Love whiskey? Meet the Black Manhattan recipe- a twist on the classic cocktail that replaces sweet vermouth with amaro. This change creates a richer, more complex drink. Whether you’re new to cocktails or a seasoned pro, these five recipes offer something special. From traditional to creative versions, each drink promises to excite your taste buds. Ready to find your new favorite cocktail? Let’s explore these delicious Black Manhattan variations.

Classic Black Manhattan

Serving Size: 1-2 cups

Prep Time: 3-5 minutes

The Black Manhattan is a sophisticated twist on the classic Manhattan, using amaro instead of sweet vermouth for a more complex, bittersweet flavor profile.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz rye whiskey
• 1 oz Averna amaro
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Luxardo cherry for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.

2. Add rye whiskey, Averna amaro, and both bitters.

3. Stir well for about 30 seconds until chilled.

4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

5. Garnish with a Luxardo cherry.

Smoke And Spice Black Manhattan

Serving Size: 1-2 cups

Prep Time: 5 minutes

This variation adds a smoky element and a touch of spice for a more intense flavor experience.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz smoky rye whiskey (like High West Campfire)
• 1 oz Cynar
• 1/4 oz Fernet-Branca
• 2 dashes chocolate bitters
• Orange peel for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.

2. Stir well for about 30 seconds until thoroughly chilled.

3. Strain into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.

4. Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in as garnish.

Nutty Black Manhattan

Serving Size: 2 cups

Prep Time: 5 minutes

This version incorporates a nutty flavor profile for a rich and indulgent twist on the Black Manhattan.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz bourbon
• 3/4 oz Averna amaro
• 1/4 oz nocino (walnut liqueur)
• 2 dashes black walnut bitters
• Candied walnut for garnish

Instructions:

1. Add all liquid ingredients to a mixing glass filled with ice.

2. Stir well for about 30 seconds until very cold.

3. Strain into a chilled Nick & Nora glass.

4. Garnish with a candied walnut.

Herbaceous Black Manhattan

Serving Size: 1-2 cups

Prep Time: 3 minutes

This variation leans into herbal flavors for a more complex and aromatic cocktail.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz rye whiskey
• 3/4 oz Amaro Montenegro
• 1/4 oz green Chartreuse
• 1 dash celery bitters
• Lemon twist for garnish

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.

2. Add all liquid ingredients and stir well for about 30 seconds.

3. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.

4. Garnish with a lemon twist, expressing the oils over the drink.

Tropical Black Manhattan

Serving Size: 1 cup

Prep Time: 3-5 minutes

This unexpected twist brings tropical flavors to the Black Manhattan for a unique fusion.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz aged rum
• 3/4 oz Averna amaro
• 1/4 oz coffee liqueur
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Pineapple frond for garnish

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice.

2. Stir well for about 30 seconds until thoroughly chilled.

3. Strain into a rocks glass filled with crushed ice.

4. Garnish with a pineapple frond.