Savor the sophistication with this Black Manhattan recipe! Blending rye whiskey, Averna Amaro, and bitters into a polished cocktail.
Prep time:
1 minute
Mixing time:
1 minute
Servings:
1
Calories:
268
Ingredients
- 2 oz Rye Whiskey
- 1 oz Averna Amaro
- 2 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters
- Ice cubes
- Cherry - for garnish, optional
Equipment
- Cocktail Glass
- Measuring Jigger
- Stirrer or Bar Spoon
- Mixing Glass
- Strainer
Instructions
- Prep glass: Make sure your cocktail glass will be chilled when needed.
- Add Bitters: Add 2 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters to the mixing glass.
- Add Averna Amaro: Measure and pour 1 oz Averna Amaro.
- Add Rye Whiskey: Pour 2 oz Rye Whiskey into the mixing glass.
- Add ice cubes: Ice up the mixing glass.
- Stir: Stir the mixture for about 20-25 seconds.
- Strain: Strain your cocktail in a chilled cocktail glass
- Garnish: Drop a cherry into the glass as a garnish.
Notes
Substitutes:
- Rye Whiskey: I often go for bourbon if I run out of rye. It gives a slightly sweeter touch to the cocktail. For a smokier profile, try a good-quality Scotch.
- Averna Amaro: If Averna Amaro isn't on hand, I've swapped in Ramazzotti or Montenegro. They both offer unique yet delightful variations on the drink's profile.
- Angostura Bitters: Orange bitters can be an alternative, adding a citrusy twist to the mix.
Making a Pitcher of Black Manhattan:
- Scale: For a pitcher serving 8, you'll need 16 oz of rye whiskey, 8 oz of Averna Amaro, and 16 dashes of Angostura Bitters.
- Mix: In a large pitcher, combine the whiskey, Amaro, and bitters. Mix them well with ice.
- Serve: Distribute the mixture among chilled cocktail glasses, garnish with a cherry, and serve up.
Making it Non-Alcoholic:
- Rye Whiskey Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative. Many brands now offer these, and they're crafted to resemble whiskey's flavor profile.
- Averna Amaro Substitute: Create a herbal tea blend with a hint of sweetness. Combine strong brewed tea (like black or rooibos) with a splash of maple syrup.
- Proceed As Usual: With these non-alcoholic replacements, follow the main steps and enjoy a spirit-free Black Manhattan.
Making it Vegan:
- Cherry Garnish: Ensure the cherry used for garnish is not soaked in non-vegan ingredients. Some maraschino cherries, for instance, may contain non-vegan colorings or preservatives. Look for organic or explicitly vegan-labeled cherries.
What is a Black Manhattan?
Black Manhattan is a twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, showcasing rye whiskey and Averna Amaro instead of the traditional sweet vermouth. This variant adds depth and complexity, making it stand out in cocktails. Many appreciate the Black Manhattan for its intriguing blend of flavors, and its name likely stems from the dark, rich hue imparted by the Averna Amaro. While it might sound exclusive, crafting a Black Manhattan requires no arcane knowledge. Following the right recipe ensures that this sophisticated cocktail comes together seamlessly every time.
What is a Black Manhattan Cocktail made of – The ingredients
A Black Manhattan is composed of these ingredients:
- Rye Whiskey: The base spirit provides a robust and slightly spicy foundation for the cocktail.
- Averna Amaro: An Italian liqueur, it introduces rich herbal notes and a deep color, replacing the traditional sweet vermouth.
- Angostura Bitters: A concentrated botanical extract adds complexity and a hint of bitterness to balance the drink’s sweetness.
- Ice Cubes: Used to chill and dilute the cocktail, ensuring a smoother and more palatable drink.
- Cherry (for garnish): A classic touch, it offers a visual appeal and a subtle fruity undertone when immersed.
