Smoke & Spice: A Mezcal Manhattan Twist on a Classic

The Manhattan. A timeless cocktail, synonymous with sophistication and class. But what if we gave it a smoky, south-of-the-border twist? Enter the Mezcal Manhattan, a modern variation that swaps rye whiskey for its Oaxacan cousin, mezcal, for a truly unique flavor experience.

This recipe is a delightful balance of smoke, spice, and sweetness, perfect for adventurous palates who appreciate a complex drink. It's surprisingly easy to make, requiring just a few key ingredients and a few shakes of your cocktail shaker.

Ingredients:

• 2 oz Mezcal (Espadin for a smoother flavor, Tepeztate for smokier notes)
• ¾ oz Sweet Vermouth
• 2 dashes Orange Bitters
• Luxardo Maraschino Cherry (optional)
• Orange Peel (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice and let it chill for a few minutes.
2. Add the mezcal, sweet vermouth, and orange bitters to the chilled mixing glass.
3. Stir gently for 30 seconds, diluting and chilling the drink without bruising the ice.
4. Strain into a chilled coupe glass.
5. Garnish with a Luxardo maraschino cherry (optional) and a freshly expressed orange peel.

Tips:

• For a spicier kick, add a dash of Angostura bitters alongside the orange bitters.
• If you prefer a sweeter drink, increase the amount of sweet vermouth to 1 oz.
• Smoked paprika salt on the rim of the glass adds another layer of smoky complexity.
• Experiment with different types of mezcal to find your perfect flavor profile.
• Use high-quality ingredients for the best results.

The smoky notes of the mezcal mingle beautifully with the sweetness of the vermouth, creating a complex and satisfying flavor profile. The orange bitters add a touch of citrusy brightness, while the Luxardo maraschino cherry (if used) provides a delightful sweet and boozy finish.

This Mezcal Manhattan is a perfect conversation starter for your next gathering. It's sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor and modern twist on a classic cocktail. So, why not raise a glass to something new and exciting? Cheers!