9. Black Manhattan

ABittersweet amaro is the secret to this modern classic Manhattan riff.

Use bittersweet amaro rather than sweet vermouth to make this dark and modern riff on a classic Manhattan.

Ingredients

• 2 ounces rye whiskey

• 1 ounce Averna amaro

• 1 dash Angostura bitters

• 1 dash orange bitters

• Brandied cherry

• For garnish

How to prepare

1. Step 1

• Add the rye whiskey, Averna, Angostura bitters and orange bitters into a mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.

2. Step 2

• Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

3. Step 3

• Garnish with a brandied cherry.

Helpful Tips

• Chill Your Glass
• The use of port-finished Scotch contributes to the cocktail's bold and smooth flavor profile.
• Choose Your Spirit Wisely
• Rye Whiskey
• For a spicier and bolder cocktail, choose a rye whiskey, ideally one that is at least 100 proof to stand up to the other ingredients.
• Bourbon
• If you prefer a slightly sweeter, mellower drink, bourbon is a great alternative to rye.
• Stir, Don't Shake:
• Stirring your Black Manhattan with ice is crucial for achieving the right balance of chilling and dilution, which can take about 30 seconds.
• Don't Over-Stir
• Stirring for too long can over-dilute your drink, so aim for about 30 seconds or until the mixture is well-chilled.
• Garnish to Complement
• A classic maraschino cherry is a perfect garnish, but an orange or lemon twist can add a bright citrus aroma to complement the amaro and bitters.
• Quality Amaro
• Averna Amaro is the signature amaro for the Black Manhattan, but other dark, herbal amari can also be used for a different flavor profile.
• Add Bitters
• Don't forget the bitters! Angostura aromatic bitters and orange bitters add depth and complexity to the cocktail.

Enjoy your Black Manhattan!