The Smoked Winter Gin and Tonic. Charred Oranges, fresh rosemary, sweet spiced honey and smoked gin take this cocktail classic to a whole new level.
There is something about winter light that inspires me. It makes me hate the short days and curse the limited time. But the light shines crisp and clear as if the brisk air itself acts as a filter to purify and strengthen it. Stars seem to pop from the heavens and the skies ignite at sunrise and sunset for lingering moments of almost neon hues.
I have been known to drift off from conversations or seem distracted, as my eyes bounce around watching the colors and tones change in the air. As a photographer, you learn to hunt light. To wait it out patiently, watch it. Learn it. Be shocked and in awe of it.
And to let those emotions help tell stories in the images.
It’s closing in on winter, the holiday’s will swiftly be over and we will be in the long haul of frigid temps and threatening frosts. Cozy blankets will be slung over chairs and fires will be stoked all night, inviting us to find some peace in the darkness. There will be kisses of brisk air, fresh and clean on your cheeks. A welcoming glow of candlelight in the windows.
The moments when the earth herself feels like she is deep in slumber and we should all tiptoe gently as to not wake her from her needed sleep.
It’s these images that I wanted to create in this cocktail. A comforting, slow libation to sip on as you gather around with friends or read alone in the winter’s shadows.
The charred citrus adding a splash of fresh along the aromatic rosemary. The sweet and yet spicy from the Spicy Bees Knees Honey and the mature flavor of the slow smoked gin all coming together perfectly. This is winter in a glass. The Smoked Winter Gin and Tonic. Sip and enjoy.
What You Need for this Smoked Winter Gin Cocktail
Tools
- Small, heavy skillet
- Cooking spray
- Kitchen torch (optional)
- Highball glass
Ingredients
- Ice
- 1 orange, sliced into ¼" rounds
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- ½ teaspoon Spiced Bees Knees Honey
- 2 oz Smoked Gin - we used Black Button Barrel Reserve Gin.
- 4 - 6 oz tonic water
How to Make a Smoked Gin Cocktail
While a bit more involved than your average cocktail it is every bit worth it. Heat a small, heavy skillet over medium-high heat. Spray with cooking spray and char the oranges 2 to 4 minutes a side. Alternatively, a kitchen torch or grill works for this as well.
Quickly toss the rosemary sprig in the same pan until fragrant, 30 seconds. Add ice to a highball glass. Muddle 1 orange slice and a bit of rosemary. Add the honey, gin and tonic.
Stir to dissolve the honey and garnish with a fresh charred orange slice and toasted rosemary sprig.
Can I store this Smoked Winter Gin and Tonic?
Nope, not this one. It must be made and enjoyed fresh!
Other Cocktails You'll Love
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Smoked Winter Gin and Tonic
AmericanIngredients
- Ice
- 1 orange - sliced into ¼" rounds
- 4 sprigs fresh rosemary
- ½ teaspoon Spiced Bees Knees Honey
- 2 oz Smoked Gin
- 4 - 6 oz tonic water
Instructions
- Heat a small heavy skillet over medium high heat. Spray with cooking spray and char the oranges 2 to 4 minutes a side.
- Alternatively, a kitchen torch or grill works for this as well.
- Quickly toss the rosemary sprig in the same pan until fragrant, 30 seconds.
- Add ice to a highball glass. Muddle 1 orange slice and a bit of rosemary.
- Add the honey, gin and tonic.
- Stir to dissolve the honey and garnish with a fresh charred orange slice and toasted rosemary sprig.
Nutrition
Nutritional informations provided as a courtesy and is only an approximatation. Values will changes based on ingredients used.
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Christina says
Wow, stunning photography! I love gin so I can't wait to give this cocktail a try!
Elizabeth says
I agree, fantastic photography! The cocktail is pretty fantastic as well!! The only thing I did differently was muddle before adding the ice - which was probably a typo anyway.
Loved it 🙂
Red says
Where would I find this "smoked gin"? Is there a specific brand?
Kita says
We used Black Button Barrel Reserve Gin which we found in NY.