweetness of the sweet potato syrup.

Can I use a different type of whiskey?

Yes, you can substitute the rye whiskey with bourbon or a different type of whiskey. While rye adds a spicy note, a bourbon will result in a sweeter, smoother cocktail. Experiment to find your favorite flavor combination.

What does El Guapo™ Vanilla Bitters taste like?

Our El Guapo™ Vanilla Bitters provides a rich and creamy flavor profile. It has notes of Madagascar vanilla, toasted marshmallow, and a hint of baking spice, which makes it a perfect pairing for a wide range of spirits, especially aged whiskeys.