📋 Nutrition Facts
Main Alcohol Rye
Alcohol 25%
Calories 210 calories
Fat 0g
Protein 0g
Carbohydrates 8g
Prep time 5 minutes
Embark on a journey to discover the Black Manhattan, a twist on the classic Manhattan with a deeper, more mysterious flavor. In this exploration, we will touch on its storied history, the rich tapestry of its taste, and how it has been adopted by cocktail connoisseurs worldwide. Let’s stir our curiosity and dive into the world of this dark and alluring drink together. ⬇️
History
The Black Manhattan spins a new tale on the classic Manhattan cocktail, substituting sweet vermouth with Averna, a Sicilian amaro. This switch gives the drink its distinctive dark color and name. Its creation is attributed to the modern craft cocktail movement, which enjoys reimagining traditional drinks.
- The Black Manhattan was born out of a creative twist on the traditional Manhattan.
- Its name reflects not only its color but also the nocturnal allure of Manhattan after dark.
- The cocktail is a product of the inventive cocktail culture that emerged in the early 21st century.
The taste of a Black Manhattan?
The Black Manhattan offers a bolder, more herbal complexity than its predecessor. It’s a blend of warmth from the whiskey and the bittersweet charm of the Averna, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on the palate.
I personally find the Black Manhattan enchanting for its sophisticated balance between sweet and bitter notes, making it a captivating choice for any occasion.
Interesting facts about Black Manhattan
- The Black Manhattan often uses rye whiskey, which adds a spicy kick to the cocktail’s profile.
- Some bartenders garnish the drink with a brandied cherry, adding a touch of sweetness and an elegant visual appeal.
- Averna amaro, the key ingredient, is known for its rich, herbal bitterness and is a staple in Sicilian tradition.
Ingredients
- Rye whiskey: 2 oz (60ml)
- Averna amaro: 1 oz (30ml)
- Angostura bitters: 2 dashes
- Brandied cherry (for garnish)
A Black Manhattan is traditionally served in a cocktail glass, which allows the aromas to concentrate and enhance the sipping experience. An alternative could be a lowball glass, which also provides an elegant presentation.
Recipe. How to make Black Manhattan
- Fill a mixing glass with ice and add 2 oz (60ml) of rye whiskey.
- Pour in 1 oz (30ml) of Averna amaro and add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
- Stir the ingredients well until chilled, then strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a brandied cherry.
While the Black Manhattan is a delight, it’s wise to consume it in moderation due to its sugar and alcohol content. Opting for a natural cherry garnish instead of a sugar-soaked one can be a healthier twist.
Food Pairings
A well-crafted Black Manhattan pairs splendidly with a variety of foods. Here are some of the best matches to complement its rich and complex flavor profile.
Dark Chocolate
The bittersweet profile of dark chocolate mirrors the herbal bitterness of Averna, making it a heavenly match that accentuates the whiskey’s warmth.
Grilled Steak
A succulent grilled steak, with its hearty and robust flavors, stands up to the boldness of a Black Manhattan, creating a dining experience that’s truly indulgent.
Blue Cheese
The pungent sharpness of blue cheese cuts through the cocktail’s richness, offering a tangy counterbalance that’s both surprising and delightful.
I really adore the Black Manhattan’s blend of warmth and bittersweet charm; it’s like a comforting embrace at the end of a long day.
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Bartender Advice
- Always chill your glass prior to serving to keep the cocktail at the perfect temperature.
- When stirring the drink, do it with purpose but without haste to achieve a smooth texture without over-dilution.
- Don’t skip the garnish; a quality cherry can elevate the entire drinking experience.
Now that you’ve mastered the classic Black 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 Black Manhattan
- Rye whiskey: Can be switched for bourbon for a sweeter, less spicy profile.
- Averna amaro: Try a different amaro for varying degrees of bitterness and herbal notes.
- Angostura bitters: Experiment with orange bitters for a citrusy twist.
Black Manhattan Variations
Chocolate Black Manhattan
- Ingredients: Add a splash of chocolate bitters alongside the usual ingredients.
- Recipe: Follow the standard recipe, stirring in the chocolate bitters with the Averna and whiskey.
Smoky Black Manhattan
- Ingredients: Use a peated Scotch instead of rye whiskey.
- Recipe: Combine Scotch, Averna, and bitters; stir, strain, and garnish with an orange twist.
Cherry Black Manhattan
- Ingredients: Muddle fresh cherries in the mixing glass before adding the other ingredients.
- Recipe: After muddling the cherries, proceed with the standard recipe, straining into your glass.
For those who prefer to skip the alcohol, a Virgin Black Manhattan can be crafted by mixing non-alcoholic whiskey alternative, a splash of herbal bitters, and a cherry garnish. It’s a sophisticated mocktail that captures the essence of the original.
Q&A
Can I use a different type of whiskey in a Black Manhattan?
You can indeed! While rye is traditional, feel free to experiment with bourbon for a smoother taste or Scotch for a smoky twist.
Is the Black Manhattan a strong drink?
It certainly packs a punch, both in flavor and alcohol content, so it’s best to savor it slowly and responsibly.
What’s the best time to enjoy a Black Manhattan?
A Black Manhattan is versatile—perfect for a sophisticated after-dinner drink or a cozy nightcap under the stars.
Can I make a large batch of Black Manhattan ahead of time?
Absolutely, mix up a batch without ice and store it in the fridge. Just stir with ice before serving to chill and dilute it properly.
What are some common mistakes when making a Black Manhattan?
Over-stirring can water down the drink, while skimping on quality ingredients can diminish its rich flavor. Take care with each step!
How should I garnish a Black Manhattan?
The classic garnish is a brandied cherry, but you could also use a twist of orange peel for an aromatic element.
