Creating variations on classic cocktails is fun. It allows me to mess around with already existing recipes and modify them to suit my needs. It might be a bit selfish, now that I think about it, but who cares? It’s fun.
One classic that has had endless variations made of it is the Manhattan Cocktail. Many say this drink originated at the Manhattan Club in the late 1800’s. Wherever it had it’s birth, one thing is for sure, it’s a darned good cocktail.
Here’s a variation that I like to make for myself at this time of the year. Yes, even I bring my work home with me. Would you ever doubt it? Didn’t think so.
In fact, I enjoy this variation so much that I put it on the brand new cocktail list at Ventura’s Offshore Cafe in Northfield, NJ. If you’re in that neck of the woods (half-way between Ocean City and Atlantic City), then pop on over and give it a try. Let me know what you think…
The Offshore Manhattan
1 1/2 oz. Rittenhouse Rye Whiskey
3/4 oz. Carpano Antica Formula Sweet Vermouth
1/2 oz. Allspice liqueur
2 dashes Angostura Bitters
Directions: Stir all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish: cherry