Black Manhattan – A Beautiful Mess

The Black Manhattan is a spicier, herbal take on the Classic Manhattan. This variation was created in 2005 at Bourbon & Branch in San Francisco by bartender Todd Smith. If you love Manhattans, this modern twist is worth a try!

You’re probably wondering what is the difference between a traditional Manhattan cocktail and a Black Manhattan? The main difference between the Black Manhattan and the original recipe is that Averna (a bittersweet Italian Amaro) is swapped for traditional sweet vermouth. The other difference is the addition of orange bitters to the classic recipe.

Classic Cocktails: Old Fashioned, Gimlet, Sidecar, Cosmopolitan, Negroni, Boulevardier.

Ingredients in a Black Manhattan Cocktail

• Rye Whiskey – Just like the original recipe.
• Averna Amaro – An Italian herbal liqueur that has notes of mint, lemon, orange, herbs and caramel. This ingredient creates a spicier, heavier cocktail. 
• Angostura Bitters – You’ll use one dash Angostura bitters. The bitters add a lot of complexity to this drink. 
• Orange Bitters – Such as Regan’s. One dash orange bitters is the second distinction that sets this variation apart. 
• Luxardo Cherry – To garnish. You can use any maraschino cherry or brandied cherry.

The best glassware to serve a Black Manhattan in is a chilled coupe glass.

Instructions

In a mixing glass with ice cubes, pour in rye whiskey and Averna Amaro. Next, add one dash each of Angostura bitters and orange bitters. 

Stir until well chilled (usually about 10-15 seconds). 

Strain into a coupe glass. 

Garnish with a cherry.

Tips for Making

• Use a chilled cocktail glass for the most professional presentation. 
• Garnish with an orange peel to enhance the orange bitters and citrus flavors in this recipe. 
• Swap the rye whiskey for bourbon if you want to add more sweetness to the recipe.

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