Maple Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

The Maple Manhattan is a twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, which dates back to the late 19th century. The original Manhattan was a mix of American whiskey, Italian vermouth, and Angostura bitters. The Maple Manhattan adds a touch of Canadian flavor with the addition of maple syrup, giving it a sweet and rich flavor profile. This cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate the robustness of whiskey but enjoy a hint of sweetness.

The Maple Manhattan is a harmonious blend of strong, smooth, and sweet. The whiskey provides a robust and smoky base, the vermouth adds a hint of bitterness, and the maple syrup brings a rich sweetness. The overall taste is complex, with the sweetness of the maple syrup perfectly balancing the strength of the whiskey.

• The Maple Manhattan is a modern twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail.
• The addition of maple syrup gives it a uniquely Canadian touch.
• Despite its sweetness, it's still a strong cocktail with a high alcohol content.

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, vermouth, maple syrup, and bitters.
3. Stir well until chilled.
4. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
5. Garnish with a cherry.

• Use high-quality maple syrup for the best flavor.
• Chill your cocktail glass before serving for the best experience.
• Don't over-stir the cocktail, as it can dilute the flavors.

Food Pairings

• Grilled Meats: The bold flavors of whiskey and the sweetness of maple syrup complement the charred, smoky flavors of grilled steaks or barbecued ribs.
• Roasted Nuts: A bowl of roasted or candied nuts echoes the rich, nutty undertones of the Maple Manhattan.
• Cheese Plate: Opt for aged cheeses like cheddar or gouda that can stand up to the strong flavors of the cocktail.
• Dark Chocolate: The bittersweet taste of dark chocolate pairs splendidly with the depth and slight sweetness of the Maple Manhattan.

Drink Pairings

• Coffee: Enjoy a Maple Manhattan with an after-dinner coffee to emphasize the warming notes in both beverages.
• Sparkling Water: Cleanse the palate between sips with sparkling water to fully appreciate the cocktail's complexities.

• Whiskey: You can use bourbon or rye whiskey.
• Vermouth: You can use sweet or dry vermouth, depending on your taste.
• Maple Syrup: If you don't have maple syrup, you can use honey or a simple syrup.

Maple Bacon Manhattan

• Ingredients: 2 oz bacon-infused whiskey, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 2 dashes Angostura bitters, bacon strip for garnish.
• Recipe: Follow the original recipe, using bacon-infused whiskey. Garnish with a crispy strip of bacon instead of a cherry.
• Flavor Profile: The smoky bacon adds a savory twist, perfectly complementing the maple's sweetness and emphasizing the whiskey's complexity.

Autumn Spiced Manhattan

• Ingredients: 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz cinnamon-infused sweet vermouth, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 2 dashes of orange bitters, an orange twist for garnish.
• Recipe: Infuse the vermouth with cinnamon sticks for a few days. Mix as usual using orange bitters and garnish with an orange twist.
• Flavor Profile: Cinnamon and orange bitters give this version a spicy, citrusy kick that evokes the warmth of autumn.

Maple Black Walnut Manhattan

• Ingredients: 2 oz bourbon, 1 oz sweet vermouth, 1 tbsp maple syrup, 2 dashes black walnut bitters, black walnut for garnish.
• Recipe: Follow the original recipe but swap in black walnut bitters. Garnish with a candied black walnut.
• Flavor Profile: Black walnut bitters lend an earthy, robust twist, enhancing the maple and adding an intriguing nutty note.