The Ginger Manhattan is a twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, which was first served at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the early 1870s. This version adds a spicy kick with the addition of ginger liqueur. It's perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their drinks.
This cocktail is a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and bitter. The ginger liqueur adds a spicy kick, while the sweet vermouth and bourbon balance it out with their sweetness. The bitters add a touch of complexity to the drink.
Cheese Platter
A selection of aged cheeses such as Gouda, Cheddar, or Gruyère can complement the spicy and sweet notes of the Ginger Manhattan.
Grilled Meats
Bold flavors from grilled steaks or pork pair nicely with the robust profile of bourbon in the drink.
Chocolate Desserts
Dark chocolate or chocolate desserts with a hint of spice or orange can enhance the Ginger liqueur's subtle warmth.
Cigar
A medium to full-bodied cigar can be a classic pairing with a Manhattan-style cocktail, where the richness of the bourbon and the bite of the ginger can stand up to the robust flavors of the tobacco.
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Smoky Ginger Manhattan
Replace half of the bourbon with a peated Scotch whisky. This will inject a smoky intrigue into the drink, creating a bridge between the ginger's spice and the herbal notes of the vermouth.
Green Manhattan
Use Green Chartreuse in place of the ginger liqueur for an herby, complex twist that has a touch of sweetness with a botanical kick.
Spiced Cherry Manhattan
Muddle a few black cherries with the bitters before adding the other ingredients. This twist will add a layer of fruitiness and amplify the spice notes, making it a darker, richer experience than the original.
Can I use another type of bitters instead of Angostura?
Yes, you can use other types of bitters but it may slightly change the flavor profile of the Ginger Manhattan. Angostura Bitters adds a specific combination of sweetness and bitterness that balance with the other ingredients.
What type of glass is most suitable for serving the Ginger Manhattan?
The Ginger Manhattan is traditionally served in a cocktail glass, also known as a Martini glass.
How can I make my own ginger liqueur?
Making ginger liqueur at home involves infusing fresh ginger into a neutral spirit like vodka and then adding sugar. The process takes a few weeks for the flavors to fully develop.
What type of Bourbon should I use in a Ginger Manhattan?
Choosing the type of bourbon mostly depends on personal preference. However, a high quality bourbon is recommended since it forms the base of the cocktail.
Can the Ginger Manhattan cocktail be taken as an aperitif or digestif?
The Ginger Manhattan, like the original Manhattan, is versatile. It can be enjoyed before a meal to stimulate the appetite or after dinner as a digestif.