Black Manhattan Recipe: Discover a Darker, Richer Twist on a Classic

The Black Manhattan recipe is a refined, sophisticated twist on the traditional Manhattan cocktail. By incorporating Italian amaro in place of the usual sweet vermouth, this cocktail emerges with deeper, more complex flavors that add an intriguing layer of mystery to every sip.

What is a Black Manhattan?

A Black Manhattan is essentially a variation of the classic Manhattan, which traditionally consists of bourbon or rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and angostura bitters. The Black Manhattan swaps the sweet vermouth with Averna, a rich and herbal Italian amaro. This change results in a darker, bittersweet profile that complements the whiskey remarkably well.

Ingredients Required for the Black Manhattan Recipe

The Black Manhattan recipe is quite simple, requiring a few quality ingredients:

2 oz Rye Whiskey
1 oz Averna Amaro
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
2 dashes Orange Bitters
Garnish: Brandied Cherry or a twist of orange peel

Why Choose Averna Amaro?

Averna is a Sicilian amaro known for its complex flavor profile which includes notes of herbs, spices, and caramel. Using Averna in place of sweet vermouth provides the Black Manhattan with a rich and slightly bitter backbone, making the cocktail more layered and sophisticated. Averna's syrupy texture melds beautifully with the rye whiskey, creating a drink that's both smooth and robust.

Step-by-Step Guide to Making a Black Manhattan

Chill your glass: Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer to chill while you prepare your cocktail.
Mix the ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine 2 oz rye whiskey, 1 oz Averna amaro, and two dashes each of angostura bitters and orange bitters.
Add ice and stir: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the mixture for 20-30 seconds. Stirring chills the drink and adds a bit of dilution, which helps to balance the flavors.
Strain into your glass: Remove your chilled glass from the freezer and use a strainer to pour the cocktail mixture into the glass.
Garnish: Finish your Black Manhattan with a brandied cherry or a twist of orange peel. The garnish adds a final aromatic touch to the cocktail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use a Different Amaro?

While Averna is the traditional amaro used in a Black Manhattan recipe, you can experiment with other varieties. Amari such as Montenegro, Meletti, or Cynar can provide unique flavor nuances. Keep in mind that each amaro has its own distinct taste profile, so the final drink may vary based on your choice.

What Type of Whiskey Should I Use?

Rye whiskey is typically used in a Black Manhattan, offering a spicy kick that pairs well with the bold flavors of amaro. However, bourbon can also be used for a slightly sweeter, mellower version. Feel free to experiment to find your preferred combination.

Is There a Non-Alcoholic Version?

Creating a non-alcoholic version of a Black Manhattan can be challenging due to the specific flavor profile of the ingredients. However, you can use non-alcoholic spirit alternatives and amaro substitutes to experiment with similar flavors. Look for products that offer complex, herbal notes to mimic the depth of a traditional Black Manhattan.