Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned

Description: The Smoked Cherry Old Fashioned is a sophisticated twist on the classic Old Fashioned, combining the rich, smoky flavors of cherry and bourbon with a delicate infusion technique. This cocktail features a smoked cherry syrup and an intricately infused bourbon that elevate the traditional drink to a new level of luxury and complexity. It is served in an old-fashioned glass, garnished with a smoked cherry and an orange twist. Ingredients: - 2 oz bourbon (infused with toasted oak chips and dried cherries) - 0.5 oz smoked cherry syrup - 2 dashes Angostura bitters - Smoked cherry and orange twist for garnish - Large ice cube Infused Bourbon: 1.5 cups bourbon 1 tbsp toasted oak chips 1/3 cup dried cherries Smoked Cherry Syrup: 1 cup fresh cherries, pitted 1 cup sugar 1 cup water Hickory wood chips for smoking Infused Bourbon Directions: 1. Combine bourbon, toasted oak chips, and dried cherries in a large mason jar. 2. Seal tightly and let it sit in a cool, dark place for 3-5 days, shaking gently once a day. 3. Strain the mixture through a fine mesh strainer or cheesecloth to remove the solids. Smoked Cherry Syrup Directions: 1. Place pitted cherries, sugar, and water in a medium saucepan over medium heat. 2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. 3. Remove from heat and strain through a fine mesh strainer, pressing gently on the cherries to extract the juice. 4. Pour the syrup into a heatproof container and place it in a smoker preheated to 225°F. 5. Add hickory wood chips to the smoker and smoke the syrup for 20-30 minutes. 6. Let the syrup cool and store in the refrigerator. Cocktail Directions: 1. In an old-fashioned glass, add the smoked cherry syrup and Angostura bitters. 2. Add a large ice cube to the glass. 3. Pour the infused bourbon over the ice cube and gently stir to combine. 4. Garnish with a smoked cherry and an orange twist. Serve and enjoy the intricate layers of flavor in this exceptional reimagining of the Old Fashioned.