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Best whiskey for Black Manhattan cocktail

What Whiskey is Best for Black Manhattan? Top Picks & Expert Guide

The Black Manhattan is a sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan, replacing sweet vermouth with amaro for a richer, bittersweet depth. Choosing the right whiskey—whether rye for a bold, spicy kick or bourbon for smooth caramel notes—can elevate this cocktail to perfection. Follow this simple recipe to craft a perfectly balanced Black Manhattan at home.

  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1 serving 1x

Ingredients

Scale

4. Ingredient List:

For One Cocktail:

  • 2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon for a smoother taste)
  • 1 oz amaro (Averna for classic balance, or Nonino for a refined twist)
  • 2 dashes Angostura bitters (or substitute with orange bitters for citrus notes)
  • Ice (for stirring)
  • Garnish: Brandied cherry or orange peel

Instructions

  1. Chill the glass – Place a coupe or rocks glass in the freezer for at least 5 minutes.
  2. Fill a mixing glass with ice – A good amount of ice ensures proper chilling and dilution.
  3. Add whiskey, amaro, and bitters – Measure precisely to maintain balance.
  4. Stir for 25–30 seconds – Stirring ensures a smooth, well-chilled cocktail without excessive dilution.
  5. Strain into the chilled glass – If serving over ice, use a large ice cube for slower dilution.
  6. Garnish with a brandied cherry or expressed orange peel – This final touch enhances both aroma and presentation.
  7. Serve and enjoy! Sip slowly to appreciate the deep complexity of flavors.

Notes

  • Whiskey Choice: Use rye whiskey for a bold, spiced finish or bourbon for a smoother, slightly sweeter taste.
  • Amaro Variations: Averna is the classic choice, but try Meletti for a sweeter touch or CioCiaro for more bitterness.
  • Bitters Substitutions: Experiment with chocolate bitters for a richer depth or orange bitters for a citrusy brightness.
  • Serving Style: Best served neat in a coupe for full flavor or on the rocks with a single large ice cube for slower dilution.
  • Dietary Notes: This cocktail contains alcohol and is not suitable for those avoiding alcoholic beverages.
  • Author: margaret carter
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Cocktails, Beverages , dinner
  • Method: Stirred
  • Cuisine: American, Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cocktail
  • Calories: ~180 kcal
  • Sugar: ~1g
  • Sodium: ~3mg
  • Fat: 0g
  • Saturated Fat: 0g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 0g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: ~3g
  • Fiber: 0g
  • Protein: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

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