Black Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

The Black Manhattan is a modern twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, which originated in the late 19th century at the Manhattan Club in New York City. The Black Manhattan replaces the traditional sweet vermouth with Averna, an Italian amaro, giving it a darker, more complex flavor profile. This cocktail is perfect for those who enjoy a well-balanced, bittersweet drink with a hint of herbal complexity.

The Black Manhattan has a rich, bittersweet taste with a smooth, velvety texture. The combination of rye whiskey and Averna amaro creates a complex flavor profile with notes of caramel, chocolate, and herbs. The addition of bitters adds depth and a slight spiciness to the drink.

• The Black Manhattan was created by bartender Todd Smith at Bourbon & Branch, a speakeasy-style bar in San Francisco.
• Averna, the key ingredient in a Black Manhattan, is a Sicilian amaro made from a secret blend of herbs, roots, and citrus rinds.
• The cocktail is often garnished with a brandied cherry, which adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.

1. Chill a cocktail glass by filling it with ice and water, then set aside.
2. In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz Averna amaro, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir well to chill and dilute the cocktail.
4. Empty the chilled cocktail glass and strain the cocktail into it.
5. Garnish with a brandied cherry by placing it on a cocktail pick and resting it across the rim of the glass.

• Use large ice cubes in the mixing glass to slow down dilution.
• Stir the cocktail for at least 30 seconds to ensure proper chilling and dilution.
• Use a high-quality brandied cherry for the best flavor and presentation.

Cheese & Charcuterie

Rye whiskey and Averna amaro carry bold flavors that stand up well to fatty and rich foods. A Black Manhattan can be paired with strong cheeses such as Stilton or Aged Cheddar and some spicy charcuterie like chorizo or soppressata.

Chocolate Desserts

The bitter and sweet notes of the cocktail will complement dark chocolate desserts beautifully. Try it with a chocolate lava cake or espresso brownies for a decadent experience.

BBQ Dishes

The smokiness of BBQ dishes like pulled pork or brisket would be elevated by the spicy and herbal notes of the cocktail, making for a robust and satisfying pairing.

• Bourbon can be used instead of rye whiskey for a sweeter, fuller-bodied cocktail.
• Other amari, such as Ramazzotti or Montenegro, can be used in place of Averna for a different flavor profile.
• Orange bitters can be used instead of Angostura bitters for a citrusy twist.

Smoked Black Manhattan

Swap out the rye whiskey for a smoked whiskey to add a campfire twist. Stir it up with Averna, chocolate bitters instead of Angostura, and garnish with a smoked cherrywood cherry. This version takes you on a woodland escape, where each sip is like a cozy fireside chat.

Maple Black Manhattan

Introduce 0.5 oz of maple syrup to the original mix. This sweet twist will provide a comforting, autumnal note that's like wrapping your taste buds in a warm, woolen scarf. Perfect for those brisk evenings when you want sophistication with a touch of homely sweetness.

Herbal Black Manhattan

Add a sprig of rosemary and a lemon zest to the original ingredients. Muddle them gently in the mixing glass before adding the rest. This herby twist will lend a refreshing and aromatic lift to the cocktail, almost like a little herb garden you can sip from with every stir.