The Black Manhattan is a contemporary riff on the timeless Manhattan cocktail. Originating in the early 2000s, this variation swaps out sweet vermouth for Amaro Averna—a dark, herbal Italian liqueur—introducing a more complex, bittersweet profile.
What makes it so special? The bold character of rye whiskey meets the earthy, slightly citrusy depth of amaro, resulting in a drink that’s rich, smooth, and unforgettable. It’s a favorite among whiskey lovers who crave a sophisticated edge.
Ingredients
Here’s everything you need to craft the perfect Black Manhattan:
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2 oz Rye whiskey (or Bourbon for a slightly sweeter finish)
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1 oz Amaro Averna (or substitute with Amaro Montenegro for a lighter version)
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2 dashes Angostura bitters
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1 dash Orange bitters (optional, for brightness)
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Luxardo cherry or orange twist (for garnish)
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Ice cubes
Substitutions:
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Gluten-free: Ensure your whiskey is certified gluten-free (some are).
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Low-carb: Stick to drier amaros with less sugar, like Amaro Nonino.
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Sweeter version: Use Bourbon instead of rye and add a touch of maple syrup.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
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Chill your glass
Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer or fill with ice and water to chill while you prepare the drink. -
Combine ingredients
In a mixing glass, pour in the rye whiskey, Amaro Averna, and both bitters. -
Add ice and stir
Fill the mixing glass with ice. Stir gently for 20–30 seconds until the drink is well-chilled and slightly diluted. -
Strain
Discard the ice in your serving glass and strain the cocktail into it using a cocktail strainer. -
Garnish
Add a Luxardo cherry or express the oils from an orange peel over the drink and drop it in.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Shaking instead of stirring: Always stir spirit-forward cocktails to maintain clarity and smooth texture.
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Over-diluting: Don’t stir too long—about 25 seconds is ideal.
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Using low-quality amaro: Stick with trusted brands like Averna for balance.
Pro Tips and Cooking Techniques
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Use a mixing glass and bar spoon for even chilling and dilution.
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Taste before garnishing: Adjust bitters or amaro to suit your palate.
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Use large ice cubes for slower dilution while stirring.
If you’re making a batch for a party, pre-mix the whiskey and amaro in a bottle and chill it in advance. Just add bitters and garnish per glass.
Variations and Customizations
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Smoky Black Manhattan: Add a splash of peated Scotch or mezcal for a smoky edge.
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Citrus Zest Version: Use orange bitters and a grapefruit twist for a lighter take.
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Herbal Twist: Use Amaro Lucano or Amaro Meletti for an earthier note.
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Low-proof Version: Mix with less whiskey and more amaro for a gentler cocktail.
Dietary Versions:
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Vegan: Avoid amaros with animal-based clarifiers.
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Low-Sugar: Choose amaros with a lower sugar content and skip the cherry garnish.
Serving Suggestions
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Serve in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass for a classy look.
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Garnish smartly: A single Luxardo cherry adds elegance, while an orange peel gives a citrusy aroma.
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Pair with:
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Aged cheeses like Gouda or blue cheese
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Dark chocolate
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Spiced nuts
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Charcuterie boards
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Nutritional Information (Approximate per serving)
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Calories: 180
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Protein: 0g
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Carbohydrates: 5g
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Sugars: 3g
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Fat: 0g
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Alcohol: ~23% ABV
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make a Black Manhattan ahead of time?
Yes! Mix the ingredients (except bitters and garnish) and store in the fridge. Add bitters and stir with ice before serving.
How do I store leftover amaro?
Keep amaro sealed and store in a cool, dark place. It’s shelf-stable for months.
Can I use sweet vermouth instead of amaro?
That makes it a traditional Manhattan. For the “black” version, amaro is key.
How can I reduce the bitterness?
Choose a milder amaro like Montenegro or cut the amaro to ¾ oz.
Best whiskey for this drink?
Look for a spicy rye like Bulleit, Rittenhouse, or WhistlePig for structure.
Closing Thoughts
The Black Manhattan is a cocktail that honors tradition while embracing a modern twist. With its velvety texture, bold aroma, and bitter-sweet elegance, it’s a drink made for sipping and savoring. Whether you’re impressing guests or unwinding solo, this recipe is sure to deliver a classy experience.
Try it tonight and let your inner mixologist shine. Have questions or a twist of your own? Drop them in the comments or share your version on social media!
