Smoky Maple Manhattan

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 1
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Get ready to elevate your cocktail game with the Smoky Maple Manhattan. This twist on the classic Manhattan brings together rich, smoky flavors with a hint of sweetness, making it perfect for cozy evenings or special occasions.

Ingredients for Smoky Maple Manhattan

Rye whiskey forms the bold backbone of this cocktail, offering a spicy and robust flavor. Sweet vermouth adds a touch of herbal sweetness, balancing the whiskey's intensity. Maple syrup introduces a natural sweetness and depth, giving the drink its distinctive character. Angostura bitters enhance the complexity with their aromatic profile, while a dash of liquid smoke imparts a subtle smoky finish, creating a truly unique experience.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use quality rye whiskey for the best flavor profile.
  • Try different brands of sweet vermouth to find your preferred taste.
  • Add the liquid smoke sparingly; a little goes a long way.
  • If you prefer, you can lightly smoke the glass before pouring for an enhanced aroma.

Serving Suggestions

This cocktail pairs wonderfully with smoky or savory snacks, such as smoked almonds or a charcuterie board. It's also a great choice for a whiskey tasting night with friends, adding a creative twist to the lineup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use bourbon instead of rye whiskey?
Yes, you can use bourbon for a sweeter, softer flavor, but it will slightly alter the drink's overall profile.
What if I don't have liquid smoke?
You can omit it, but the smokiness is a defining feature of this cocktail. Alternatively, try lightly smoking the glass with a smoking gun.
Is there a non-alcoholic version?
Try using non-alcoholic whiskey and vermouth alternatives, though the flavor will differ from the original.

Smoky Maple Manhattan Recipe Walkthrough

First, gather your ingredients and get ready to mix. In a mixing glass, pour in the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, maple syrup, two dashes of Angostura bitters, and a dash of liquid smoke. This is where the magic starts.

Next, fill the mixing glass with ice. Stir the mixture gently but thoroughly for about 30 seconds. This chilling process is essential for balancing the flavors and ensuring a smooth sip. Remember, stirring is key—shaking would dilute the drink too much.

Once well-mixed, strain the cocktail into a chilled coupe or martini glass. The chilling helps maintain the drink's integrity, keeping it crisp and refreshing.

Finally, add a maraschino cherry as a garnish. It’s not just for looks; the cherry adds a delightful touch of sweetness and a pop of color.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Unique smoky flavor with a hint of sweetness.
  • Perfect balance of classic and creative.
  • Simple to make with just a few quality ingredients.
  • Impressive cocktail to serve at gatherings.

Ingredients

2 oz rye whiskey
1 oz sweet vermouth
0.5 oz maple syrup
2 dashes Angostura bitters
1 dash liquid smoke
1 maraschino cherry for garnish

Step-by-step Instructions

1: In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, maple syrup, Angostura bitters, and liquid smoke.
2: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled, about 30 seconds.
3: Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
4: Garnish with a maraschino cherry and serve.

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