The Black Manhattan is a spicier, herbal take on the Classic Manhattan. This variation was created in 2005 at Bourbon & Branch in San Francisco by bartender Todd Smith. If you love Manhattans, this modern twist is worth a try!
You’re probably wondering what is the difference between a traditional Manhattan cocktail and a Black Manhattan? The main difference between the Black Manhattan and the original recipe is that Averna (a bittersweet Italian Amaro) is swapped for traditional sweet vermouth. The other difference is the addition of orange bitters to the classic recipe.
Classic Cocktails: Old Fashioned, Gimlet, Sidecar, Cosmopolitan, Negroni, Boulevardier, Brandy Alexander.
Ingredients in a Black Manhattan Cocktail
- Rye Whiskey – Just like the original recipe.
- Averna Amaro – An Italian herbal liqueur that has notes of mint, lemon, orange, herbs and caramel. This ingredient creates a spicier, heavier cocktail.
- Angostura Bitters – You’ll use one dash Angostura bitters. The bitters add a lot of complexity to this drink.
- Orange Bitters – Such as Regan’s. One dash orange bitters is the second distinction that sets this variation apart.
- Luxardo Cherry – To garnish. You can use any maraschino cherry or brandied cherry.
The best glassware to serve a Black Manhattan in is a chilled coupe glass.
Instructions
In a mixing glass with ice cubes, pour in rye whiskey and Averna Amaro. Next, add one dash each of Angostura bitters and orange bitters.
Stir until well chilled (usually about 10-15 seconds).
Strain into a coupe glass.
Garnish with a cherry.
Tips for Making
- Use a chilled cocktail glass for the most professional presentation.
- Garnish with an orange peel to enhance the orange bitters and citrus flavors in this recipe.
- Swap the rye whiskey for bourbon if you want to add more sweetness to the recipe.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a Manhattan and a Black Manhattan?
The main difference is that Averna (a bittersweet Amaro) is swapped for traditional sweet vermouth. The other difference is the addition of orange bitters to the classic recipe.
What is in a Black Manhattan?
The ingredients in a Black Manhattan are rye whiskey, Averna Amaro, Angostura bitters and orange bitters.
When was the Black Manhattan invented?
This variation was created in 2005 at Bourbon & Branch in San Francisco by bartender Todd Smith. This is very recent considering the classic Manhattan was invented at the Manhattan Club in New York City during the 1870s.
More Recipes
- Appetizers – 30+ Finger Foods for Parties
- Meal Ideas – 60+ Easy Dinner Ideas
- More Cocktails – 50+ Cocktails to Make at Home
Get our FREE recipe guide with our most popular recipes of all time!
Free Popular Recipe Guide
Our top 25 recipes of all time!
Get the Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 ounces rye whiskey
- 1 ounce amaro
- 1 dash Angostura bitters
- 1 dash orange bitters
- 1 maraschino cherry
Equipment
- 1 mixing glass
- 1 bar spoon
- 1 coupe glass
Instructions
- In a mixing glass with ice cubes, pour in rye whiskey and Averna Amaro. Next, add one dash each of Angostura bitters and orange bitters.
- Stir until well chilled (usually about 10-15 seconds).
- Strain into a coupe glass.
- Garnish with a cherry.
Notes
- Use a chilled cocktail glass for the most professional presentation.
- Garnish with an orange peel to enhance the orange bitters and citrus flavors in this recipe.
- Swap the rye whiskey for bourbon if you want to add more sweetness to the recipe.
Nutrition
Notice: Nutrition is auto-calculated, using Spoonacular, for your convenience. Where relevant, we recommend using your own nutrition calculations.
This sounds intriguing!
I love a Manhattan! This is such a delicious twist!
10/10 recipe!!
Oooh! I’m very intrigued to try this one.
👌🏻👌🏻👌🏻
Thank you!!
YUM!
Great twist on the original!
Love this variation of a classic.