Smoke is more than an ingredient. It’s a finishing touch that can transform a cocktail, changing its aroma, flavour, and character with surprising subtlety. The secret lies not only in the wood you choose, but in how you apply the smoke.
From the lightest aromatic whisper to a deeper, more integrated flavour, different techniques create entirely different drinking experiences. Experiment with each approach to discover your perfect balance.
If you want to find out which wood flavour pairs well with what food and rink - check out our Wood Chip Pairing page.
Smoke the Garnish
The finishing flourish.
Smoke can be introduced through herbs, citrus, spices, or other garnishes, adding an aromatic layer that unfolds before the first sip. While subtle in flavour, it can dramatically change the way a cocktail is perceived.
Perfect when you want a hint of smoke without altering the drink itself.
Smoke Intensity: Light
Smoke the Glass
The most delicate approach.
Fill a chilled, empty glass with smoke before pouring your cocktail. The smoke lightly perfumes the vessel, creating an aromatic first impression while allowing the drink’s original flavours to remain centre stage.
Perfect for martinis, Manhattans, and other spirit-forward cocktails where elegance and balance are key.
Smoke Intensity: Light
Smoke the Glass with Ice
A little more depth, a little more character.
By smoking a chilled glass already containing ice, the smoke settles across both the vessel and the ice itself. As the drink is poured and the ice slowly melts, the smoke lingers longer and unfolds throughout the experience.
Ideal for Old Fashioneds, Negronis, and cocktails served over ice.
Smoke Intensity: Light to Medium
Smoke the Drink
A richer expression of smoke.
Once your cocktail is prepared, introduce smoke directly into the glass. The smoke mingles with the liquid, creating a more integrated flavour while enhancing aroma with every sip.
A favourite for whiskey cocktails, rum cocktails, and bold spirit-forward serves.
Smoke Intensity: Medium
The Alchemist’s Pour
The bartender’s flourish.
Prepare and chill your cocktail in a mixing glass as normal. Once stirred and ready, place your Sixpence Alchemy smoker over the mixing glass and introduce smoke. When the moment is right, strain into your serving glass and watch as the smoke spills gracefully into the glass, creating a captivating tableside reveal.
The result is part flavour, part theatre. Smoke becomes gently woven through the cocktail while the pour creates a striking visual moment.
Perfect for Manhattans, Old Fashioned, Negroni-style serves, and any cocktail that deserves a little ceremony.
Smoke Intensity: Medium
Finding Your Perfect Smoke
There is no single right way to smoke a cocktail.
Some drinks benefit from a delicate aromatic touch, while others welcome a deeper, more pronounced smoke character. Start light, experiment often, and discover how different techniques can transform the same recipe into an entirely new experience.
That’s the beauty of cocktail alchemy.
