Metropolitan Cocktail Recipe

The Metropolitan cocktail is a classic drink that dates back to the early 20th century. It is believed to have originated in New York City and was a popular choice among the city's elite during the Prohibition era. The cocktail is a variation of the classic Manhattan, with the key difference being the use of brandy instead of whiskey.

• The Metropolitan was often enjoyed at speakeasies and high-end establishments during Prohibition
• It has experienced a resurgence in popularity in recent years as classic cocktails have made a comeback

The Metropolitan cocktail offers a rich, smooth, and slightly sweet flavor profile. The brandy provides warmth and depth, while the sweet vermouth adds a touch of sweetness and herbal complexity. The bitters help to balance the sweetness and add a subtle spiciness to the drink.

• The Metropolitan is sometimes referred to as the 'Brandy Manhattan'
• The cocktail is traditionally served in a chilled cocktail glass, often with a cherry garnish
• The name 'Metropolitan' is likely a nod to the cosmopolitan nature of New York City, where the drink is said to have originated

1. Chill a cocktail glass by filling it with ice and water, then set aside
2. In a mixing glass, combine the brandy, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters
3. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir the ingredients until well chilled
4. Empty the cocktail glass and strain the mixture into the glass
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry

• Use high-quality brandy for a smoother, richer flavor
• Stir the cocktail gently to avoid diluting the drink too much
• Chill the glass thoroughly before serving to keep the cocktail cold longer

Appetizers

• Charcuterie boards: The complex flavors of the Metropolitan pair nicely with a selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives.
• Dark Chocolate: A piece of rich, dark chocolate can complement the deep, fruity notes of the brandy and vermouth.

Main Courses

• Roasted or Grilled Meats: The bold flavors of the Metropolitan stand up well to hearty meat dishes like steak or lamb.
• Rich Pasta Dishes: Consider pairing with pasta that has a robust sauce, such as a ragù.

Desserts

• Fruit Tarts: A fruit tart, especially one with cherries or dark berries, would be a delightful match for this cocktail.

• Whiskey can be used instead of brandy for a different flavor profile
• Orange bitters can replace Angostura bitters for a citrusy twist
• A lemon twist can be used as a garnish instead of a cherry for a fresh, zesty finish

Smoky Metropolitan

• Ingredients: 2 oz Smoked Brandy, 1 oz Sweet Vermouth, 2 dashes Angostura Bitters, Orange Peel.
• Recipe: Follow the Metropolitan recipe, but garnish with an orange peel instead of a cherry. This variant introduces a smoky flavor that adds a new dimension.

Herbal Met

• Ingredients: 2 oz Brandy, 1 oz Herbal Vermouth (such as Punt e Mes), 2 dashes Angostura Bitters, Maraschino Cherry.
• Recipe: Use a more herbaceous vermouth to introduce additional botanical notes that complement the existing complexity of the cocktail.

Spicy Met

• Ingredients: 2 oz Brandy, 1 oz Sweet Vermouth, 2 dashes of spicy bitters, Maraschino Cherry.
• Recipe: Swap traditional bitters with a spicier variety to dial up the heat, adding an invigorating kick to each sip.