What is a Black Manhattan made of?

A Black Manhattan is typically made with: Rye whiskey (2 oz) Amaro Averna (1 oz) instead of sweet vermouth Angostura and orange bitters Garnish: Brandied cherry or orange peel It’s stirred with ice and served either up (in a chilled coupe) or over a large ice cube in a rocks glass.

What’s the difference between a Manhattan and a Black Manhattan?

Classic Manhattan: Uses sweet vermouth Black Manhattan: Replaces vermouth with amaro (usually Averna) The flavor of the Black Manhattan is darker, more herbal, slightly bitter , and smoother overall.

Can I make a Black Manhattan with bourbon?

Yes! While rye is traditional, bourbon works wonderfully in a Black Manhattan for a sweeter, rounder profile . It pairs especially well with richer amaros like Averna or Nonino.

Is amaro the same as vermouth?

No. Both are aromatized , but: Vermouth is wine-based, often lighter and sweeter Amaro is spirit-based, more herbal, bitter, and intense Amaro brings a more complex and bold profile, making it ideal for this modern variation.

Can I batch or pre-make Black Manhattans?

Yes! You can pre-batch Black Manhattans by scaling the ingredients into a bottle: Mix, chill, and store in the fridge Stir over ice before serving Don’t add bitters or garnish until the moment you pour Great for parties or dinner guests.

What’s the best garnish for a Black Manhattan?

The classic garnish is a Luxardo cherry . For a citrusy twist, use a flamed orange peel to bring out the amaro’s brightness.

Black Manhattan Recipe That Feels Instantly Luxurious

Description

A modern, moody take on the classic Manhattan cocktail, the Black Manhattan swaps vermouth for amaro to create a rich, herbal, bittersweet experience that’s smooth, elegant, and perfect for evening sipping.

Ingredients

Scale

2 oz rye whiskey
1 oz Amaro Averna
1 dash Angostura bitters
1 dash orange bitters
Garnish: Luxardo cherry or orange peel
Ice: large clear cube or sphere

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Add rye, amaro, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice.
Stir for 25–30 seconds until well-chilled.
Strain into a chilled coupe glass or over a large cube in a rocks glass.
Garnish with a cherry or express orange peel over the surface.
Serve and enjoy.

Notes

Use high-proof rye for added spice
Swap in Amaro Nonino or Cynar for variations
Use clear ice for professional presentation

Prep Time: 5 min
Cook Time: 0 min
Category: Cocktails / Drinks
Method: Stirred
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cocktail
Calories: ~165 kcal
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 2mg
Fat: 0g
Saturated Fat: 0g
Unsaturated Fat: 0g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg