To mix up something really special, you've got to play with fire.

It's something we've noticed in our favorite bars across the country: smoked cocktails. The woodsy note lends a rich complexity to old standbys, and allows for all kinds of new experimentation. To recreate the magic at home, you just torch the wood plank, capture the smoke in the jar, then pour in your cocktail to let the flavors mingle. The resulting drinks are in a league of their own — plus you look like a masterful mixologist while making them.

• BonJour Professional Culinary Torch.
• Marcellin Wood Smoking Planks. Set of two — (L)5" x (W)5" x (H)0.625".
• Weck Canning Jar. 12.5 oz.