If you love trying new cocktails, I’ve got a special treat for you today! The Aperol Manhattan is a fun twist on the classic Manhattan, combining the sweet and bitter flavors of Aperol with the depth of whiskey. 🍊🥃 This drink is perfect for those who want something different at their next gathering or cozy evening in.
Why fix a drink the same way every time when you can explore new tastes? This cocktail blends the rich warmth of whiskey with the bright notes of Aperol, creating a balance that will surprise and delight your taste buds. It’s the perfect blend of familiar and adventurous.
Try this recipe and let me know what you think! Do you have your own twist on this classic cocktail? Share your ideas in the comments below! 🥳💬
Aperol Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
Equipment
- Cocktail shaker: This is essential to mix the ingredients well.
- Strainer: Helps to pour the drink smoothly into the glass.
- Jigger: For measuring out the spirits accurately.
- Mixing glass: It’s useful for combining before shaking.
- Bar spoon: Ideal for stirring the mix.
- Rocks glass: Perfect for serving your finished cocktail.
Ingredients
Here’s what I use to craft this delicious beverage:
- 2 oz Bourbon: The base spirit that adds depth.
- 1 oz Aperol: Offers a refreshing citrusy touch.
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth: Balances the flavors with sweetness.
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters: Adds aromatic notes.
I also use:
- Ice cubes for chilling.
- Orange peel for garnish—gives a nice aroma.
These ingredients blend to create a perfect balance of sweet, bitter, and citrus. 🍊🥃
Instructions
Here’s how I mix my Aperol Manhattan:
- Combine Ingredients: Add bourbon, Aperol, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir Well: Use the bar spoon to stir until well-chilled.
- Strain and Serve: Pour into a rocks glass over a large ice cube.
- Garnish: Add a twist of orange peel on top.
I sometimes like to chill my glass in the freezer before pouring for an extra cool sip. Enjoy! 🍹
Notes
Aperol and Vermouth Ratio: If you like it less sweet, adjust the sweet vermouth.
Serving Cold: Keeping everything cold is key. The ice should be fresh and not melting to avoid a watered-down drink.
I’d love to hear how this turns out for you! Let me know in the comments 🍸✨
Tasting Notes
Wow, this Aperol Manhattan is a treat! 🍹 The first thing I notice is the amazing color—vibrant orange with a hint of red. It looks inviting and fresh.
When I take a sip, the flavors really pop. Aperol adds a sweet and slightly bitter taste that lightens the usual Manhattan vibe. It’s unique and fun!
What I Loved:
- Smooth Texture: It feels silky going down.
- Balanced Flavors: The mix of sweet and bitter is just right.
The classic Manhattan has a strong whiskey presence, but the Aperol twist makes it feel fresh and brighter. It’s a twist that surprises and delights my taste buds. Each sip is an adventure!
Have you tried an Aperol Manhattan before? If not, I recommend giving it a go. I’d love to hear what you think! Share your thoughts and let’s chat about this tasty drink. 🥂
Substitute
Exploring different flavors for your Aperol Manhattan? 🥂 Let me guide you through some fun tweaks!
- Vermouth: Switch out the usual sweet vermouth for dry vermouth for a less sweet drink.
- Whiskey: Try bourbon if you prefer a sweeter taste or go for rye whiskey to keep it spicy.
Adding fruitiness to your drink? 🍒 Use maraschino syrup instead of simple syrup.
Feeling adventurous? Add a few drops of chocolate bitters for a twist. 🍫
Garnish choices add a new kick! Instead of a classic orange peel, cherries or a twist of lemon can be refreshing.
Consider replacing Aperol with Campari for a bolder, more bitter taste. Don’t be afraid to mix and match. Your perfect sip might just be a creative step away!
What’s your favorite twist on a classic cocktail? Share your ideas in the comments! 🍸✨
Must Have Ingredients
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Collins Candied Fruit Orange Peel Twist in Syrup For Garnish | Buy On Amazon |
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Q GINGER BEER with Real Ginger & Organic Agave | Buy On Amazon |
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Q ELDERFLOWER TONIC WATER with Real Quinine & Organic Agave | Buy On Amazon |
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Bittermilk No.1 Bourbon Barrel Aged Old Fashioned Mix | Buy On Amazon |
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Portland Syrups Pumpkin Spice Syrup | Buy On Amazon |
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Portland Syrups Vanilla Syrup | Buy On Amazon |
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Original Bloody Mary Mix | Buy On Amazon |
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Fever Tree Sparkling Pink Grapefruit | Buy On Amazon |
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Professional Drink Mixer Set for Beginners | Buy On Amazon |
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1 Pack 3 Tier Bar Glass Rimmer | Buy On Amazon |
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Cocktail Ice Mold With Easy Fill and Release Silicone Round Ice Ball Maker | Buy On Amazon |
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Stainless Steel Bar Tool For Making Garnish for Cocktails & Mocktails | Buy On Amazon |
Tips & Tricks
Mixing up an Aperol Manhattan? Let me help with some handy tips! 🍹
- Use fresh ingredients, like high-quality bourbon and Aperol. They make a big difference in flavor.
- Chill your cocktail glass beforehand. A cold glass keeps your drink at the perfect temperature.
- Go easy on the vermouth. Too much Sweet Vermouth can overpower the other flavors.
For garnishing, I love a twist of orange peel. It adds a nice citrus aroma and looks fancy!
Try adding a dash of bitters. It gives the cocktail a complex flavor that’s hard to resist.
Pro tip: Use a jigger to measure ingredients. This way, the mix will be just right every time!
Remember, everyone’s taste is different. Feel free to adjust the recipe and make it your own.
Experimenting with different flavors can be lots of fun. Let your creativity shine!✨
Share your own tweaks and thoughts in the comments. I’d love to hear how your Aperol Manhattan turns out! 🥂
