Contemporary Classic · Manhattan Variation · Strong
Black Manhattan
In the owner’s words: Richer · Spicier · Incredible! · Bittersweet
- Base
- Bourbon
- Glass
- Coupe or Martini
- Method
- Stirred
- Effort
- Beginner · 4 min
- ABV
- 35%
Build
- Bourbonor Rye Whiskey for a spicier profile
- Averna Amaroor Other dark amari like Ramazzotti or Cynar 70
- Angostura Bitters
- Cocktail CherryLuxardo or other high-quality cocktail cherry · garnish
You’ll need: Mixing glass, Bar spoon, Strainer
Method — Stirred
- Add bourbon, Averna amaro, and Angostura bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice
- Stir for about 30 seconds until well-chilled
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass
- Garnish with a cocktail cherry
The story
Created by Todd Smith at Bourbon & Branch in San Francisco around 2005. The cocktail is a variation of the classic Manhattan that substitutes amaro for sweet vermouth, resulting in a darker color (hence the name) and a more complex, spiced flavor profile.
Variations
Some versions use a mix of amari instead of just Averna. Others split the base between bourbon and rye whiskey. A dash of chocolate bitters is sometimes added for additional complexity.
Host tips
Use a high-quality bourbon with enough backbone to stand up to the amaro. The cocktail is quite strong, so proper dilution through stirring is important. A high-quality cocktail cherry like Luxardo complements the rich flavors.
