Freedom's Ember

Celebrate newfound freedom with a cocktail that symbolizes the warmth and opportunity of a fresh start. Freedom's Ember combines the robust flavors of whiskey with a hint of smokiness and a touch of sweetness, designed to capture the essence of hope and liberation. *Ingredients:* - 2 oz smoked bourbon whiskey - 0.5 oz pure maple syrup - 0.75 oz fresh lemon juice - 2 dashes of Angostura bitters - 1 dash of liquid smoke (optional, for extra smokiness) - Orange peel, for garnish - A cherry, for garnish *Instructions:* 1. In a shaker filled with ice, combine the smoked bourbon whiskey, pure maple syrup, fresh lemon juice, Angostura bitters, and liquid smoke if using. 2. Shake well until chilled. 3. Strain into an old-fashioned glass filled with a large ice cube. 4. Express the oils from the orange peel over the drink by twisting it above the glass, then drop it in. 5. Add a cherry for a touch of sweetness. Serve this cocktail in an old-fashioned glass, and raise it to newfound liberty and fresh beginnings.