In the event you’re like me, you drink numerous Manhattans. Or at the least numerous variations on the Manhattan. I imply, there’s a cause this cocktail has remained in our cultural lexicon for practically 150 years, amirite? I’m at all times looking for new takes on this everlasting basic, the better the higher. They usually don’t get a lot simpler than Dave Castillo’s Velvet Contact.
The concoction was delivered to life lately at Dave’s Truss & Twine in Palm Springs, California and options little greater than a intelligent variation on the candy vermouth element in a typical Manhattan. Instead of Dolin or Antica System, Dave makes use of grappa-based Amaro Nonino with somewhat Pedro Ximenez to create a layer of citrus, licorice, darkish raisin, and a little bit of chocolate, all of which pair completely with a wholesome jigger of cocktail-proof (100 or higher) rye whiskey. You don’t even have to hassle with the bitters! Thank me later.
Velvet Contact
2 oz. rye whiskey
¾ oz. Amaro Nonino Quintessentia
¼ oz. Pedro Ximenez sherry
Mix all components in a mixing glass over ice and stir till well-chilled. Pressure into a relaxing coupe and garnish with an expressed orange peel.