The Manhattan Transfer is a sophisticated and complex cocktail that elevates the classic Manhattan. Created by the innovative bartender Phil Ward at New York City’s famed Death & Co. around 2008, this drink has quickly become a modern classic. It cleverly substitutes the traditional sweet vermouth and aromatic bitters with dry vermouth and Ramazzotti amaro, resulting in a delightfully bittersweet and herbaceous flavor profile.
The Origins of the Manhattan Transfer
While the classic Manhattan has a rich history dating back to the 1870s, the Manhattan Transfer is a relatively recent addition to the cocktail world. Phil Ward, a pioneering mixologist, is credited with inventing this drink at Death & Co., a bar renowned for its influence on contemporary cocktail culture. The Manhattan Transfer was even featured in the bar’s cocktail book, “Death & Co: Modern Classic Cocktails,” further solidifying its place in the pantheon of great drinks.
The creation of the Manhattan Transfer can be seen as a smart riff on both the Dry Manhattan and the Old Pal. By replacing the sweet vermouth of the classic Manhattan with dry vermouth, it becomes drier. Swapping the Campari in an Old Pal for Ramazzotti amaro brings a unique bitter-sweetness to the drink, giving it an entirely new and compelling profile. This substitution showcases how a single change in a cocktail’s ingredients can lead to an exciting new experience, a concept Ward playfully refers to as “Mr. Potato Head mixology”.
Ingredients for the Manhattan Transfer
The Manhattan Transfer requires just four ingredients, but each contributes significantly to the drink’s overall character. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Rye Whiskey: 1 ½ ounces. Rye whiskey is the traditional choice, providing a spicy, bold base. However, a high-rye bourbon can also work well, offering a slightly different but equally delicious flavor.
- Dry Vermouth: 1 ounce. Dry vermouth adds a crisp, herbaceous note that distinguishes the Manhattan Transfer from its sweeter counterpart.
- Ramazzotti Amaro: 1 ounce. This Italian amaro contributes a complex blend of bitter and sweet notes, along with hints of dark baking spices, adding depth and character.
- Orange Bitters: 1 dash. A dash of orange bitters brightens the cocktail and balances the other rich flavors.
Crafting the Perfect Manhattan Transfer
Creating a Manhattan Transfer is straightforward but requires attention to detail. Here’s how to make it:
Gather Your Tools
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger or measuring tool
- Cocktail strainer
- Chilled coupe or cocktail glass
Step-by-step Instructions
- Chill Your Glass: Start by chilling your serving glass. You can do this by filling it with ice while you prepare the drink or by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, dry vermouth, Ramazzotti amaro, and orange bitters.
- Add Ice: Fill the mixing glass with ice.
- Stir: Stir the mixture gently for 20-30 seconds. Stirring is preferred over shaking for this cocktail to maintain its smooth texture and clarity.
- Strain: Remove the ice from the chilled glass. Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
- Garnish: The Manhattan Transfer is traditionally served without a garnish, but you can add an orange twist or a maraschino cherry, if desired.
Tasting Notes and Flavor Profile
The Manhattan Transfer offers a sophisticated and complex taste. The rye whiskey provides a bold, spicy foundation, while the dry vermouth adds a crisp, herbaceous counterpoint. The Ramazzotti amaro brings a unique bittersweet complexity, with notes of dark baking spices and a pleasant herbal bitterness. The dash of orange bitters brightens the drink, adding a touch of citrus and balancing the other elements. The final result is a well-balanced, bittersweet, and aromatic cocktail that’s perfect for sipping.
Variations and Customizations
While the traditional Manhattan Transfer recipe is excellent, there is room for personalization. Here are a few ideas:
- Whiskey Choice: Experiment with different types of whiskey. While rye is the classic, bourbon, especially a high-rye bourbon, can also work well.
- Amaro Alternatives: If you do not have Ramazzotti, try another amaro with similar characteristics, such as Averna or Cynar. However, note that this will alter the drink’s flavor profile.
- Bitters: Explore different types of bitters, such as aromatic or grapefruit bitters, to create a unique twist.
Serving and Enjoying Your Manhattan Transfer
The Manhattan Transfer is best served chilled in a coupe or cocktail glass. It’s a perfect drink for a sophisticated evening, whether enjoyed before dinner or as a nightcap. Its complex and layered flavors make it a wonderful choice for those who appreciate well-crafted cocktails. It should be served immediately and enjoyed slowly.
The Enduring Appeal of the Manhattan Transfer
The Manhattan Transfer’s enduring appeal lies in its clever riff on the classic Manhattan. By swapping the sweet vermouth for dry and adding the complexity of Ramazzotti, it becomes an entirely new experience. It’s a testament to how the slightest tweak to a classic cocktail can create a drink that is both familiar and utterly unique.
The Manhattan Transfer is a must-try for any cocktail enthusiast. Its unique flavor profile and rich history make it a drink that is as intriguing as it is delicious. Whether you are a seasoned mixologist or an amateur looking for a sophisticated drink, the Manhattan Transfer is a cocktail worth exploring.
