This smoked cinnamon old fashioned is the perfect drink to enjoy seated next to Gandalf the Grey, on a crisp Autumn evening, around a fire with a smoking pipe.
Autumn in Middle Earth
As the fall season is upon us, we can imagine the transition from bright florals and vibrant green botanicals to the golden hues and burnt colours of autumn spreading across the foliage of JRR Tolkien’s Middle Earth. We can’t help but wonder, what delicious baking would Hobbits have on hand for afternoon tea on a cozy fall day in the Shire? Or what enchanting autumnal delicacies would the Elves enjoy amongst the falling leaves of Rivendell? Let us explore together some of the culinary delights from different lands for an Autumn Feast in Middle Earth.
The Grey Pilgrim
The image of a tall, grey-clad wizard bearing a wooden staff and pointed hat is perhaps one of the most iconic images in all of Tolkien’s world. Gandalf the Grey, one of five wizards sent to Middle Earth, is a key figure in The Lord of the Rings and he is often pictured with a smoking pipe. This smoke infused cocktail takes inspiration from the Grey Pilgrim and his smoking pipe. With a hint of spice and smoky undertones, this autumn-inspired old fashioned is the perfect tipple for a cool fall evening before a roaring fire.
Ingredients
Whiskey: The key ingredient in an old fashioned is whiskey. As there are few other ingredients, the flavour of the whiskey will definitely stand out. So it is important to select a good one. I like using a single malt scotch that I would happily drink neat. A good, affordable basic scotch is Glenlivet 12 yrs old. Or choose a scotch that already has smoky elements such as Lagavulin.
Cinnamon sticks: Cinnamon sticks flavour the simple syrup and are used to add the smoky element to this old fashioned.
Cardamom Bitters: Aromatic bitters are used to add depth of flavour and, well, a hint of bitterness in cocktails. To compliment the spice notes in this drink, I like to use a cardamom bitters.
How to Make A Smoked Cinnamon Old Fashioned
Make the cinnamon simple syrup
In a saucepan combine the water and sugar. Place over high heat and bring to a simmer. Stir occasionally to completely dissolve the sugar. Add 2 cinnamon sticks and let simmer for another minute. Then, remove from the heat, cover, and let steep for 20-30 minutes.
Remove and discard the cinnamon sticks. Let the syrup cool before using. The syrup will keep for 2 to 3 weeks in the fridge.
Prepare the glass
Break off a piece of cinnamon stick that will fit under the glass. Have an old fashioned glass and fireproof plate ready to go. Ignite the cinnamon holding it in the flame until it is heavily smoking. Place the cinnamon on the plate and immediately cover it with an upside down old fashioned glass. It’s ok if there are flames from the cinnamon, the glass will snuff them out quickly.
Allow the glass to sit for a couple of minutes before lifting it up. Set aside.
Make the Smoked Cinnamon Old Fashioned
In a cocktail shaker, combine the whiskey, cinnamon simple syrup, and cardamom bitters. Add a couple of ice cubes and stir the mixture for 5 to 10 seconds to chill the mixture.
Strain the cocktail into a rocks glass filled with ice. Garnish with a cinnamon stick. Light the cinnamon using a lighter or match and let the flame burn out. Serve immediately and enjoy!
