The Smokey Joe is not just a single drink, but rather a family of cocktails united by a shared theme: a powerful smoky flavor, often derived from peaty Scotch whisky or a smoking process. This article explores different interpretations of the Smokey Joe, offering insights into the ingredients, preparation, and the unique characteristics of each variation. From its origins to modern interpretations, discover the story behind this intriguing cocktail.
The Original Smokey Joe
While the exact origin is shrouded in a bit of mystery, the classic Smokey Joe cocktail is well-documented in cocktail guides. This version is a study in contrasts, combining sweet, savory, and smoky elements.
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Sake
- 0.5 oz Cognac
- 1 Bar Spoon Islay single malt Scotch whisky (peated)
- 1 oz Sauternes dessert wine
Preparation:
- Chill: Ensure your cocktail glass is chilled before beginning.
- Combine: In a mixing glass, combine all ingredients.
- Stir: Add ice and stir well until chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
This original version of the Smokey Joe provides a unique balance of flavors. The sake provides a light base, while the cognac adds a layer of warmth and complexity. The peated Islay whisky contributes a significant smokiness, and the Sauternes wine adds a touch of sweetness and richness. The result is a multi-layered cocktail that is both intriguing and satisfying.
Variations on the Theme
The appeal of the Smokey Joe has led to numerous variations, each with its own unique character. Here are some notable examples.
Ghost of Smokey Joe
This variation, attributed to a commenter on Difford’s Guide named John Champion, takes a darker, more intense approach. This version swaps out the base spirit for a rye whiskey, adding depth and spice.
Ingredients:
- 1.5 oz Rye whiskey (50% ABV)
- 1 oz Dry vermouth
- 0.5 oz Bénédictine D.O.M.
- 1 barspoon Absinthe
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 dashes Peated Islay scotch whisky
Preparation:
- Chill: Chill your cocktail glass.
- Combine: Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.
- Stir: Stir well until chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into your chilled glass.
The Ghost of Smokey Joe builds upon the original by adding an element of herbaceous complexity with the Bénédictine and the absinthe. The rye whiskey contributes a spicy foundation, and the peated Scotch whisky adds a smoky undertone. This variation is a more potent and complex drink than the original.
Smokey Joe’s at The Baxter Inn
This version, served at The Baxter Inn in Sydney, is a refreshing take on the Julep, using American whiskey, mint, sugar and ice as its base with a twist.
Ingredients:
- 40ml Aberfeldy 12 year old Scotch whisky
- 20ml Aperol
- 15ml smoked green cardamom water
- 10ml Lemon juice
- 10ml Urban Beehive Inner West honey syrup
- Ginger cube and a mint sprig to garnish
Preparation:
- Muddle: Gently muddle the ginger cube in a shaker.
- Combine: Add the remaining ingredients to the shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until chilled.
- Strain: Double strain the mixture into a glass with ice.
- Garnish: Garnish with a mint sprig.
This version of the Smokey Joe combines the smokiness of the scotch with the sweetness of honey and the bitterness of Aperol, it offers a more refreshing profile than some other versions and highlights the versatility of the Smokey Joe name.
Smokey Joe (Coffee Cocktail)
This version takes a tropical and caffeinated twist on the concept.
Ingredients:
- 1.50 oz Mezcal
- 0.50 oz Mr Black Coffee Liqueur
- 1.50 oz Pineapple Juice
- 0.75 oz Orgeat
- 0.50 oz Lime Juice
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
Preparation:
- Combine: Add all ingredients to a shaker with ice.
- Shake: Shake well until chilled.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into a glass filled with ice.
This Smokey Joe variation is a complex combination of smoky, sweet, and tropical flavors. The mezcal provides the smokiness, while the coffee liqueur adds depth, and the pineapple and lime juices create a refreshing tropical note.
The Art of Smoking Cocktails
Beyond specific Smokey Joe recipes, the concept of incorporating smoke into cocktails has expanded, with various methods employed to achieve this effect.
Smoking Methods
- Smoke Gun: A handheld smoke gun can infuse a cocktail directly with smoke, allowing for controlled and precise smokiness.
- Smoking Glass: Fill a glass with smoke using a smoking gun, then add your drink, allowing the smoky aroma to permeate the cocktail.
- Smoked Ingredients: Incorporate smoked ingredients such as smoked salt, smoked syrups or smoked spirits to add a smoky depth of flavor to your cocktail.
Types of Smoke
Different types of wood chips or herbs create different smoky profiles:
- Applewood: Sweet and fruity smoke, ideal for lighter spirits like gin or tequila.
- Hickory: Strong and bacon-like smoke, great for robust cocktails like Old Fashioneds or Bloody Marys.
- Mesquite: Intense and earthy smoke, well-suited for tequila-based drinks.
- Cedar: Earthy and aromatic smoke, enhances gin and tonic.
- Rosemary: Herbaceous and woody smoke that pairs well with whiskey and Chartreuse.
Why the Smokey Joe Endures
The Smokey Joe has maintained its appeal due to its bold flavor profile, as well as its versatility. The smokiness can be achieved through different methods, using a variety of spirits and modifiers allowing for almost endless customization.
The Smokey Joe is more than just a cocktail; it’s an experience. The depth of flavor, coupled with the visual appeal of smoke, creates a memorable drink that is sure to impress. Whether you prefer the classic version or a modern twist, the Smokey Joe is a testament to the art of mixology.
