Black Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

We all enjoy a classic Manhattan, but have you ever tried its bolder sibling, the Black Manhattan? Imagine the rich flavors of rye whiskey blending with the bittersweet, herbal notes of Averna amaro. This drink packs a smoky and spicy punch, creating an unforgettable cocktail experience.

What makes the Black Manhattan unique is swapping sweet vermouth for Averna Amaro Siciliano. This adds layers of bittersweet and herbal flavors. Sometimes, we even add a splash of citrus zest for a refreshing twist. It’s a simple cocktail that only takes minutes to whip up.

With amaro cocktails gaining popularity, now’s the perfect time to dive into this trend. Explore the growing world of amaro and mix up a Black Manhattan at home. Trust us, this drink will quickly become a favorite in your cocktail lineup.

Key Takeaways

• Black Manhattan uses Averna amaro instead of vermouth.
• Cocktail combines spicy, smoky rye with bitter herbal flavors.
• Easy to make and great for exploring amaro trends.

History of the Black Manhattan

The Black Manhattan was created by bartender Todd Smith in 2005. He introduced it at Bourbon & Branch, a well-known bar in San Francisco. This twist on the classic Manhattan soon caught the attention of cocktail enthusiasts.

Unlike the traditional Manhattan, which uses sweet vermouth, the Black Manhattan substitutes Averna Amaro. This amaro brings a rich, bittersweet flavor to the drink that’s hard to miss.

Using Averna gives the cocktail deeper complexity, setting the Black Manhattan apart from other cocktails. This clever swap breathes new life into the classic recipe.

Another twist is the addition of orange bitters, which adds an extra layer of flavor. This small change makes the Black Manhattan even more distinctive.

Bartenders everywhere have embraced this variation, reflecting the growing trend of using amaro in cocktails. Today, the Black Manhattan sits proudly among other popular amaro-based drinks and is a favorite for fans of both classic and modern cocktails.

Black Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Ready to whip up a rich and complex Black Manhattan? Let’s go over the ingredients, tools you’ll need, step-by-step instructions, and a few nutritional details.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make a Black Manhattan:

• 2 oz Rye Whiskey (e.g., Rittenhouse Rye)
• 1 oz Averna Amaro
• 1 dash Angostura Bitters
• 1 dash Orange Bitters
• Garnish: Brandied Cherry or Orange Peel

The rye whiskey gives it a spicy kick, while Averna Amaro adds a bittersweet, herbal flavor. The bitters bring in layers of spice and citrus.

Equipments You’ll Need

Make sure you have these bar tools handy:

• Mixing Glass
• Bar Spoon
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Coupe Glass

Step-by-Step Preparation

Here’s how we make the Black Manhattan:

1. Fill your coupe glass with ice water and set it aside.
2. Pour 2 oz rye whiskey and 1 oz Averna Amaro into the mixing glass.
3. Add one dash of Angostura bitters and one dash of orange bitters.
4. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
5. Empty the ice water from the coupe glass and strain the mixture into it.
6. Garnish with a brandied cherry or a twist of orange peel for an aromatic touch.

Stirring instead of shaking keeps the drink clear and gives it a silky texture.

Nutrition and Content

A typical Black Manhattan has:

• Calories: About 150-200 per serving.
• Alcohol Content: Roughly 25-30% ABV.

These numbers can vary depending on the brands you use. The rye whiskey and Averna Amaro mainly contribute to the calorie count and alcohol content. Different garnishes or slight ingredient tweaks can also affect the nutritional values slightly. Enjoy in moderation, and remember these are just estimates.

Enjoy making and sipping this delightful, sophisticated cocktail!

Should you use Bourbon or Rye Whiskey in a Black Manhattan?

When choosing between bourbon and rye whiskey for your Black Manhattan, think about the unique flavors each brings.

Rye whiskey offers a peppery spice that adds a bold complexity to the cocktail. Its robust taste pairs well with the amaro and bitters.

Bourbon, on the other hand, has sweeter notes like vanilla and caramel. This makes for a smoother and slightly sweeter Black Manhattan.

We recommend rye whiskey for a more traditional Black Manhattan. It really highlights the rich, herbal flavors of the cocktail.

But if you prefer a sweeter drink, bourbon is an excellent choice. Its smooth, sweet finish balances the bitterness of the amaro nicely. Bourbon can make the Black Manhattan more approachable for those who like milder cocktails.

Switching between rye and bourbon gives you the chance to create unique variations of the same cocktail. This flexibility is one of the joys of mixology.

Try both and see which one you prefer. Each option offers a different, satisfying experience. Experimenting with these choices can deepen your appreciation of the Black Manhattan and its many flavor profiles.

Garnishing Your Black Manhattan

When it comes to garnishing your Black Manhattan, you have a few great options:

Maraschino Cherry: This classic garnish adds a pop of color to your glass. Its brightness contrasts nicely with the cocktail’s rich tones and provides a sweet treat at the end of your drink.

Lemon or Orange Twist: A citrus twist looks elegant and adds a refreshing accent to your cocktail. To express the oils from the peel, hold it over the drink and give it a quick squeeze. This releases flavorful oils without muddling the peel in the drink.

Luxardo Cherry: For a more sophisticated touch, go with a Luxardo cherry. It offers a richer, deeper flavor than typical maraschinos. It adds a sophisticated touch to your drink and a lovely finishing nibble.

Choosing the right garnish can enhance both the presentation and flavor of your Black Manhattan. Enjoy experimenting with these options!

Variations of the Black Manhattan

Let’s dive into some fun variations of the Black Manhattan. These tweaks can bring new flavors and twists to this classic cocktail.

Different Amaro Options: Swap the Averna with Cynar for a more herbaceous taste. Or, try Amaro Montenegro to add fruity and floral notes to your drink.

Playing with Bitters: Change things up with different bitters. Chocolate bitters add a richer taste, while orange bitters offer a bright, citrusy twist.

Rye vs. Bourbon: Switching from rye whiskey to bourbon creates a sweeter version. Bourbon’s caramel and vanilla notes make the drink smoother and more approachable.

Seasonal Garnishes: Incorporate seasonal ingredients for a fun twist. Use a cinnamon stick as a garnish in winter or a fresh mint sprig in summer for a refreshing touch.

Simpler Twist: Try omitting the bitters for a cleaner flavor. This lets the amaro and whiskey shine more brightly.

Each variation can change the cocktail’s taste in exciting ways. Experimenting with these options brings new dimensions to the Black Manhattan, keeping your palate engaged and entertained.

What is the Best Way to Serve a Black Manhattan?

When serving a Black Manhattan, glassware matters. We recommend using a coupe glass. Its classic design showcases the drink’s rich color and adds a touch of elegance.

The Black Manhattan tastes best when well-chilled. Stirring it with ice cools it evenly, ensuring every sip is refreshing. Strain the mix into your chilled coupe glass for perfect presentation.

Adding a garnish is key. We love using a lemon or orange twist. Express the oils from the peel over the top of the drink for an extra layer of aroma.

This cocktail is perfect for formal gatherings, cocktail parties, or as a sophisticated nightcap. Its dark, rich flavor profile makes it ideal for special occasions.

Conclusion

The Black Manhattan stands out as a modern classic cocktail. Its smoky and herbal flavors bring a sophisticated touch to any gathering.

We encourage you to try making it at home. Experiment with different amaro brands to find your favorite taste.

Whether you’re a seasoned bartender or a home mixologist, give this drink a shot. The rich, complex flavors are worth exploring.

Share your experience in the comments below. We’d love to hear about any twists you add to the recipe.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a substitute for Averna in a Black Manhattan?

You can try dark, herbal amaros like Montenegro, Meletti, or Amaro Nonino. Cynar is another option, though its artichoke character may slightly change the flavor. Each amaro has its own unique taste, so expect some difference from the classic version.

Can I use a different type of whiskey?

Rye whiskey is the traditional choice for its peppery spice that pairs well with amaro. For a sweeter, smoother drink, bourbon works great. You can also try Canadian rye or wheated bourbon, but note that the flavor profile will change.

Should a Manhattan cocktail (including Black Manhattan) be shaken or stirred?

Manhattans, including the Black Manhattan, should always be stirred. Stirring gently chills and dilutes the drink without adding froth. Shaking can bruise citrus peels and make the cocktail cloudy.

Is a Manhattan good without bitters?

Bitters are a tiny but crucial part of a Manhattan. They add a complex aroma and depth to the drink. Without bitters, your cocktail may taste a bit flat. Try making it both ways to notice the difference.

What is a good substitute for bitters in a Manhattan?

If you don’t have Angostura bitters, try using Angostura orange or Peychaud’s bitters. You can also experiment with orange flower bitters or dash of absinthe for a unique twist. Just keep in mind that the flavor will vary considerably.

Black Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Ready to mix a rich and complex drink? This Black Manhattan cocktail recipe combines the bold flavors of rye whiskey and Averna amaro. Here’s what you’ll need to make a Black Manhattan, along with the tools and simple steps to mix up this flavorful cocktail.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Cocktails, Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Equipment

• Mixing Glass
• Bar Spoon
• Jigger
• Strainer
• Coupe Glass

Ingredients

  

• 2 oz Rye Whiskey e.g., Rittenhouse Rye
• 1 oz Averna Amaro
• 1 dash Angostura Bitters
• 1 dash Orange Bitters
• Brandied Cherry or Orange Peel for garnish

Instructions

 

• Fill your coupe glass with ice water and set it aside.
• Pour 2 oz rye whiskey and 1 oz Averna Amaro into the mixing glass.
• Add one dash of Angostura bitters and one dash of orange bitters.
• Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds to chill and dilute the cocktail.
• Empty the ice water from the coupe glass and strain the mixture into it.
• Garnish with a brandied cherry or a twist of orange peel for an aromatic touch.

Notes

• If you’re into a bold, spicy kick, rye whiskey is your best bet. Prefer something smoother? Go with bourbon for a hint of sweetness.
• Averna Amaro is the magic ingredient that sets the Black Manhattan apart. It adds those rich, herbal notes that make the drink special.
• A lemon or orange twist adds a fresh, citrusy aroma. Or, go for a cherry if you’re in the mood for a sweet touch.
• Don’t be afraid to play around. Try different amaros or bitters to find the version that’s perfect for you.

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