Black Manhattan

Black Manhattan

A modern classic swapping sweet vermouth for Averna amaro—rye, Averna, and bitters stirred silky cold for a brooding, bittersweet sipper.

40%

ABV

easy

Difficulty

coupe

Glass

History & Heritage

Created by Todd Smith in San Francisco in 2005, the Black Manhattan rides the craft‑cocktail renaissance, replacing vermouth with Averna for darker, rounded bitterness while retaining the Manhattan’s elegant structure.

Ingredients

Quality ingredients make all the difference. Each component plays a crucial role.

Method

Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.

1

Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass

2

Stir all ingredients with ice until well chilled

3

Strain into the chilled glass

4

Garnish with a brandied cherry and expressed orange oils

Glassware

coupe

Served up in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora

Garnish

Orange peel

Express oils, discard or drop in

Optional

Flavor Journey

Every great cocktail tells a story through its flavors. Here's the sensory experience you can expect.

3

Sweet

out of 10

1

Sour

out of 10

4

Bitter

out of 10

8

Strong

out of 10

Master's Tips

Professional insights to elevate your craft

Favor 100‑proof rye for backbone

Chill glassware; serve very cold for best texture

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