Smoky cocktails aren’t just a trend — they’re a full sensory experience. The Smoldered Crimson Cherry Smash leans into that philosophy with a balance of bourbon warmth, tart cherry brightness, and gentle smoked sweetness that elevates the entire drink. The smoke doesn’t overpower; it enhances each sip with a subtle campfire-like finish.
By smoking the syrup instead of the liquor, the drink keeps its clarity and smooth composition. This technique gives you control over the smokiness level while allowing the bourbon and cherry flavors to shine. Using cherry wood in particular reinforces the drink’s fruity undertones, creating a deeper and more cohesive flavor.
The lemon juice and bitters add structure and lift to an otherwise rich cocktail profile. The result is a slow-sipping drink that feels indulgent but well balanced — ideal for evenings spent around the smoker, holiday gatherings, or simply unwinding after a long day.
Garnishing with fresh cherries and a twisted lemon ribbon adds a bright contrast and a festive look. For those who want an extra layer of theatrics, a briefly torched cherry wood chip gives a warm aromatic flourish without overwhelming the drink.
Ingredients
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1 oz dark cherry cordial
- 1 oz smoked citrus syrup
- 1 oz lemon juice
- 3 dashes cherry bitters
Instructions
- Smoke the SyrupCombine simple syrup in an aluminum pan and place it in the smoker at 180°F for 20–30 minutes using cherry wood. Cool completely.
- Build the DrinkAdd bourbon, cherry cordial, smoked citrus syrup, lemon juice, and bitters into a cocktail shaker filled with ice.
- ShakeShake vigorously until the metal shaker frosts.
- ServeStrain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- FinishGarnish with cherries and a lemon ribbon. Optionally ignite a cherry wood chip for 1–2 seconds for a subtle smoky aroma.