Black Manhattan

The Black Manhattan is a refined twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, known for its smooth and balanced taste. This modern twist uses Amaro, an Italian herbal liqueur, instead of sweet vermouth. This change creates a richer and more complex flavor that cocktail lovers enjoy. The cocktail is not just a drink; it’s an experience—a darker, more mysterious take on a beloved classic that offers a unique tasting journey with every sip.

The cocktail was created in 2008 by Todd Smith at Bourbon & Branch in San Francisco. Its origin is quite recent. Since then, the Black Manhattan has gained a cult following, especially among those who appreciate the bitter, herbal notes of Amaro. This drink is perfect for those who enjoy strong, bold flavors that linger on the palate, making it a standout choice in any cocktail repertoire.

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History and Origin of the Black Manhattan

The Black Manhattan is a testament to the evolution of classic cocktails in modern mixology. Todd Smith made a new version of the Manhattan cocktail. He replaced sweet vermouth with Amaro Averna.

Amaro Averna is an Italian liqueur. It has a bittersweet flavor and herbal notes. This simple yet bold substitution resulted in a cocktail that offers a deeper, richer flavor profile, which quickly became a favorite among cocktail aficionados.

Amaro Averna is one of the key ingredients that define the Black Manhattan. This liqueur comes from Sicily. It is made from a special mix of herbs, roots, and citrus. This gives it a bittersweet and slightly spicy taste.

Using Amaro instead of vermouth gives the Black Manhattan a unique dark color. It also adds complexity. This makes it different from the classic Manhattan. Bartenders are updating classic cocktail recipes. They are creating new and exciting drinks. This shows a trend in mixology and innovation in cocktail-making.

The rise of the Black Manhattan also coincides with a resurgence in the popularity of bitter flavors in cocktails. People have developed more refined tastes. They now appreciate the rich flavors that bitters add to drinks. The cocktail is a perfect example of this trend, offering a cocktail that is both familiar and intriguingly different, making it a must-try for anyone interested in modern cocktails.

The Key Ingredients of Black Manhattan

The Black Manhattan is a cocktail that relies on a few carefully selected ingredients to deliver its unique flavor profile. Here’s a breakdown of what makes this drink so special:

Bourbon or Rye Whiskey: The choice between bourbon and rye whiskey will significantly influence the flavor of your Black Manhattan. Bourbon offers a sweeter, smoother profile, while rye whiskey provides a spicier, more robust taste. The whiskey is the main part of the cocktail. It adds a warm and rich base. This base works well with the bitter taste of the Amaro.
Amaro Averna: As the defining ingredient of the Black Manhattan, Amaro Averna replaces the sweet vermouth used in the classic Manhattan. This Italian liqueur brings a deep, bittersweet flavor with notes of dark chocolate, licorice, and herbs. Its complex taste adds a sophisticated edge to the cocktail, making it a drink that reveals new layers with each sip.
Bitters: Traditional Angostura bitters are used to enhance the flavor profile, adding a subtle spice that complements both the whiskey and the Amaro. Some versions of the Black Manhattan use orange bitters. These bitters add a fresh, citrus flavor to the drink. They help balance the strong, bitter taste of the Amaro.
Garnish: A Luxardo cherry or an orange twist is the perfect garnish for a Black Manhattan. The cherry adds a touch of sweetness, while the orange twist brings a hint of citrus that brightens the drink. The garnish makes the cocktail look better and adds a nice smell. This completes the drinking experience.

How to Make the Perfect Black Manhattan

Creating the perfect Black Manhattan at home is both an art and a science. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you craft this modern classic:

Prepare the Glass: Start by chilling a coupe or martini glass. A chilled glass ensures that your cocktail stays at the optimal temperature without diluting too quickly.
Mix the Ingredients: In a mixing glass, add 2 ounces of bourbon or rye whiskey. Then, add 1 ounce of Amaro Averna. Finally, add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters. If you prefer a slightly brighter flavor, add a dash of orange bitters as well.
Stir with Ice: Add ice to the mixing glass and stir the ingredients until well chilled. Stirring, rather than shaking, is crucial for achieving the smooth, velvety texture that defines the Black Manhattan. Stirring also prevents the drink from becoming too diluted, preserving its bold flavors.
Strain into the Chilled Glass: Strain the mixture into your prepared glass. The cocktail should have a deep, rich color with a slight sheen on the surface.
Garnish and Serve: Garnish with a Luxardo cherry or an orange twist. For the orange twist, hold it over the drink and gently squeeze to release the oils before dropping it into the glass. This final touch adds a layer of aroma that enhances the overall drinking experience.

Pro Tips:

Experiment with different types of Amaro to find the flavor profile that suits your taste. While Averna is the most common choice, other Amaros like Montenegro or Cynar can offer interesting variations.
Adjust the amount of bitters based on your preference. More bitters will add complexity, while less will keep the focus on the whiskey and Amaro.

Variations and Modern Twists

The Black Manhattan is versatile and lends itself to numerous variations. Here are a few ways you can experiment with this cocktail:

Amaro Substitutions: Try using a different type of Amaro to change the flavor profile. For example, Amaro Montenegro is lighter and more floral, while Cynar offers a more bitter, artichoke-based flavor. Each variation will bring a new twist to the cocktail, allowing you to customize it to your liking.
Smoky Black Manhattan: Add a hint of smokiness by using a peated Scotch in place of whiskey or by adding a few drops of smoky Islay Scotch to the mix. This variation introduces a new dimension of flavor, making the drink even more complex and intriguing.
Black Manhattan Sour: For a more refreshing take, add a splash of fresh lemon juice to create a Black Manhattan Sour. This version balances the bitterness of the Amaro with the tartness of the lemon, making it a great option for those who prefer their cocktails on the lighter side.
Barrel-Aged Black Manhattan: For a truly unique experience, consider aging your cocktail in a small oak barrel. This method imparts additional depth and complexity, as the cocktail takes on the flavors of the wood, creating a drink that is richer and more nuanced.

Food Pairings with Black Manhattan

The cocktail’s bold flavors make it an excellent cocktail to pair with food. Here are some suggestions:

Charcuterie Board: The rich, savory flavors of cured meats and cheeses pair beautifully with the bitter, herbal notes of the Black Manhattan. The fat from the meats and cheeses helps to mellow the drink, creating a balanced and satisfying pairing.
Dark Chocolate Desserts: The deep, bittersweet notes of Amaro in the Black Manhattan make it a perfect match for dark chocolate desserts. Try pairing it with a chocolate tart, a flourless chocolate cake, or even just a few squares of high-quality dark chocolate.
Grilled Meats: The smoky, charred flavors of grilled meats, especially steak or lamb, complement the robust profile of the Black Manhattan. The richness of the meat pairs well with the drink’s bitterness, making for a hearty and satisfying combination.
Spiced Nuts: As a lighter pairing, spiced nuts offer a crunchy contrast to the smoothness of the cocktail. The spices in the nuts can enhance the herbal notes in the cocktail, while the saltiness adds an extra layer of flavor.

FAQs

What makes a Black Manhattan different from a classic Manhattan?

The main difference between a Black Manhattan and a classic Manhattan is the type of drink used. In a Black Manhattan, bartenders replace sweet vermouth with Amaro. Amaro is an Italian herbal liqueur. This change gives the cocktail a more complex, bitter profile compared to the sweeter, smoother taste of the classic Manhattan.

Can I use any type of Amaro in a Black Manhattan?

You can try different types of Amaro besides Amaro Averna to find what you like best. Each Amaro has a unique taste. You can try different types to find your perfect Black Manhattan.

Is it better to use bourbon or rye whiskey in a Black Manhattan?

Both options work well, but they produce different results. Bourbon will give your Black Manhattan a sweeter, smoother flavor, while rye whiskey will add a spicier, more robust character. The choice depends on your personal preference.

What is the best glassware for serving a Black Manhattan?

The cocktail is usually served in a coupe or martini glass. This helps show off the drink’s deep color. It also lets you enjoy the smell better. Chilling the glass beforehand enhances the overall experience, keeping the cocktail at the perfect temperature.

Can I make a Black Manhattan ahead of time?

Yes, you can pre-mix a batch of Black Manhattans for a party. Just combine the ingredients in a large container, store it in the fridge, and stir with ice before serving. This makes it easy to serve a crowd without having to mix individual cocktails.

Conclusion

The Black Manhattan is a modern classic that offers a bold and complex twist on the traditional Manhattan. Its rich flavors, derived from the unique combination of whiskey and Amaro, make it a standout choice for those who appreciate depth and sophistication in their cocktails.

You can enjoy a Black Manhattan as an after-dinner drink. It also goes well with a nice charcuterie board. This drink is sure to impress.

As you make the cocktail at home, feel free to try different variations and pairings that you like. This cocktail’s versatility and depth ensure that it will continue to be a favorite for years to come. Cheers to discovering new dimensions in classic cocktails with the Black Manhattan!