Black Manhattan: A Bold, Elegant Twist on a Classic

The Black Manhattan is a sophisticated variation of the classic Manhattan cocktail, substituting the traditional sweet vermouth with Amaro, an Italian herbal liqueur. This elegant twist adds depth and complexity to the drink, introducing rich, bittersweet flavors with hints of spices, herbs, and caramel. The Black Manhattan is perfect for those who enjoy a robust, slightly bitter cocktail with a smooth, velvety finish. Whether you’re relaxing after a long day or hosting a refined gathering, this cocktail is sure to impress.

Crafted with high-quality whiskey and Amaro, the Black Manhattan is a bold yet balanced cocktail that showcases the unique flavors of its ingredients. It’s a drink that invites you to savor each sip, making it an ideal choice for whiskey enthusiasts and lovers of complex, spirit-forward cocktails.

Quick Facts: Black Manhattan

Method: Stirred
Flavor profile: Rich, bittersweet, smooth
How to serve it: Straight up (without ice)
Glassware: Coupe or martini glass
Alcohol content: ~ 25-30% ABV, depending on the whiskey and Amaro

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Ingredients

The Black Manhattan combines the robust flavor of whiskey with the herbal complexity of Amaro. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 oz Rye or Bourbon whiskey (Rye whiskey like Bulleit Rye adds a spicy kick, while bourbon like Maker’s Mark offers a sweeter, smoother profile)
• 1 oz Amaro (Averna or Amaro Nonino are popular choices, providing a rich, bittersweet flavor)
• 1-2 dashes Angostura bitters (For added depth and spice)
• 1 dash Orange bitters (Optional, for a touch of citrus brightness)
• Ice (For stirring)
• Luxardo cherry or orange twist (For garnish)

Ingredient Notes:
The choice of whiskey is crucial, as it forms the base of the cocktail. Rye whiskey adds a spicy, bold character, while bourbon offers a softer, sweeter profile. The Amaro you choose will significantly influence the flavor of the cocktail: Averna brings a rich, caramel-like sweetness with herbal notes, while Amaro Nonino is slightly lighter and more floral. The bitters enhance the drink’s complexity, adding layers of flavor.

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Equipment Needed

To make a perfect Black Manhattan, you’ll need the following bar tools:

• Mixing glass: For combining and chilling the ingredients.
• Bar spoon: To stir the cocktail and achieve the right dilution.
• Jigger: For precise measurements of the whiskey and Amaro.
• Strainer: To pour the cocktail into the glass without ice.
• Coupe or martini glass: The elegant shape enhances the presentation and aroma.

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Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating a Black Manhattan is simple and requires careful attention to technique. Here’s how to make it:

1. Chill your glass: Before starting, place your coupe or martini glass in the freezer to chill. This helps keep the cocktail cold and enhances its presentation.
2. Add the ingredients to a mixing glass: Measure 2 oz of rye or bourbon whiskey, 1 oz of Amaro, 1-2 dashes of Angostura bitters, and 1 dash of orange bitters (if using). Pour all ingredients into the mixing glass.
3. Add ice and stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir gently for about 20-30 seconds. This chills the cocktail and ensures the right amount of dilution for a smooth, balanced drink.
4. Strain into the glass: Use a strainer to pour the cocktail into your chilled coupe or martini glass. The drink should be clear and free of ice shards.
5. Garnish and serve: Garnish with a Luxardo cherry dropped into the glass or an orange twist placed on the rim. Serve immediately and enjoy the rich, complex flavors of your Black Manhattan.

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Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

The Black Manhattan offers a sophisticated blend of bold, bittersweet flavors. The whiskey provides a robust base, with notes of spice, oak, and caramel, while the Amaro adds a complex layer of herbal, bittersweet richness. The Angostura bitters contribute a subtle spiciness, enhancing the depth of the cocktail, while the optional orange bitters add a touch of citrus brightness.

Each sip reveals a smooth, velvety texture, with a lingering finish that combines the warmth of the whiskey and the bittersweet complexity of the Amaro. The result is a drink that’s both bold and balanced, inviting you to savor its intricate flavors.

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Garnishing and Presentation

The Black Manhattan is typically garnished with a Luxardo cherry, which adds a touch of sweetness and an elegant look to the cocktail. Drop the cherry into the glass or place it on a skewer for a sophisticated presentation. An orange twist is another excellent garnish, providing a pop of color and a burst of citrus aroma that complements the drink’s bittersweet profile.

Serve the cocktail in a chilled coupe or martini glass to showcase its deep, rich color and ensure the drink stays perfectly chilled. The glass’s shape also helps concentrate the aromas, enhancing the overall experience.

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Pairing Suggestions

The Black Manhattan is a complex, spirit-forward cocktail that pairs well with rich, flavorful foods. Here are some pairing ideas to complement its bold, bittersweet profile:

• Dark chocolate: The cocktail’s bittersweet notes pair beautifully with the deep, rich flavors of dark chocolate. Try pairing it with a chocolate dessert or a simple bar of high-quality dark chocolate.
• Charcuterie: The rich, savory flavors of cured meats, aged cheeses, and olives enhance the cocktail’s herbal complexity. Add some spiced nuts or dried fruit for a balanced charcuterie board.
• Grilled meats: The robust flavors of grilled steak, lamb, or pork work well with the bold profile of the Black Manhattan, creating a harmonious pairing.
• Spicy dishes: Spicy foods like chili or barbecue can be complemented by the cocktail’s bittersweet richness, with the Amaro helping to balance the heat.

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Cocktail History and Trivia

The Black Manhattan was created in 2005 by bartender Todd Smith at San Francisco’s Bourbon & Branch bar. It was designed as a modern twist on the classic Manhattan, replacing sweet vermouth with Amaro to add depth and complexity. The cocktail quickly became popular for its rich, bittersweet flavor profile and elegant presentation.

While the original Manhattan dates back to the late 19th century and is traditionally made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, the Black Manhattan’s use of Amaro gives it a distinct, contemporary character. It has since become a staple on cocktail menus, appreciated for its bold flavors and sophisticated appeal.

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Serving Suggestions

The Black Manhattan is perfect for a variety of occasions, from a sophisticated dinner party to a quiet evening at home. Its rich, complex flavors make it an ideal after-dinner drink, while its elegant presentation makes it a great choice for special occasions.

For a larger gathering, consider making a batch of Black Manhattans by mixing the whiskey, Amaro, and bitters in advance, then stirring individual servings with ice just before serving. This allows you to quickly serve multiple guests while ensuring each cocktail is perfectly balanced and chilled.

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Alcohol Content and Alternatives

The Black Manhattan has an ABV of around 25-30%, making it a strong, spirit-forward cocktail. The whiskey and Amaro provide a robust flavor profile, while the bitters add complexity without increasing the alcohol content.

For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of whiskey or use a lower-proof Amaro. For a non-alcoholic alternative, use a zero-proof whiskey and a non-alcoholic Amaro to create a similar flavor profile without the alcohol.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use other types of Amaro in a Black Manhattan?
Yes, you can experiment with different types of Amaro to find your preferred flavor profile. Amaro Averna and Amaro Nonino are popular choices, but other varieties like Amaro Montenegro or Cynar can add unique twists to the cocktail.

Is rye whiskey or bourbon better for a Black Manhattan?
It depends on your preference. Rye whiskey offers a spicier, bolder flavor, while bourbon is sweeter and smoother. Both work well, so choose based on your taste.

Can I use sweet vermouth instead of Amaro?
If you prefer a more traditional Manhattan, you can use sweet vermouth instead of Amaro. The cocktail will be less bitter and have a slightly different flavor profile.

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Conclusion

The Black Manhattan is a sophisticated and richly flavored cocktail that offers a modern twist on a classic favorite. Its bold, bittersweet profile and elegant presentation make it an excellent choice for those who enjoy spirit-forward drinks with complex flavors. Whether you’re sipping it after dinner or serving it at a special event, the Black Manhattan is sure to impress with its depth, balance, and timeless appeal.