Black Manhattan

Experience the allure of the Black Manhattan cocktail, where the rich, smoky notes of rye whiskey intertwine with the complex depth of Averna Amaro and a hint of aromatic bitters. This sophisticated drink embodies timeless elegance, inviting you to savor every sip.

Though it’s not midnight black like the Black Martini or the Black Margarita, this cocktail is named for its darker mixer Averna similar to the Black Russian being named for the darker color it boasts.

What is a Black Manhattan?

A Black Manhattan is a classic cocktail that puts a dark and sophisticated twist on the traditional Manhattan. It typically consists of rye whiskey, Averna Amaro (a bitter Italian liqueur), and aromatic bitters.

This combination of ingredients gives the Black Manhattan its deep, rich flavor profile with a slightly bitter and smoky character. It’s a unique and complex variation of the classic Manhattan cocktail, perfect for those who appreciate bold and intriguing flavors in their drinks.

In this sophisticated beverage, the traditional sweet vermouth gracefully steps aside to make room for the Italian amaro, introducing complexity to the recipe.

How to Make a Black Manhattan

1. Add the ingredients. Pour the rye whiskey, Amaro, angostura bitters, and orange bitters into a cocktail mixing glass and add a 1/2 cup of ice.
2. Stir to chill. Stir the ingredients together to chill and then strain it into a martini glass (or a coupe glass). Garnish with a cherry.

Recipe Variations

• Use a different Amaro: While Averna is the classic choice for a Black Manhattan, there are various other Amaro options you can experiment with. Some alternatives include Cynar, Ramazzotti, Amaro Nonino, or Montenegro. Each offers its own unique blend of herbal, bitter, and sweet notes, allowing you to customize your Black Manhattan’s flavor profile to your liking.

Black Manhattan

Discover the enchantment of the Black Manhattan cocktail, where the bold, smoky essence of rye whiskey entwines with the intricate complexity of Averna Amaro and a subtle whisper of aromatic bitters. This drink exudes an ageless sophistication, beckoning you to relish each and every sip.

5 from 1 vote

Print Pin Rate

Course: Cocktails

Cuisine: American

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Total Time: 10 minutes minutes

Servings: 1 Serving

Calories: 151kcal

Author: Aimee Mars

Equipment

• ▢
  Cocktail Mixing Glass
• ▢
  Cocktail Strainer

Ingredients

• ▢ 2 ounces Rye Whiskey
• ▢ 1 ounce Amaro such as Averna
• ▢ 1 dash Angostura Bitters
• ▢ 1 dash Orange Bitters
• ▢ Cocktail Cherries optional

Instructions

• Add the ingredients. Pour the rye whiskey, Amaro, angostura bitters, and orange bitters into a cocktail mixing glass and add a 1/2 cup of ice.
• Stir to chill. Stir the ingredients together to chill and then strain it into a martini glass (or a coupe glass). Garnish with a cherry.

Notes

Use a different Amaro: While Averna is the classic choice for a Black Manhattan, there are various other Amaro options you can experiment with. Some alternatives include Cynar, Ramazzotti, Amaro Nonino, or Montenegro. Each offers its own unique blend of herbal, bitter, and sweet notes, allowing you to customize your Black Manhattan’s flavor profile to your liking.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 151kcal | Carbohydrates: 1g | Potassium: 1mg | Sugar: 0.3g | Iron: 0.01mg

Tried this Recipe? Pin it for Later!Mention @AimeeMarsLiving or tag #AimeeMarsLiving!