There’s something timeless about an Old Fashioned—its simplicity, its strength, and its ability to anchor any evening. But every now and then, a twist on the classic brings it new life. Enter the Smoked Peach Old Fashioned, where Southern sweetness meets bold, smoky depth.
This cocktail is an ideal choice for anyone who appreciates tradition but isn’t afraid to take a detour. The smoky element adds a rugged, campfire-like character that pairs beautifully with ripe peach. Whether it’s fresh peach purée or an infused syrup, the fruit softens the edges of the bourbon without ever taking center stage.
Serve it at a backyard dinner, a cozy nightcap, or as your signature cocktail at a late-summer gathering. This drink feels elevated, complex, and surprisingly easy to execute—even if you don’t have a smoker on hand.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz bourbon
- 1/2 oz peach syrup or purée (see notes)
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 dash smoked bitters (optional but recommended)
- Smoked wood chips or a smoke gun (optional for garnish)
- Ice
- Orange peel or grilled peach slice for garnish
Instructions:
- Add bourbon, peach syrup, Angostura bitters, and smoked bitters (if using) to a mixing glass.
- Fill with ice and stir for 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Optional: Capture smoke from wood chips using a smoking gun or torch a wood plank with a peach slice before placing it on the glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist or grilled peach slice to enhance the visual and aromatic appeal.
Ingredients
Method
- Add bourbon, peach syrup, Angostura bitters, and smoked bitters (if using) to a mixing glass.
- Fill with ice and stir for 20–30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Optional: Capture smoke from wood chips using a smoking gun or torch a wood plank with a peach slice before placing it on the glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist or grilled peach slice to enhance the visual and aromatic appeal.
Notes
- To make peach syrup: Simmer 1 part water, 1 part sugar, and fresh peach slices for 10 minutes. Strain and cool.
- No smoker? Use a grilled peach garnish or smoked bitters to add depth.
The Smoked Peach Old Fashioned is all about balance—sweet but not sugary, smoky but not overpowering. It’s perfect for whiskey lovers who want something new, or for newcomers looking for a smooth entry point into the world of bourbon. The peach and smoke elements elevate this drink into something that feels familiar yet fresh.
Want to make it even more dramatic? Serve it under a cloche filled with smoke for a sensory reveal. Whether you’re sipping solo or serving guests, this cocktail sets the tone.