Absinthe Manhattan Cocktail : one extra step

Have you ever tried an Absinthe Manhattan? It’s like the classic Manhattan took a fun little trip to the herbal world and it’s a game changer. Imagine this: rye whiskey, sweet vermouth and a splash of absinthe, all shaken up with a few dashes of bitters.

It’s sophisticated yet adventurous, perfect for impressing your friends or just treating yourself. So, wanna know how to whip one up and maybe make it even better?

The Absinthe Manhattan: A Little Drama in Your Glass

So here’s the deal – this isn’t your typical Manhattan. We’re calling in absinthe to shake things up. Yeah, that absinthe. The one with the wild reputation and the green fairy lore. Turns out, it’s not just for poets in smoky Paris cafés or the occasional Halloween party – it actually makes a killer cocktail when used right.

This version hits you with bold, herbal vibes right out the gate. It’s like your Manhattan went backpacking through the Alps and came back mysterious, a little more worldly, and somehow cooler than before. The whiskey brings the backbone, the absinthe brings the twist, and together with the vermouth they’ve got this whole aromatic thing goin’ on that feels both old school and brand new.

If you’ve been curious about absinthe but weren’t sure how to dive in, this is your moment. The mix doesn’t smack you in the face with it – instead, it sort of lingers, rounds out the edges, and makes you wonder why you haven’t been drinking these all along.

Now, if you’re into a cocktail that’s got a little history, a little drama, and a lot of flavor, this one’s calling your name. Sip it slow, let the layers do their thing, and don’t be surprised if your guests start asking what’s in their glass before they’ve even set it down.

Tips To Make It Perfectly At Home

Making an Absinthe Manhattan at home can be a delightful experience if you keep a few key tips in mind.

• Use quality ingredients: The better your absinthe and whiskey the better your cocktail will taste. Don’t skimp on the good stuff.
• Chill your glass: Nothing ruins a cocktail faster than serving it in a warm glass. A quick chill in the freezer or a simple ice-water rinse will do the trick.
• Measure carefully: Too much or too little of any ingredient can throw off the balance. A jigger is your best friend here so don’t eyeball it.
• Stir don’t shake: Stirring your cocktail guarantees it stays smooth and silky. Shaking introduces too much air and can dilute the drink more than you want.
• Garnish wisely: A twist of orange peel or a cherry can elevate your Manhattan. Just remember to keep it simple and let the flavors shine.
• Experiment with bitters: While traditional Angostura bitters work great, trying different flavors can add a unique twist. Just don’t go overboard.
• Avoid over-mixing: If you stir too long you risk watering down your cocktail. Aim for about 30 seconds for the perfect chill.
• Don’t forget the absinthe rinse: A quick rinse in your glass before pouring the cocktail adds a lovely hint of flavor. Just swirl and dump the excess.
• Taste as you go: Don’t hesitate to adjust the ratios to suit your personal preference. Everyone has different tastes so trust your palate.

With these tips in your back pocket you’ll be mixing up Absinthe Manhattans like a pro in no time. Cheers!

Food Pairing Ideas

When sipping on an Absinthe Manhattan, the focus is on finding those perfect bites that enhance the drink’s complex flavors. The herbal notes of absinthe combined with the rich sweetness of vermouth and the warmth of whiskey create a unique tasting experience that deserves some tasty companions.

Here are a few food pairing ideas that will elevate your cocktail game.

• Charcuterie Board: A mix of cured meats like prosciutto and salami alongside tangy cheeses will complement the herbal undertones of the cocktail. Toss in some olives for that salty kick.
• Spicy Nuts: Crunchy and slightly spicy roasted nuts provide a great contrast to the smoothness of the drink. They’re perfect for munching on while you enjoy your cocktail.
• Dark Chocolate Truffles: The richness of dark chocolate pairs beautifully with the sweetness of the vermouth. It’s a decadent treat that feels indulgent and sophisticated.
• Savory Flatbreads: Think of flatbreads topped with goat cheese and herbs or a drizzle of honey. The combination of creamy and tangy flavors will harmonize with the herbal notes of the absinthe.
• Pickled Vegetables: A selection of pickled carrots, cucumbers, or beets adds a tangy crunch that cuts through the richness of the cocktail. It’s a revitalizing contrast that keeps your palate engaged.

Absinthe-Infused Cocktail Instructions

The Absinthe Manhattan Cocktail is a delightful twist on the classic Manhattan, seamlessly blending the herbal complexity of absinthe with the rich flavors of rye whiskey and sweet vermouth.

This cocktail offers a sophisticated balance of earthy and aromatic notes, making it a perfect choice for both seasoned cocktail enthusiasts and those looking to explore new flavor profiles.

With its smooth texture and enticing presentation, the Absinthe Manhattan is sure to impress at any gathering.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Rye Whiskey
• 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• 1/4 oz Absinthe
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish

Zero-Proof Absinthe Manhattan: Replace the whiskey and absinthe with non-alcoholic versions and use a non-alcoholic vermouth to formulate a sophisticated mocktail.

Instructions:

1. In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, absinthe, and Angostura bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes and stir well for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist or a cherry, depending on your preference.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your sophisticated Absinthe Manhattan Cocktail!

Prep Times:

• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Total time: 5 minutes

Nutritional Information:

• Servings: 1
• Calories: 202
• Fat: 0g
• Protein: 1g
• Carbs: 13g

Variations To Try

Exploring variations of the Absinthe Manhattan can elevate the drink’s flavor and presentation in exciting ways.

• Spicy Absinthe Manhattan: Infuse your absinthe with a few slices of fresh jalapeño for a spicy kick that complements the sweetness of the vermouth.
• Smoky Manhattan: Substitute a smoky mezcal for the whiskey to introduce earthy notes that enhance the drink’s complexity.
• Citrus Twist: Add a splash of orange bitters and garnish with an orange peel to brighten the drink and add a zesty aroma.
• Herbal Fusion: Use a herbal-infused vermouth such as Lillet Blanc to create a more aromatic and floral flavor profile.
• Chocolate Absinthe Manhattan: Incorporate a hint of chocolate bitters and a dark chocolate garnish for a decadent and rich variation.

To pin for later:

If you enjoy the absinthe you may wish to try a Sazerac cocktail?

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Absinthe Manhattan

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Only the boldest drinkers dare try the Absinthe Manhattan - what secret ingredients elevate this classic cocktail to new heights? Discover the recipe and more!

Prep Time 5 minutes

Total Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

• 60 ml Rye Whiskey
• 30 ml Sweet Vermouth
• 7 ml Absinthe
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Ice cubes
• Lemon twist or cherry, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, absinthe, and Angostura bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice cubes and stir well for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or cocktail glass.
4. Garnish with a lemon twist or a cherry, depending on your preference.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy your sophisticated Absinthe Manhattan Cocktail!

Notes

Zero-Proof Absinthe Manhattan: Replace the whiskey and absinthe with non-alcoholic versions and use a non- alcoholic vermouth to formulate a sophisticated mocktail.

Nutrition Information:

Yield:

1

Serving Size:

1
Amount Per Serving: Calories: 202Total Fat: 0gSaturated Fat: 0gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 0gCholesterol: 0mgSodium: 6mgCarbohydrates: 13gFiber: 3gSugar: 6gProtein: 1g

This nutrition information was automatically calculated by Nutritionix, but may not be 100% accurate.