The Black Manhattan is a modern twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail that replaces sweet vermouth with Amaro, a bitter Italian herbal liqueur that brings depth, complexity, and a unique character to the drink. Created by bartender Todd Smith in 2005, the Black Manhattan quickly became a favorite among cocktail lovers who enjoy its bold, layered flavors. The key to a great Black Manhattan lies in picking the right Amaro, which can transform the cocktail from ordinary to extraordinary.
Understanding Amaro
Amaro means “bitter” in Italian and refers to a herbal liqueur traditionally consumed after meals to aid digestion. Made by blending a base spirit with herbs, roots, flowers, bark, and citrus peels, Amaro is sweetened with sugar or syrup. This creates a mix of bitter, sweet, and herbal flavors, making Amaro perfect for substituting sweet vermouth in a Manhattan. Amari come in a range of flavors, from light and citrusy to intensely bitter and herbal, offering many ways to customize your Black Manhattan. You can explore more about Amaro and its history in Liquor.com’s guide to Amaro.
Key Ingredients of Black Manhattan
The simplicity of the Black Manhattan is what makes it so appealing. Each ingredient plays a critical role in shaping the drink’s unique flavor:
-
Rye or Bourbon: The base of the Black Manhattan, rye adds spice, while bourbon brings a sweeter, smoother profile.
-
Amaro: The highlight of the drink, replacing sweet vermouth with bitter, herbal notes that define the cocktail.
-
Bitters: Typically Angostura or orange bitters, these enhance the complexity and add a hint of spice.
-
Garnish: A cherry or orange twist finishes the drink, adding a final layer of flavor and aroma.
Why Use Amaro Instead of Vermouth?
Swapping vermouth for Amaro does more than just change the drink; it elevates it. Vermouth provides a sweet, wine-like base, while Amaro introduces a broader range of flavors—bitter, herbal, and sweet. This change turns a Manhattan into a Black Manhattan, taking it from a classic to a modern masterpiece.
-
Expanded Flavor Profiles: Amari can match different whiskeys beautifully. For example, pairing a spicier rye with a bold Amaro like Fernet creates a deeply layered drink, while a lighter Amaro like Nonino pairs well with bourbon’s smooth notes.
-
Added Bitterness and Depth: Amari bring complexity and depth that vermouth lacks. The bitter and herbal notes of Amaro enhance the whiskey’s natural flavors rather than hiding them.
-
Digestive Benefits: Traditionally, people drink Amaro as a digestif, believing it aids digestion due to its herbal properties. While this benefit isn’t proven scientifically, it adds an interesting aspect for those who enjoy their cocktail with health in mind.
How to Choose the Best Amaro for Black Manhattan
When choosing an Amaro for your Black Manhattan, think about these factors:
-
Flavor Profile: Amari range from sweet and fruity to bitter and intensely herbal. Pick one that matches your taste and complements your whiskey.
-
Whiskey Pairing:
The Amaro should match the whiskey’s flavor. Spicy rye pairs well with bold, bitter Amari, while sweeter bourbons blend nicely with lighter, fruitier options.
-
Alcohol Strength: Amari vary in alcohol content, from 16% to 40%. A higher alcohol content Amaro will add more body and strength to your cocktail.
-
Personal Preference: Ultimately, the best Amaro is the one that you enjoy most. Don’t hesitate to try different combinations until you find your favorite.
Top Amaro Options for Black Manhattan
Choosing the right Amaro makes a big difference in crafting a Black Manhattan that suits your style. Here’s a closer look at some of the best options:
-
Averna (Standard Choice)
- Flavor Profile: Averna offers a blend of bitter herbs, citrus, and caramel sweetness, making it an easy choice for those new to Amaro. Its smooth and balanced bitterness suits many types of cocktails.
- Best Pairings: Pairs well with both rye and bourbon, providing a balanced Black Manhattan that maintains a classic taste.
- Additional Notes: Averna’s versatility also makes it great when enjoyed neat or over ice.
-
Ramazzotti (For Sweet and Fruity Notes)
- Flavor Profile: Ramazzotti features notes of cola, root beer, and spices like chicory and cinnamon. This Amaro has a lighter bitterness and a fruity undertone, setting it apart from others.
- Best Pairings: Works beautifully with rye, enhancing the whiskey’s spice with a touch of sweetness.
- Additional Notes: Besides being great in cocktails, Ramazzotti can be enjoyed as a refreshing aperitif.
-
Sfumato (Lightly Smoky)
- Flavor Profile: Sfumato’s unique smoky flavor comes from rhubarb, offering a light bitterness and airy smokiness to the drink.
- Best Pairings: Ideal for mellow rye or bourbon, adding a touch of smoke without overpowering the other flavors.
- Additional Notes: Sfumato adds smoky notes without the intensity of peated whiskies, making it a versatile choice for many cocktails.
-
Nonino (Citrusy and Light)
- Flavor Profile: Known for its citrus character, especially orange, Nonino is a light option that brightens any Black Manhattan. It’s less bitter than other Amari, making it a great choice for a fruit-forward drink.
- Best Pairings: Best with bourbon, as the citrus notes complement the rich, caramel flavors of the whiskey.
- Additional Notes: Nonino is also perfect in spritzes or simply over ice with a twist of lemon.
-
Cardamaro (Dry and Nutty)
- Flavor Profile: Cardamaro is wine-based with cardoons and blessed thistle, bringing nutty, earthy notes and a dry, sherry-like finish.
- Best Pairings: Complements spicy rye, adding an intriguing twist that elevates the cocktail.
- Additional Notes: Cardamaro can also replace vermouth in other classic cocktails for a fresh take.
-
Cynar (Earthy and Vegetal)
- Flavor Profile: Made from artichokes, Cynar offers vegetal bitterness with hints of menthol, licorice, and espresso. Its earthy flavor makes it stand out from other Amari.
- Best Pairings: Works well with bold rye, adding a unique, earthy complexity to the drink.
- Additional Notes: Cynar is also a great option when sipped with soda or tonic.
-
Fernet (For a Bold and Intense Manhattan)
- Flavor Profile: Fernet is known for its strong, bitter, and minty notes. Its intense flavor can dominate the cocktail, making it a choice for those who love bold drinks.
- Best Pairings: Best with high-proof bourbon or rye that can stand up to its powerful taste.
- Additional Notes: Often consumed as a digestif, Fernet is also a popular choice in adventurous cocktails.
How to Make a Black Manhattan: Step-by-Step Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz Rye or Bourbon
- 1 oz Amaro of your choice
- 1-2 dashes Angostura or Orange Bitters
- Garnish: Cherry or Orange Twist
Instructions:
- Combine the rye or bourbon, Amaro, and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir well until chilled, then strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Garnish with a cherry or an orange twist.
Tips:
- Start with 1 oz of Amaro and adjust to taste. If it’s too bitter, reduce the amount slightly or add a touch of simple syrup.
- Experiment with different bitters to complement the chosen Amaro. For example, orange bitters enhance citrusy Amari like Nonino, while Angostura pairs well with herbal options like Cynar.
Experimenting with Black Manhattan Variations
One of the great joys of the Black Manhattan is the freedom to experiment. You can create endless variations by adjusting the type and amount of Amaro, swapping rye for bourbon, or even introducing additional ingredients like flavored bitters or liqueurs. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
-
Smoky Black Manhattan: Use Sfumato and add a dash of smoked bitters for an extra layer of smokiness. This combination adds a sophisticated touch that will impress even the most discerning palate.
-
Citrus-Forward Black Manhattan: Combine bourbon with Nonino and a dash of orange bitters, garnished with an orange peel for a bright, citrusy twist. This variation brings a refreshing quality that’s perfect for summer sipping.
-
Bold and Bitter Black Manhattan:
For those who love intense flavors, mix a high-proof rye with Fernet and Angostura bitters, garnished with a mint sprig. This variation is bold and complex, perfect for those who enjoy a challenging drink.
Pairing Amaro with Other Cocktails
Beyond the Black Manhattan, Amaro can enhance a wide variety of classic and modern cocktails:
-
Negroni Variations: Swap the traditional Campari for a lighter Amaro like Nonino for a refreshing twist.
-
Amaro Spritz: Mix Amaro with prosecco and a splash of soda for a light, effervescent aperitif.
-
Amaro Old Fashioned:
Replace the sugar cube with Amaro in an Old Fashioned to add complexity and herbal depth.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making a Black Manhattan
Even experienced bartenders can make missteps when crafting a Black Manhattan. Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your cocktail is perfectly balanced:
- Overwhelming the Cocktail with Amaro: It’s easy to overpower the drink by using too much Amaro. Start with 1 oz and adjust based on your taste.
- Choosing an Incompatible Amaro: Not all Amari work well in a Black Manhattan. Avoid overly sweet or intensely bitter options that clash with your whiskey.
- Skipping the Bitters: Bitters add essential depth and balance to the cocktail. Don’t skip them, as they tie the flavors together.
FAQs About Black Manhattan and Amaro
-
What is the best Amaro for Black Manhattan?
- Averna, Cynar, and Nonino are popular choices, but the best Amaro depends on your personal taste and the whiskey you’re using.
-
Can I substitute Amaro with other ingredients?
- While you can’t directly substitute Amaro, you can adjust the balance of bitters and add a touch of liqueur to mimic some of its flavors.
-
How do different Amari affect the taste of Black Manhattan?
- Each Amaro offers a unique flavor profile, from light and citrusy to intensely bitter and herbal, allowing you to customize the cocktail to your liking.
-
Which whiskey works best with each type of Amaro?
- Spicy ryes pair well with bitter and smoky Amari, while sweeter bourbons blend beautifully with lighter, fruitier options.
-
Is Amaro healthier than other spirits?
- While Amaro contains beneficial herbs, it is still alcohol and should be consumed responsibly. Some believe it aids digestion, but this is more tradition than science.
Conclusion
The Black Manhattan is more than just a cocktail; it’s an invitation to explore the world of Amaro and discover how its complex flavors can elevate a simple whiskey drink. By choosing the right Amaro, you can create a Black Manhattan that suits your taste, whether you prefer the approachable sweetness of Averna, the bold bitterness of Fernet, or the earthy profile of Cynar. For more inspiration and variations on classic Manhattan cocktails, consider exploring the Brandy Manhattan guide to further expand your cocktail repertoire. Enjoy experimenting and perfecting your ideal Black Manhattan!