Smoked Manhattan Recipe

Combine

Add 2 oz Knob Creek Rye, 0.75 oz Amaro Averna, 0.25 oz demerara syrup and 2 dashes orange bitters into a mixing glass.

Ice and stir

Fill the mixing glass with large ice cubes and stir briskly for 30–45 seconds (or until well chilled and properly diluted, about 20–25 full rotations) to achieve a silky texture and slight dilution.

Prepare serving glass

While stirring, place one large ice cube (or two large cubes) in a chilled rocks glass. If using a coupe, chill the glass and proceed without ice.

Strain

Double-strain the chilled cocktail into the prepared rocks glass over the large ice cube(s).

Set up smoker

Place approximately 1 tablespoon of hardwood smoking chips in the smoking gun or on a small metal tray if using a handheld torch and dome method. Light according to the device instructions so you have a steady flow of smoke.

Capture smoke

Cover the serving glass with an inverted mixing glass, metal dome, or cling film to create a chamber. If using a rocks glass with ice, ensure the cover seals around the rim to trap smoke. If using a coupe, set the coupe under the dome.

Introduce smoke

Insert the smoker nozzle under the seal and fill the glass with smoke for 10–20 seconds until visibly filled but not overfull. If using a dome and tray method, light the chips briefly and invert the dome over the glass to let smoke accumulate.

Rest briefly

Allow the smoke to sit in the sealed glass for 15–25 seconds to impart aroma without overpowering the spirit.

Finish

Remove the cover and quickly pour the strained cocktail into the smoked glass (or, alternatively, strain the cocktail into the serving glass before capturing smoke and then cover, fill with smoke, invert the pre-filled glass, and flip to present). Swirl gently to integrate smoke aromatics.

Express the orange peel over the cocktail: hold the peel with the outer skin facing down above the glass and give it a firm twist to release oils across the surface. Run the rim of the peel around the glass and drop it into the drink (or lay on the ice). Optionally, add a Luxardo cherry on a pick.

Serve immediately so the guest experiences the fresh smoke aroma. Recommend sipping slowly to appreciate the rye and Amaro interplay with the smoked top notes.