November 7, 2024
For this week, I wanted to feature one of my favorite Modern Classic cocktails, one that I’ve found to be very well received anytime I bring it out for a class or event. The Black Manhattan was created in 2005 by Todd Smith, then of San Francisco bar Cortez. Cocktail author Robert Simonson included this mix in his pantheon of Modern Classic Cocktails because it has risen to a status of true ubiquity. One can call for a Black Manhattan in most well-stocked cocktail bars now and reasonably expect to receive this drink. Simple and elegant, it’s gained this status partly for the exact reasons I appreciate it - it’s remarkably straight-forward yet wonderfully versatile.
The original recipe calls for rye, but one can use another whiskey in its stead. When last I made it, I used our Nautical Horizon Straight Bourbon, and this build was especially rich and full. Amaro Averna is the star second player traditionally, and with good cause. This delicious Sicilian amaro brings measured cola sweetness, tempered with rounded baking spice, and bittersweet citrus. Playing with different amari is another great experimental avenue for this drink, though it must be done with cognizance that amari vary widely in proprietary flavors and sweetness levels. Lastly, the original build calls for a blend of Angostura and orange bitters, to complement the baking spice and citrus notes in the whiskey and amaro.
Make this one exactly as it was created and you’ll have an outstanding drink perfectly suited for November weather! Or get creative with different spirits, amari, and bitters, and build a flavor profile all your own! For instance, last year I riffed on this recipe for one of our Winter cocktail features. I subbed in 12 year Demerara rum, chocolatey Fernet Vallet from Mexico, and Bittermens Elemakule Tiki Bitters for a touch of cinnamon and allspice. Named The Black Spot, in reference to Robert Louis Stevenson’s Treasure Island, it’s one I’ve kept in my drink rotation since!
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Black Manhattan Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. rye whiskey
- 1 oz. Amaro Averna
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- 1 dash Regans’ orange bitters
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Combine all ingredients in mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe.
- Optional garnish with a Maraschino cherry
The Black Spot Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz. aged Demerara rum (rec. El Dorado 12 Year)
- 1 oz. Fernet Vallet
- 3 dashes Bittermens Elemakule Tiki Bitters
Step-by-Step Recipe:
- Combine all ingredients in mixing glass with ice.
- Stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled Gibraltar glass without a garnish.
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