Smoke On The Water Cocktail Recipe

Smoke On The Water is a cocktail that embodies the spirit of a mystical evening by the sea, with a smoky aroma that evokes the imagery of a bonfire on the beach. It's a modern concoction that appeals to those who appreciate a balance of smoky, sweet, and tart flavors. The cocktail is particularly favored by adventurous drinkers who enjoy mezcal's distinctive smokiness.

• The name is inspired by the classic rock song by Deep Purple.
• It's a relatively new addition to the cocktail scene, gaining popularity for its theatrical presentation.
• The flaming rosemary garnish not only adds to the aroma but also to the overall experience of the drink.

The 'Smoke On The Water' cocktail offers a complex flavor profile. It's smoky due to the mezcal, with a subtle sweetness from the watermelon juice and hibiscus syrup. The Cointreau provides a citrusy depth, while the lime juice adds a refreshing tartness. The flaming rosemary sprig infuses the drink with a herbaceous aroma, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

• The cocktail's smoky flavor is a nod to the mezcal's traditional production process, which involves smoking the agave hearts.
• The use of a flaming garnish adds a dramatic flair and is a conversation starter.
• 'Smoke On The Water' is often served in bars that specialize in craft cocktails and is a testament to the bartender's mixology skills.

1. Soak a fresh rosemary sprig upside down in 100-proof alcohol for five minutes.
2. In a shaker with ice, combine the mezcal, Cointreau, watermelon juice, hibiscus syrup, and lime juice.
3. Shake until well-chilled.
4. Double-strain into a rocks glass over fresh ice.
5. Place the prepared sprig upright in the glass.
6. Light the rosemary immediately before serving and extinguish before drinking.

• For an extra smoky flavor, try using a smoking gun to infuse the cocktail with wood smoke.
• Use the freshest ingredients possible, especially the watermelon juice, for the best flavor.
• Be cautious when lighting the rosemary; use a long match or lighter to keep your fingers away from the flames.

Seafood

Grilled shrimp or ceviche can complement the smokiness of the mezcal and the freshness of the watermelon.

Spicy Dishes

A spicy Thai or Indian curry would pair nicely, as the cocktail's sweetness can cool the palate.

Desserts

Try it with a lemon tart or berry sorbet, which will harmonize with the cocktail's citrus notes.

• If Banhez Mezcal Artesanal is not available, any other quality mezcal can be used.
• Cointreau can be substituted with another orange liqueur like Grand Marnier.
• In absence of hibiscus syrup, one can use grenadine with a touch of floral bitters for a similar flavor profile.

Smoke On The Forest

Substitute the mezcal with a smoky scotch and replace the watermelon juice with blackberry puree for an earthier, more forest-like version.

Smoke On The Orchard

Swap out watermelon juice for fresh apple cider and add a dash of cinnamon syrup. This creates a more autumnal drink reminiscent of bonfires and apple orchards.

Smoke On The Sunset

Use a chili-infused hibiscus syrup and grapefruit juice instead of watermelon. The spiciness and bitter sweetness introduce a sizzling sunset twist to the original.