Ingredients

• 2 ounces of bourbon
• 1 ounce of peach nectar or juice
• 1/2 ounce of simple syrup
• 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
• 1 small peach, sliced
• 1 cinnamon stick
• Wood chips for smoking (recommended: applewood or cherrywood)
• Ice
• Orange peel (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Smoking Tray

Begin by soaking the wood chips in water for about 30 minutes to ensure a slow burn and optimal smoky flavor. Once soaked, drain the chips and place them in the bottom of a smoking tray or a heatproof dish.

Step 2: Prepare the Glass

Select a sturdy tumbler or an Old Fashioned glass. Lightly char the cinnamon stick with a flame until it starts to release a fragrant smoke. Place the cinnamon stick at the bottom of the glass.

Step 3: Smoke the Glass

Using a kitchen torch or a lighter, ignite the wood chips in the smoking tray. Once they start smoldering, quickly invert the glass over the tray, allowing it to fill with the aromatic smoke. Let it sit for a minute or until desired smokiness is achieved.

Step 4: Muddle the Peach

In a cocktail shaker or mixing glass, muddle the sliced peach until it releases its juices and becomes slightly mashed. This will help extract the peach’s luscious flavors.

Step 5: Build the Cocktail

To the muddled peach in the shaker, add bourbon, peach nectar, simple syrup, and bitters. Fill the shaker with ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds to combine all the flavors.

Step 6: Strain and Serve

Carefully strain the cocktail mixture into the smoked glass, allowing its smoky essence to infuse the drink further. Fill the glass with ice cubes, garnish with an orange peel, and give it a gentle stir to incorporate all the elements.

Final Touch: Sip, Savor, and Welcome the New Year!

As you lift the silky concoction to your lips, you’ll be greeted by the sweet aroma of peaches and the earthy embrace of smoke. The smooth bourbon, perfectly balanced with the peach nectar and a touch of sweetness, will take your taste buds on a journey of delightful flavors. Sip slowly, savoring every nuance, while toasting to a new year filled with joy, love, and endless possibilities.

Recipe Variations

– Feeling adventurous? Swap bourbon for smoky mezcal to elevate the smoky profile.

– If fresh peaches are out of season, you can use peach puree or frozen peach slices (thawed).

– Add a splash of sparkling water or ginger beer for a refreshing twist.

– Experiment with different types of wood chips, such as hickory or mesquite, to explore unique smoky notes.

With this Old Smokey Peach Old Fashioned recipe, you have a remarkable drink to usher in the new year. Cheers to great company, cherished memories, and a wonderful culinary adventure!