Smoke on the Water Cocktail

The Smoke on the Water cocktail is a bold and smoky drink that blends deep, rich flavors with a touch of sweetness and citrus. Inspired by its name, this cocktail often features smoky spirits like mezcal or peated Scotch, combined with fruit or herbal elements to create a well-balanced, intriguing drink.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Smoky and Mysterious: The perfect mix of mezcal or peated Scotch with complementary flavors.
• Balanced Flavors: A combination of smoky, citrusy, and slightly sweet notes.
• Visually Stunning: Often served with a smoky garnish for a dramatic presentation.
• Great for Cocktail Lovers: Ideal for those who enjoy bold and complex drinks.
• Easy to Customize: Adjust the sweetness, smoke level, or fruit flavors to your liking.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 oz mezcal (or peated Scotch for a smokier flavor)
• ¾ oz fresh lemon juice
• ¾ oz honey syrup (or simple syrup)
• ½ oz cherry liqueur (or muddled fresh cherries)
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice

Optional Garnishes:

• Luxardo cherry
• Smoked rosemary sprig
• Citrus peel
• Smoked sea salt rim

Directions

this recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Cocktail

1. Mix Ingredients:
   • In a cocktail shaker, combine mezcal (or Scotch), lemon juice, honey syrup, cherry liqueur, and bitters.
2. Shake Well:
   • Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 10 seconds.

Step 2: Strain and Serve

1. Strain into a Glass:
   • Strain into a chilled rocks glass over a large ice cube.
2. Optional Smoke Effect:
   • If using a smoked garnish, light a rosemary sprig or wood chip and trap the smoke in the glass before serving.
3. Garnish:
   • Add a Luxardo cherry, a citrus peel twist, or a smoked rosemary sprig for aroma.

Step 3: Enjoy!

• Sip slowly and enjoy the layered flavors of smoke, fruit, and citrus.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 1 cocktail
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Total Time: 5 minutes

Variations

• Sweeter Version: Use maple syrup instead of honey syrup.
• Stronger Smoke Flavor: Use Islay Scotch or smoke the glass with a smoking gun.
• Fruity Twist: Add a splash of cherry juice or pomegranate juice.
• Spicy Kick: Muddle a slice of jalapeño before shaking.
• Non-Alcoholic Version: Use smoked black tea and cherry juice instead of mezcal.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can pre-mix the ingredients (without ice) and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
• No Reheating Needed: Just shake or stir before serving.

FAQs

What is the best mezcal for this cocktail?

A smoky, balanced mezcal like Del Maguey Vida or Montelobos works well.

Can I use Scotch instead of mezcal?

Yes! A peated Scotch like Laphroaig or Ardbeg gives an even smokier depth.

What’s the best way to create a smoky effect?

Use a smoking gun, burn a rosemary sprig, or smoke the glass with a wood chip.

Can I make this cocktail less smoky?

Yes! Use a milder mezcal or a blended Scotch instead of peated Scotch.

What glass should I use?

A rocks glass (Old Fashioned glass) works best.

How do I make honey syrup?

Mix equal parts honey and hot water, then stir until dissolved.

Can I batch-make this for a party?

Yes! Mix all ingredients in a pitcher (without ice) and shake individual servings when ready.

What pairs well with this cocktail?

Smoked meats, dark chocolate, or roasted nuts complement the flavors well.

Can I use a different fruit liqueur?

Yes! Try blackberry liqueur or raspberry liqueur for a twist.

What if I don’t have cherry liqueur?

Muddle fresh cherries with simple syrup as a substitute.

Conclusion

The Smoke on the Water cocktail is a bold, smoky, and slightly sweet drink perfect for those who love complex flavors. Whether made with mezcal or peated Scotch, it delivers a rich and intriguing experience in every sip. Try this cocktail for your next gathering or special occasion and impress your guests with its deep, smoky character!

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