How to smoke drinks for a group
The ritual
Prepare the drinks before your guests gather, then finish each glass with smoke as you serve it. The pour becomes part of the evening.
27 August 2026
Prepare the round
Allow about a minute to smoke each prepared drink, with extra time for the smoker to cool and for fresh chips between pours. Measure the ingredients and prepare garnishes in advance so you can stay with your guests.
- Choose the cocktail and count the servings.
- Set out glasses, ice and garnishes.
- Keep the wood tin, torch and a heatproof resting surface within reach.
Mix before you smoke
Build the drinks before setting the disc on the first glass. Reserve twists, cherries and other garnishes until after smoking. For drinks with soda, smoke the base first and add the sparkling mixer just before serving.
Finish each glass as you serve it
- Rest the disc securely on the first glass. Place the barrel horizontally on the disc and lift away its top half.
- Add a small pinch of chips to the screen. Light them with the torch, then remove the flame once they smoulder.
- Let the smoke collect for about 30 seconds. Lift the smoker carefully, add the garnish and serve.
- Set the smoker on a heatproof surface. Let hot parts cool before handling the screen or replacing spent chips, then prepare the next glass.
Choose the wood for the evening
Use 1 wood for the round to keep preparation simple. For a tasting, make a small pair with 1 wood and another pair with a different wood. Clear the cooled chips between woods so each drink has its own finish.
Let your guests catch the aroma
Bring people close enough to watch, with a clear space around the torch. Hand over each glass as it is ready. That first curl of smoke is best enjoyed at the table, before the first sip.