Published on Nov 30, 2017
Is it true that we eat with our eyes first? Most definitely! How a dish looks can actually influence the flavors of the dish, enhancing some flavors over others. Same is true with cocktails, don’t underestimate the power of an awe-inspiring presentation. In this recipe I’ll show you how to dazzle not only your eyes but also your nose and taste buds, using a smoking method. While a smoke gun is certainly the most traditional, and perhaps the easiest way to create a smoked cocktail, you don’t necessarily need one. You can burn any herb on a plate with the glass upside down. This creates a subtle, smoked herb effect and taste. For this recipe you need is small fire resistant plate (I use glazed clay), a torch and rosemary sprig.
Ignite 1 rosemary sprig on top of a heatproof plate, carefully allow it to burn slightly then extinguish flames. Immediately invert a glass on the plate covering the rosemary and allow it to smolder for a minute or so.

- 4 oz Gin
- 2 oz Simple Syrup
- 1/2 oz Lime Juice (freshly squeezed)
- Splash of Ginger Beer or Ginger Ale (your choice)
- 2 Rosemary Sprigs (one for garnish and one for smoking)
- Mix all ingredients except Ginger beer/ale.
- Ignite 1 rosemary sprig on top of a heatproof plate, carefully allow it to burn slightly then extinguish flames.
- Immediately invert a glass on the plate covering the rosemary and allow it to smolder.
- Turn the glass over and add a large cube of ice.
- Char another rosemary sprig (slightly) and add it to the glass.
- Pour mixture over the ice cube and top it off with ginger beer or ale.
Image courtesy of Pixabay