Leña Old Fashioned
Leña (Firewood)
The Leña Old Fashioned is our signature take on the classic cocktail and a heartfelt homage to Leña, our mobile asado experience. Leña brings the spirit of live-fire cooking and communal gatherings to private events and pop-ups across the area.
Located at Urban Asado, the grill fabrication studio where Asado Life began, Leña is nestled along the scenic San Sebastian River on Riberia Street in St. Augustine, right where the shrimp boats dock. This original location remains our creative hub for building custom grills and crafting unforgettable live-fire experiences.
True to its name (Leña means “firewood” in Spanish), the cocktail can be dramatically smoked tableside upon request, infusing every sip with the unmistakable aroma of wood-fired tradition.
Owner Nick Carrera live fire cooking with Leña’s custom built mobile kitchen
Private Barrel Selections
We craft the Leña Old Fashioned using one of our exclusive private-label whiskeys, selected and bottled in partnership with renowned distilleries like Buffalo Trace, Two James, Eagle Rare, and Heaven’s Door. These limited-edition barrels are chosen exclusively for Asado Life and are available only until the last drop is poured, each year replaced by a new hand-selected release.
Our whiskey selection reflects our craft cocktail philosophy: we champion smaller, story-rich spirits and support local distilleries whenever possible. This experience-driven approach shines through in every element of the drink
Orange Vanilla Bitters
Bitters are the spice rack of the cocktail world, adding depth, complexity, and perfect balance. Our house Asado Orange Vanilla Bitters are aged for one full month in charred oak barrels with Madagascar vanilla beans, creating a rich, aromatic profile that beautifully complements agave spirits or elevates a classic Old Fashioned.
We pair the whiskey with a measure of Amaro Nardini, which brings a harmonious blend of citrus, gentle bitterness, hints of licorice, peppermint, and toasted sugar — adding layers of warmth and sophistication to the drink.
Make it at Home
Ingredients
2 oz bourbon
¼ oz Amaro Nardini
2 dashes Asado Orange Vanilla Bitters
Orange peel
Filthy® Black Cherries
Directions
Pour the bourbon directly over a large ice cube or sphere.
Add the Amaro Nardini and bitters, then stir gently to chill and integrate.
Express the orange peel by twisting it over the glass to release the oils, then rub it along the rim.
Garnish with a fresh orange peel twist and a Filthy® Black Cherry.
Whether enjoyed fireside at one of our events or mixed at home, the Leña Old Fashioned captures the soul of Asado Life in flavor and craftsmanship.
Take the Experience Home
Custom smoker hats, our house-made Asado Orange Vanilla Bitters, and even the exclusive private barrel whiskey are available to purchase in our market so you can recreate the magic at your home bar!