📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Whisky
Alcohol 25%
Calories 200 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 15g
Prep time 5 minutes
The Aperol Manhattan cocktail is a unique twist on the classic Manhattan, blending the refreshing, slightly bitter flavors of Aperol with the rich, robust notes of whiskey. This article will take you on a journey through its history, taste, and the best way to craft this delightful drink. Ready to dive into the world of mixology and make the perfect Aperol Manhattan? Let’s get started! ⬇️
History
The Aperol Manhattan is a modern adaptation of the traditional Manhattan cocktail, which originated in the late 1800s. Aperol, an Italian aperitif, was introduced in 1919 and adds a unique twist to this classic drink. This combination brings together American and Italian cocktail traditions.
- Aperol was first created in Padua, Italy, in 1919.
- The Manhattan cocktail was named after New York City’s Manhattan Club.
- The Aperol Manhattan is a blend of American and Italian cocktail cultures.
The taste of a Aperol Manhattan?
An Aperol Manhattan has a balanced flavor profile that combines the bitterness of Aperol with the sweetness of vermouth and the warmth of whiskey. It offers a complex, layered experience with citrusy and herbal undertones.
I personally love drinking Aperol Manhattans because they’re incredibly refreshing, especially on a hot day.
Interesting facts about Aperol Manhattan
- The Aperol Manhattan is a relatively new cocktail, gaining popularity in recent years.
- Aperol is known for its bright orange color, which gives the Aperol Manhattan its distinctive hue.
- The cocktail is often garnished with a twist of orange or a cherry for added flavor and visual appeal.
Ingredients 📃
- Whiskey: 2 oz (60ml)
- Aperol: 1 oz (30ml)
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 oz (30ml)
- Orange Bitters: 2 dashes
- Orange Twist or Cherry for garnish
A Aperol Manhattan is best served in a **Martini glass**. This glass enhances the drinking experience by allowing the aromas to concentrate at the rim. Alternatively, a **coupe glass** can also be suitable.
Recipe. How to make Aperol Manhattan 🍹
- Fill a mixing glass with ice.
- Add *2 oz (60ml)* of whiskey, *1 oz (30ml)* of Aperol, and *1 oz (30ml)* of sweet vermouth.
- Add *2 dashes* of orange bitters.
- Stir the mixture well until chilled.
- Strain into a chilled Martini glass.
- Garnish with an orange twist or a cherry.
While enjoying an Aperol Manhattan, it’s worth noting that it contains alcohol, which has calories and sugar. For a healthier version, you could use a natural sweetener or reduce the amount of sweet vermouth. Aperol itself is low in alcohol content but high in antioxidants from its herbal ingredients.
Food Pairings
Certain foods can complement the flavors of an Aperol Manhattan perfectly.
Charcuterie
The rich and savory flavors of meats and cheeses enhance the bittersweet notes of the Aperol Manhattan, creating a balanced tasting experience.
Seafood
The cocktail’s citrusy undertones pair wonderfully with seafood dishes like shrimp, scallops, or a fresh fish ceviche, bringing out the natural sweetness of the seafood.
Dark Chocolate
The bittersweet flavor of dark chocolate contrasts beautifully with the Aperol Manhattan, highlighting the cocktail’s complex flavor profile.
I really enjoy the taste of Aperol Manhattans—the unique blend of flavors makes it a perfect drink for relaxing after a long week.
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Bartender Advice
- Stirring the cocktail instead of shaking helps maintain its clarity and smooth texture.
- Using a fresh twist of orange as garnish adds a burst of citrus aroma that elevates the drinking experience.
- Chill your glassware in the freezer before serving to keep the cocktail cold for longer.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Aperol Manhattan, in the sections below we’ll shake things up by showing the customizable elements you can alter and introducing a range of exciting variations to try in your next concoction.
What you could change in Aperol Manhattan
- Whiskey: Can be replaced with bourbon for a sweeter flavor.
- Sweet Vermouth: Can be substituted with dry vermouth for a less sweet version.
- Orange Bitters: Can be swapped with Angostura bitters for a spicier kick.
Aperol Manhattan Variations
Spicy Aperol Manhattan
- Ingredients: Whiskey, Aperol, Sweet Vermouth, Spicy Bitters
- Recipe: Follow the same steps as the classic recipe but use spicy bitters instead of orange bitters.
Smoky Aperol Manhattan
- Ingredients: Smoky Whiskey, Aperol, Sweet Vermouth, Orange Bitters
- Recipe: Use a smoky whiskey variety and follow the same steps as the classic recipe.
Herbal Aperol Manhattan
- Ingredients: Whiskey, Aperol, Sweet Vermouth, Herbal Bitters
- Recipe: Replace orange bitters with herbal bitters and follow the same steps as the classic recipe.
For a non-alcoholic version, simply replace the whiskey with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative and keep the other ingredients the same. This way, you can still enjoy the complex flavors without the alcohol.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of whiskey?
Absolutely! You can experiment with different types of whiskey, such as bourbon or rye, to find your preferred flavor profile.
What if I don’t have orange bitters?
No worries! You can substitute with Angostura bitters or any other aromatic bitters you have on hand.
Is there a way to make it less bitter?
Yes, you can reduce the amount of Aperol or add a bit more sweet vermouth to balance out the bitterness.
Can I make a batch for a party?
Definitely! Just multiply the ingredients by the number of servings you need and mix in a large pitcher. Stir well and chill before serving.
What snacks go well with an Aperol Manhattan?
Charcuterie, seafood, and dark chocolate are excellent choices that complement the cocktail’s flavors beautifully.
Can I make it without alcohol?
Yes, simply replace the whiskey with a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative to enjoy a virgin version.
Enjoy your mixology journey and the delightful world of Aperol Manhattans!
