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Blog Techniques & Tricks

Crafting the Perfect Black Manhattan: Ingredients and Amaro Choices

A dark, elegant Black Manhattan cocktail garnished with a cherry, showcasing its rich and sophisticated appeal

Looking to elevate your classic cocktail game? The Black Manhattan might just be the answer. This sophisticated spin on the traditional Manhattan swaps sweet vermouth for amaro, an Italian herbal liqueur, lending complex bitterness and a dark allure.

Key Ingredients

A selection of amaro bottles next to bottles of bourbon and rye whiskey, illustrating the key ingredients for crafting a Black Manhattan
  • Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: Choose your base: Bourbon for a sweeter, smoother finish or rye for a spicier kick. Both pair beautifully with amaro.
  • Amaro: The star of the show! Each amaro brings its unique flair:
    • Averna: Rich and caramel-like, ideal for a classic Black Manhattan.
    • Cynar: Herbal and artichoke-flavored, perfect for those seeking a bit of earthiness.
    • Montenegro: Noted for its citrus and floral notes, it’s a great choice for a lighter twist.
  • Bitters:
    Angostura bitters and orange bitters complement the amaro with depth and citrusy undertones.
  • Garnish: Luxardo cherry or a twist of orange peel to enhance flavor and presentation.

How to Make It

  1. In a mixing glass, combine:
    • 60 ml of your chosen bourbon or rye whiskey
    • 25 ml of your selected amaro
    • 2 dashes of Angostura bitters
    • 1 dash of orange bitters
  2. Fill the glass with ice and stir until well-chilled.
  3. Strain into a chilled coupe or rocks glass.
  4. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry or an orange peel twist.

Tips and Variations

An array of garnished Black Manhattan variations, demonstrating diverse takes on the classic cocktail
  • Amarone Twist: Replace the amaro with Amaro Nonino for a touch of spice and subtle sweetness.
  • Why try it: It creates a slightly sweeter version, appealing to those new to amaro.
  • Spiced Herbal: Use Cynar as your amaro and add a pinch of ground cinnamon when stirring.
  • Serving suggestion: Garnish with a cinnamon stick.
  • Why try it: This adds intriguing herbal notes and a warm, spicy aroma.
  • Smoky Manhattan: Swap whiskey with a smoky scotch and use Amaro Averna.
  • Serving suggestion: Consider a smoked glass for extra depth.
  • Why try it: Offers a rich, smoky infusion that's perfect for those who appreciate complex flavors.

Final Thoughts

The Black Manhattan offers a delightful dive into the world of amaros, orchestrating a dance of flavors that vary with each choice you make. Whether sticking to a traditional rendition or experimenting with new combinations, this cocktail is both versatile and rewarding. Why not try swapping out your usual vermouth for an intriguing amaro, and see where the black magic of the Black Manhattan takes you? Cheers to discovering your new favorite cocktail!

Written by: Ryan Carter