A cocktail smoker adds a layer of wood smoke to an old fashioned, manhattan, or neat whiskey. Most kits use a small wooden chimney that sits on top of the glass, a few wood chips, and a refillable butane torch.
They make popular gifts for whiskey drinkers. We compared what each kit includes, how many wood flavors come in the box, and whether butane is included.
What to Look For
- Butane: Most kits ship without butane because of shipping rules. Plan to buy a can separately.
- Wood chip variety: Cherry, apple, oak, and hickory are the classics; more flavors give more to experiment with.
- Torch quality: A refillable, adjustable torch with a lock is easier and safer to use.
- Extras: Glasses, ice molds, and whiskey stones make a kit more complete as a gift.
- Fit: Check that the smoker top fits your glasses; most fit standard rocks glasses.
Our Top Picks
KUZKUZY Cocktail Smoker Kit with Torch
KUZKUZY's kit pairs a wooden smoker top with a refillable torch and multiple wood chip flavors.
It's one of the most popular cocktail smoker kits and a dependable gift choice.
Whiskey Smoker Kit with Torch, 2 Glasses and 2 Ice Molds
This set includes six wood chip flavors plus two glasses and two ice molds, so it's ready to use out of the box once you add butane.
The extras make it the most complete gift here.
Syjunf Cocktail Smoker Kit with 8 Wood Chip Flavors
Syjunf includes eight wood chip flavors, more than most kits, along with a torch.
Choose it for someone who enjoys experimenting with different smoke profiles.
JIDI Whiskey Smoker Kit with Torch and Wood Chips
JIDI's kit covers the essentials: a smoker top, torch, and wood chips.
It's a straightforward option if you don't need glasses or accessories.
How We Chose
We compared smoker kits on what's included, wood chip variety, and gift readiness. Butane is not included with these kits, so factor that in.
Bottom Line
The KUZKUZY kit is the best all-around cocktail smoker. The kit with glasses and ice molds makes the best gift, and the Syjunf set offers the most wood chip variety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you use a cocktail smoker?
Place a pinch of wood chips on the screen, set the smoker on the glass, light the chips with the torch, and let the smoke settle for 10 to 30 seconds before lifting it off.
Which wood is best for smoking whiskey?
Oak and hickory are bold; cherry and apple are sweeter and lighter. Many people start with cherry.
Is cocktail smoke safe?
Use food-grade wood chips made for smoking, work in a ventilated area, and keep the torch away from flammable items.
Can you smoke food with these kits?
Many work on cheese, nuts, and small dishes under a cloche, but they're designed mainly for drinks.