Black Manhattan

On a chilly night we can think of no better cocktail than the warming, rich, balanced Black Manhattan. A traditional Manhattan replies on vermouth to smooth out the spice of rye by imparting sweetness. This riff substitutes the Sicilian liqueur Averna for the vermouth. Averna is made of a secret recipe of herbs, roots, spices and citrus rinds. We blend 4 year old barrel strength rye whiskey with Averna, aromatic bitters, and locally-made Embitterment orange bitters. After blending, it is rested in ex-rye whiskey barrels to allow the flavors to fully incorporate. Finally, we aerate and bottle it just above cocktail strength so all it requires is the addition of ice, a quick stir, and zest of orange.