Black Manhattan Recipe: The Ultimate Guide to This Sophisticated Cocktail

Imagine sipping a dark, rich cocktail with complex herbal notes and a whiskey backbone that warms you from the inside. The Black Manhattan recipe has been captivating cocktail enthusiasts since its creation in 2005, offering a sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan that replaces sweet vermouth with the bittersweet complexity of Italian amaro. This elegant variation delivers a perfect balance of bold whiskey and herbal liqueur that’s both approachable and intriguing. The Black Manhattan recipe is a must-try for cocktail lovers who appreciate depth and flavor. The Black Manhattan recipe showcases the versatility of whiskey, allowing for creative adaptations while maintaining its essence.

The Black Manhattan recipe is perfect for whiskey enthusiasts looking for something unique and flavorful. To fully enjoy this cocktail, you should understand the ingredients and preparation methods that make the Black Manhattan truly special. The Black Manhattan is not just a drink; it’s an experience that connects you to cocktail traditions while adding a modern twist.

Incorporating the Black Manhattan recipe into your cocktail repertoire will impress your guests and elevate your cocktail-making skills.

The Black Manhattan recipe is perfect for whiskey enthusiasts looking for something unique and flavorful. Each iteration of the Black Manhattan recipe offers a different experience based on the ingredients used. To fully enjoy this cocktail, you should understand the ingredients and preparation methods that make the Black Manhattan truly special. The Black Manhattan is not just a drink; it’s an experience that connects you to cocktail traditions while adding a modern twist.

Each Black Manhattan recipe offers a unique opportunity to explore flavors through different types of whiskey and amaro combinations, making it a favorite among mixologists.

When you choose to make a Black Manhattan, you’re not just opting for a cocktail; you’re engaging in a ritual that showcases the art of cocktail-making through this distinctive Black Manhattan recipe.

For those looking to impress, mastering the Black Manhattan recipe opens doors to variations that can be tailored to personal tastes and seasonal ingredients.

When you choose to make a Black Manhattan, you’re opting for a cocktail that combines rich flavors and sophisticated ingredients. Each sip of a Black Manhattan reveals layers of complexity, making it an ideal choice for cocktail lovers.

Whether you’re a seasoned mixologist or just beginning to explore craft cocktails, the Black Manhattan offers an excellent opportunity to expand your repertoire. Let’s dive into this delicious cocktail that’s giving the traditional Manhattan a run for its money in bars and homes across the country.

Table of Contents

As you savor your Black Manhattan recipe, reflect on the rich history and evolution of this remarkable cocktail.

• Key Takeaways
• What is a Black Manhattan?
• The History of the Black Manhattan
• Ingredients Breakdown
• Equipment Needed
• Classic Black Manhattan Recipe
• Variations of the Black Manhattan
• Serving and Presentation
• Food Pairings
• When to Serve a Black Manhattan
• The Black Manhattan vs. Other Manhattan Variations
• Expert Tips and Tricks
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Recipe Card

Key Takeaways

Understanding the nuances of a Black Manhattan will enhance your cocktail experience. This drink is perfect for those who appreciate the complexity of flavors.

• The Black Manhattan is a sophisticated variation of the classic Manhattan that substitutes Italian amaro (typically Averna) for sweet vermouth
• Created in 2005 by bartender Todd Smith at San Francisco’s Bourbon & Branch bar
• The cocktail features a 2:1 ratio of rye whiskey (or bourbon) to amaro, with both Angostura and orange bitters
• It offers a more complex, bittersweet flavor profile with herbal notes and less sweetness than the traditional Manhattan
• Best served straight up in a chilled coupe or martini glass and garnished with a brandied cherry

What is a Black Manhattan?

A Black Manhattan is a sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail that replaces the traditional sweet vermouth with Italian amaro, typically Averna. The Black Manhattan recipe creates a dramatically different flavor profile that’s darker, more complex, and slightly more bitter than the original version.

The name “Black Manhattan” comes from both the dark color of the amaro and the cocktail’s connection to the classic Manhattan. While the traditional Manhattan has a reddish-amber hue from the sweet vermouth, the Black Manhattan appears much darker—almost black in certain lighting—thanks to the deep color of Averna amaro.

What sets this cocktail apart is its complex flavor profile. The amaro brings herbal, citrus, and caramel notes that complement the spicy character of rye whiskey (the traditional base spirit) or the sweeter profile of bourbon (a popular alternative). The addition of both Angostura and orange bitters adds further depth and complexity.

If you enjoy exploring different cocktail variations, you might also appreciate our article on Carajillo Recipe: The Perfect Spanish Coffee Cocktail , another sophisticated drink with a rich history and complex flavor profile.

The Black Manhattan recipe is perfect for those who appreciate a cocktail that balances richness with herbal notes, making it a delightful choice for any occasion.

Pair your Black Manhattan recipe with complementary flavors for an enhanced tasting experience. The Black Manhattan recipe allows for creativity while staying true to its roots.

The History of the Black Manhattan

With the Black Manhattan recipe, you can engage your guests in a captivating cocktail experience that sparks conversation and enjoyment.

Understanding the nuances of a Black Manhattan will enhance your cocktail experience, allowing you to appreciate its complexity and flavor profile.

The Black Manhattan is a relatively recent addition to the cocktail world, having been created in 2005 by bartender Todd Smith at the renowned Bourbon & Branch bar in San Francisco. Smith’s innovation came during a period of cocktail renaissance when bartenders were experimenting with traditional recipes and introducing forgotten or underutilized ingredients to create new classics.

Smith’s stroke of genius was substituting Averna—a Sicilian amaro with notes of citrus, herbs, and caramel—for the sweet vermouth traditionally used in a Manhattan. This simple yet transformative change created a cocktail with greater depth and complexity while maintaining the spirit of the original.

The timing of the Black Manhattan’s creation coincided with a growing interest in amari (the plural of amaro) in the United States. These Italian herbal liqueurs, long popular in Europe as digestifs, were beginning to find their way into American bars and cocktail recipes. Smith’s creation helped showcase how these complex liqueurs could transform familiar cocktails.

Since its creation, the Black Manhattan has gained significant popularity among cocktail enthusiasts and has become a staple in craft cocktail bars across the country. Its rise parallels the growing appreciation for amari and other complex, herbal liqueurs in American cocktail culture.

The Black Manhattan recipe has gained traction in cocktail bars and homes due to its rich flavor and versatility. By mastering the Black Manhattan recipe, you can impress guests and elevate your cocktail game.

The original Manhattan cocktail, which serves as the foundation for this variation, has its own storied history dating back to the 1870s. While legends about its creation abound (including one involving Winston Churchill’s mother), what’s certain is that the Manhattan has remained one of America’s most enduring and beloved cocktails for well over a century.

Ingredients Breakdown

This cocktail showcases the versatility of whiskey while introducing the unique characteristics of Italian amaro. The Black Manhattan is sure to be a conversation starter at your next gathering.

Rye Whiskey vs. Bourbon

As you explore the world of cocktails, the Black Manhattan will stand out as an essential recipe to master.

The base spirit of a Black Manhattan is traditionally rye whiskey, though bourbon is a popular alternative. Each brings its own character to the cocktail:

Rye Whiskey: With its spicy, peppery profile and drier finish, rye whiskey provides a bold foundation that stands up well to the herbal complexity of amaro. Rye’s natural spiciness creates a more assertive cocktail with pronounced grain character. Recommended brands include Rittenhouse, Sazerac, or Bulleit Rye.

Pairing your Black Manhattan recipe with complementary flavors enhances the overall tasting experience, making each sip a delightful journey.

The Black Manhattan recipe brings a unique blend of flavors that can be enjoyed by both casual drinkers and cocktail aficionados.

Elevate your gatherings by serving a Black Manhattan, a drink that represents not only sophistication but also an appreciation for the art of cocktail crafting.

The Black Manhattan recipe is a captivating drink that has gained popularity due to its rich flavor and versatility in crafting unique cocktail experiences.

Bourbon: Sweeter and rounder than rye, bourbon creates a slightly more approachable Black Manhattan with notes of vanilla, caramel, and oak. The sweetness of bourbon can balance the bitterness of the amaro, resulting in a more mellow cocktail. Good options include Buffalo Trace, Four Roses Small Batch, or Basil Hayden’s.

The choice between rye and bourbon often comes down to personal preference. Traditionalists might prefer the spicy kick of rye, while those seeking a smoother, slightly sweeter cocktail might opt for bourbon.

Since its inception, the Black Manhattan recipe has earned its place in cocktail culture, becoming a staple for those who enjoy complexity in their drinks.

Each Black Manhattan offers a sensory experience that combines the smoothness of whiskey with the boldness of amaro, creating an unforgettable drink.

Averna Amaro Siciliano

As you explore the nuances of the Black Manhattan recipe, you’ll discover the perfect balance of flavors that this cocktail can deliver.

The Black Manhattan recipe not only showcases the skill of the bartender but also invites creativity and personalization for each drinker.

Averna is the star ingredient that defines the Black Manhattan. This Sicilian amaro has been produced since 1868 using a secret recipe of herbs, roots, and citrus. Its flavor profile includes:

• Rich caramel sweetness
• Bitter herbal notes
• Citrus (particularly orange) undertones
• Hints of licorice and chocolate

Averna has a moderate bitterness compared to other amari, making it approachable while still providing complexity. Its deep brown, almost black color gives the Black Manhattan its distinctive appearance.

While Averna is the traditional choice, other amari can be substituted to create interesting variations. Amaro CioCiaro, Amaro Montenegro, or Amaro Nonino each bring their own character to the cocktail.

The Black Manhattan is not just an alternative; it’s an opportunity to explore new flavors. Incorporating the Black Manhattan into your cocktail repertoire will impress your guests and elevate your cocktail-making skills.

By using the Black Manhattan recipe, you’re embracing a modern classic that has gained popularity among mixologists and home bartenders alike.

The Bitters

The Black Manhattan typically uses two types of bitters:

Angostura Bitters: These classic aromatic bitters provide notes of clove, cinnamon, and other baking spices that complement both the whiskey and the amaro. They’re essential to the cocktail’s depth and complexity.

Orange Bitters: Adding citrus notes that highlight the orange undertones in Averna, orange bitters help bridge the gap between the whiskey and amaro. Regan’s Orange Bitters No. 6 is commonly used, though other brands like Fee Brothers or Angostura Orange work well too.

The combination of these two bitters creates a more nuanced flavor profile than using either one alone.

Luxardo Cherries

While technically a garnish rather than an ingredient in the cocktail itself, a high-quality cocktail cherry is essential to the Black Manhattan experience. Luxardo cherries are the gold standard—these dark, rich cherries preserved in syrup offer a complex sweetness that complements the cocktail perfectly.

Unlike bright red maraschino cherries, Luxardo cherries are deep burgundy in color with a firm texture and intense flavor. Their natural cherry taste with hints of almond and spice makes them an ideal garnish for sophisticated cocktails like the Black Manhattan.

Equipment Needed

Creating the perfect Black Manhattan requires a few essential tools:

Mixing Glass: A sturdy glass vessel designed for stirring cocktails. Crystal mixing glasses are beautiful but expensive; a pint glass works well as an alternative.

Bar Spoon: A long-handled spoon for gently stirring the cocktail. The twisted handle helps create a smooth stirring motion.

Jigger or Measuring Tool: Precise measurements are crucial for a balanced cocktail. A double-sided jigger (typically with 1 oz and 2 oz measurements) is ideal.

Hawthorne Strainer: Used to strain the cocktail from the mixing glass into the serving glass, holding back the ice.

Coupe or Martini Glass: The traditional serving vessel for a Black Manhattan. These stemmed glasses keep the cocktail cold without requiring ice in the drink itself.

Ice: Large, clean ice cubes are best for stirring cocktails. They dilute more slowly than small cubes, giving you better control over the final texture.

Classic Black Manhattan Recipe

Ingredients

• 2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon if preferred)
• 1 oz Averna amaro
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Garnish: Luxardo cherry or other high-quality cocktail cherry

Instructions

1. Chill Your Glass: Place your coupe or martini glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes before preparing the cocktail.
2. Combine Ingredients: In a mixing glass, add the rye whiskey, Averna amaro, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters.
3. Add Ice: Fill the mixing glass about ¾ full with large, clean ice cubes.
4. Stir: Using a bar spoon, stir the mixture gently but consistently for about 30 seconds. The goal is to chill and dilute the cocktail slightly without making it watery.
5. Strain: Remove your glass from the freezer and strain the cocktail into it using a Hawthorne strainer.
6. Garnish: Add a Luxardo cherry (or two) as garnish. For an extra touch of elegance, you can place the cherry on a cocktail pick.
7. Serve: Present immediately while the cocktail is perfectly chilled.

The stirring technique is crucial for this cocktail. Unlike shaken drinks, stirred cocktails should be clear and silky. The stirring process chills the drink while providing just enough dilution to smooth out the alcohol’s edge without watering down the flavors.

Variations of the Black Manhattan

While the classic Black Manhattan is delicious, experimenting with variations can lead to exciting discoveries:

The Amaro Swap

Try substituting different amari for Averna to create unique flavor profiles:

• Amaro Montenegro: Lighter and more floral, creating a less intense but more aromatic cocktail
• Amaro Nonino: Grappa-based with vanilla and orange notes, resulting in a slightly sweeter variation
• Cynar: Artichoke-based amaro that brings vegetal notes and more pronounced bitterness
• Ramazzotti: Offers notes of orange, vanilla, and cinnamon for a spicier profile

Each amaro will dramatically change the character of the cocktail while maintaining the spirit of the Black Manhattan.

The Walnut Manhattan

Replace the orange bitters with black walnut bitters for a nutty, autumnal variation that pairs beautifully with the caramel notes in both the whiskey and amaro.

The Split Base

Try using a combination of different whiskeys as your base:

• 1 oz rye whiskey + 1 oz bourbon: Combines the spiciness of rye with the sweetness of bourbon
• 1 oz rye whiskey + 1 oz scotch: Creates a smoky, complex variation (sometimes called a “Rob Roy Manhattan”)

The Perfect Black Manhattan

Similar to a Perfect Manhattan (which uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth), this variation uses:

• 2 oz rye whiskey
• ½ oz Averna amaro
• ½ oz dry vermouth
• 1 dash each of Angostura and orange bitters

This creates a drier, more balanced cocktail that highlights the whiskey while still incorporating the distinctive amaro character.

The Seasonal Black Manhattan

Adapt your Black Manhattan to the seasons by adding a small amount (¼ oz) of a seasonal liqueur:

• Spring: Add elderflower liqueur for floral notes
• Summer: Add a touch of Maraschino liqueur for brightness
• Fall: Add allspice dram for warming spice
• Winter: Add a barspoon of maple syrup for richness

Serving and Presentation

The presentation of a Black Manhattan contributes significantly to the overall experience:

Glassware

Traditionally, a Black Manhattan is served in either a coupe or martini glass. Both are stemmed glasses that keep the drinker’s hand from warming the cocktail. The wide bowl of a coupe showcases the rich color of the drink and allows its aromas to develop, while a martini glass offers a more angular, modern presentation.

For a contemporary twist, some bartenders serve Black Manhattans in rocks glasses over a large ice cube, though purists might argue this dilutes the carefully balanced flavors.

Temperature

Temperature is crucial for a Black Manhattan. The cocktail should be thoroughly chilled but not over-diluted. Pre-chilling your serving glass in the freezer ensures the drink stays cold longer without requiring ice in the glass itself.

Garnish

While a Luxardo cherry is the traditional garnish, there are several ways to elevate your presentation:

• Cherry and Orange Twist: The oils from an orange peel complement the orange bitters and citrus notes in the amaro
• Flamed Orange Peel: For a dramatic presentation, briefly flame an orange peel over the cocktail to release aromatic oils
• Cherry Flag: A cherry and small orange peel segment on a cocktail pick creates an elegant presentation

Visual Appeal

The deep, rich color of a Black Manhattan is one of its most striking features. Serve it in clear glassware to showcase its almost black hue, which catches the light beautifully. The contrast between the dark cocktail and a bright cherry garnish creates a visually appealing presentation.

If you’re interested in other visually striking cocktails, check out our Betty Crocker Recipes article, which includes some colorful drink options that pair well with classic American desserts.

Food Pairings

The complex, bittersweet profile of a Black Manhattan makes it versatile for food pairings:

Appetizers

• Aged Cheeses: The richness of aged cheeses like Gouda or Parmesan complements the depth of the cocktail
• Charcuterie: Cured meats, particularly those with a touch of spice, pair beautifully with the herbal notes in the amaro
• Olives and Nuts: The saltiness contrasts with the cocktail’s sweetness while complementing its bitterness

Main Courses

• Grilled Meats: The caramelization from grilling resonates with the caramel notes in both the whiskey and amaro
• Wild Game: The earthy, robust flavors of game meats stand up well to the cocktail’s complexity
• Mushroom Dishes: Earthy mushroom flavors complement the herbal qualities of the amaro

Desserts

• Dark Chocolate: The bitterness of dark chocolate echoes the bittersweet nature of the cocktail
• Coffee-Based Desserts: Tiramisu or coffee ice cream pairs wonderfully with the roasted notes in the whiskey
• Almond or Hazelnut Desserts: Nutty flavors complement both the whiskey and the herbal amaro

For those with dietary restrictions, many of these pairings can be adapted to be gluten-free. For more ideas on gluten-free options, see our article on Gluten-Free Meals .

When to Serve a Black Manhattan

The Black Manhattan is versatile enough to be enjoyed in various settings:

As an Aperitif

Despite being spirit-forward, the bitterness of the amaro makes the Black Manhattan an excellent aperitif. The herbal components stimulate the appetite, preparing the palate for a meal.

After Dinner

The digestive properties of amaro make the Black Manhattan a natural choice for an after-dinner drink. It’s particularly good following a rich meal, as the bitterness can help settle the stomach.

Special Occasions

The sophisticated nature of the Black Manhattan makes it perfect for celebrations and special events. Its elegant appearance and complex flavor profile elevate any gathering.

Seasonal Considerations

While enjoyable year-round, the Black Manhattan’s rich, warming character makes it particularly appealing in fall and winter. The spicy notes of rye whiskey and the herbal depth of amaro provide comfort on cold evenings.

The Black Manhattan vs. Other Manhattan Variations

Understanding how the Black Manhattan compares to other Manhattan variations helps appreciate its unique qualities:

Classic Manhattan

• Base Spirit: Both use rye whiskey traditionally (though bourbon is common in both)
• Modifier: Classic uses sweet vermouth; Black uses Averna amaro
• Bitters: Classic typically uses only Angostura; Black adds orange bitters
• Flavor Profile: Classic is sweeter with wine notes; Black is more herbal and complex
• Color: Classic is amber-red; Black is deep brown, almost black

Perfect Manhattan

• Modifier: Perfect Manhattan uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth; Black Manhattan uses only amaro
• Flavor Profile: Perfect Manhattan is drier and more balanced between sweet and dry; Black Manhattan is bittersweet with herbal complexity

Rob Roy

• Base Spirit: Rob Roy uses Scotch whisky instead of rye or bourbon
• Modifier: Rob Roy uses sweet vermouth; Black Manhattan uses amaro
• Flavor Profile: Rob Roy has smoky, malty notes from the Scotch; Black Manhattan has herbal, bitter notes from the amaro

Monte Carlo

• Modifier: Monte Carlo uses Bénédictine (a herbal liqueur) instead of vermouth; Black Manhattan uses amaro
• Proportions: Monte Carlo typically uses less modifier (often ½ oz Bénédictine to 2 oz whiskey)
• Flavor Profile: Monte Carlo is sweeter with honey and herbal notes; Black Manhattan is more bitter with complex herbal character

Expert Tips and Tricks

Elevate your Black Manhattan with these professional insights:

Quality Ingredients Matter

• Whiskey: Use a mid-to-high shelf whiskey. The cocktail’s simplicity means there’s nowhere for inferior spirits to hide.
• Fresh Bitters: Bitters lose potency over time. Replace them every few years for optimal flavor.
• Premium Cherries: The difference between quality cocktail cherries and standard maraschinos is significant. The investment is worth it.

Perfecting Your Technique

• Stirring Method: Stir smoothly and consistently, holding the bar spoon between your fingers rather than gripping it with your whole hand.
• Dilution Control: Taste as you stir. The cocktail is ready when the alcohol’s edge has softened but the flavors remain vibrant.
• Chilled Glassware: Always use thoroughly chilled glasses. A warm glass can quickly diminish a perfectly made cocktail.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Over-dilution: Stirring too long or using small ice cubes can water down your cocktail.
• Under-dilution: Not stirring enough results in a harsh, overly alcoholic drink.
• Incorrect Proportions: Measure precisely. Even small variations can throw off the balance.
• Warm Ingredients: Start with room temperature spirits but thoroughly chilled glasses.

Batch Preparation for Parties

For entertaining, you can pre-batch Black Manhattans:

1. Calculate quantities based on the number of servings (maintaining the 2:1:dash ratio)
2. Mix whiskey, amaro, and bitters in a bottle
3. Store in the refrigerator
4. When ready to serve, pour the desired amount into a mixing glass with ice, stir, and strain

This approach saves time while maintaining quality. Just remember not to add water to the batch—the stirring with ice before serving provides the necessary dilution.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a Black Manhattan and a regular Manhattan?

The primary difference is that a Black Manhattan uses Italian amaro (typically Averna) in place of the sweet vermouth used in a regular Manhattan. This substitution creates a cocktail that’s darker in color, more complex in flavor, and slightly more bitter than the original. The Black Manhattan also typically includes orange bitters alongside the traditional Angostura bitters, adding citrus notes that complement the amaro.

Is a Black Manhattan stronger than a regular Manhattan?

In terms of alcohol content, they’re quite similar. Both cocktails use the same amount of base spirit (usually 2 oz of whiskey), and both Averna amaro and sweet vermouth have comparable alcohol percentages (typically around 29-32% ABV). However, the Black Manhattan might taste less alcoholic to some people because the strong herbal flavors of the amaro can mask the alcohol’s presence more effectively than sweet vermouth.

What does Averna amaro taste like?

Averna has a rich, bittersweet flavor profile with prominent notes of citrus (especially orange), caramel, and herbs. It offers hints of licorice, chocolate, and coffee with a moderate bitterness that’s balanced by its sweetness. The overall impression is complex and layered rather than overwhelmingly bitter, making it one of the more approachable Italian amari for newcomers.

Can I make a Black Manhattan without amaro?

While you could technically make a cocktail with whiskey and bitters, it wouldn’t be a Black Manhattan without the amaro component. The amaro is what defines this variation and gives it its distinctive character. If you don’t have amaro but want a Manhattan-style cocktail, you’d be better off making a classic Manhattan with sweet vermouth or exploring other variations.

What’s the best whiskey to use in a Black Manhattan?

The Black Manhattan recipe invites you to experience the elegance and sophistication of craft cocktails.

Both rye whiskey and bourbon work well, though they create different flavor profiles:

• Rye whiskey (the traditional choice) creates a spicier, more assertive cocktail that stands up to the amaro’s complexity
• Bourbon produces a smoother, slightly sweeter cocktail that some find more approachable

High-quality options include Rittenhouse or Sazerac for rye, and Buffalo Trace or Four Roses Small Batch for bourbon.

How should I store amaro after opening?

Unlike vermouth, amaro doesn’t oxidize quickly and doesn’t need refrigeration after opening. Store it in a cool, dark place like a liquor cabinet or pantry. A properly stored bottle of amaro can last for years without significant degradation in quality. However, if you won’t use it frequently, refrigeration can help preserve its more delicate flavor notes longer.

Is the Black Manhattan served cold or at room temperature?

The Black Manhattan should be served cold. It’s stirred with ice to chill and slightly dilute the cocktail, then strained into a chilled glass and served without ice. The stemmed glassware (coupe or martini glass) helps keep the cocktail cold by preventing the warmth of your hand from heating the drink.

Recipe Card

Black Manhattan Cocktail

A sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan, featuring Italian amaro instead of sweet vermouth for a more complex, bittersweet flavor profile.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Servings: 1 cocktail

Ingredients

• 2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon)
• 1 oz Averna amaro
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Luxardo cherry for garnish

Instructions

1. Chill a coupe or martini glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes.
2. In a mixing glass, combine rye whiskey, Averna amaro, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters.
3. Add ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds until well-chilled.
4. Strain into the chilled glass.
5. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.
6. Serve immediately.

For a unique twist, consider variations on the classic Black Manhattan recipe that incorporate seasonal ingredients or different types of amaro. The possibilities for the Black Manhattan recipe are endless!

Notes

• For a spicier cocktail, use rye whiskey; for a smoother, slightly sweeter version, use bourbon.
• High-quality cocktail cherries make a significant difference in this sophisticated drink.
• The cocktail can be pre-batched (without dilution) and stored in the refrigerator for up to one month.

Nutrition Information (per serving): Calories: Approximately 190 Carbohydrates: 5g Sugar: 5g Alcohol: 14g

Enjoy your Black Manhattan responsibly!