Black Manhattan Recipe

A chic take on the classic Manhattan is the Black Manhattan. The cocktail gets depth and complexity by substituting Averna, a rich and mildly bitter Italian amaro, for sweet vermouth. Orange bitters provide a delicate citrus aroma that counterbalances the richness of the beverage. Those who like strong, spirit-forward cocktails with a hint of bitterness will like this version.

Black Manhattan Recipe

Recipe by Chef Sadat KhizarCourse: CocktailCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

1

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking time

5

minutes

Calories

160

kcal

Black Manhattan Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 oz rye whiskey

• 1 oz Averna amaro

• 1 dash Angostura bitters

• 1 dash orange bitters (like Regan’s or Angostura Orange)

• Brandied cherry or orange peel

Directions

• Start by placing your coupe or rocks glass in the freezer or filling it with ice water to chill.
• In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, Averna, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters.
• Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds until well-chilled.
• Discard the ice from your chilled glass and strain the mixture into it.
• Finish with a brandied cherry or a twist of orange peel.

Recipe Video

Tips for the Perfect Black Manhattan

• Pick Your Whiskey Carefully: Bourbon can be used for a richer profile, but rye whiskey is the classic choice.
• Try Different Amari: Although Averna is the traditional option, other amari, such as Amaro Nonino or Ramazzotti, can provide distinctive flavor profiles.
• Creative Garnish: While brandied cherries is a classic garnish, an orange peel touch can provide a novel scent.
• Give it a stir Don’t Shake: Stir keeps the cocktail smooth and transparent.

Variations to Explore

• Gingery Black Manhattan: For a little spiciness, add a little ginger liqueur.
• Black Manhattan with a Turn: For a sweeter, more vanilla-forward taste, try using a different amaro, such as Amaro Meletti.
• Smoky Black Manhattan: For a peaty touch, add a few dashes of smoky Scotch whisky.

Final Thoughts

The Black Manhattan is a lovely break from the usual, whether you’re an experienced cocktail enthusiast or an average drinker wishing to try something different. It is a remarkable option for any occasion due to its complex profile and rich flavors. Get your ingredients together, ice your glass, and savor a beverage as potent and nuanced as the city it’s named after.