If smoking your cocktail: Using a lighter, burn the end of the smoking pellet until a small flame is present. Blow out the flame and place the pellet in a heatproof holder.  Use a glass pitcher to capture the smoke, leaving it on for about a minute, and then seal the pitcher until ready to use.

In a separate glass or pitcher, add 1 oz of gin, 1 oz of sweet vermouth, 1 oz of aperol, and a handful of ice. Stir until the liquids have combined and are cooled.

Strain the aperol mixture into the glass pitcher where you captured the smoke, leaving the ice behind. Swirl the drink in the pitcher a few times, letting the smoky flavor sink  in.

Add a large ice cube to a rocks glass and pour the drink over top. Add an orange peel for garnish and serve immediately.  Enjoy!