September marks the shift toward darker spirits and slower sipping. This Black Manhattan variation swaps sweet vermouth for Dispense, celebrating the opening of amaro season with a British twist on a New York classic. The result honours both traditions.
Ingredients
- 60 ml rye whiskey
- 30 ml Dispense amaro
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Method
1. Stir with ice
Combine rye, Dispense and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir steadily for 20 seconds until well chilled.
2. Strain and serve
Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick and Nora glass. The liquid should be silky and dark mahogany.
3. Garnish and serve
Express oils from an orange zest over the surface, then drop it in - or use a brandied cherry if preferred.
Tasting Notes
Rye spice meets the gentian and wormwood depth of Dispense, creating a drier, more savoury Manhattan with layers of dark chocolate and subtle hop bitterness on the finish.