About the Midnight Manhattan cocktail

The Midnight Manhattan is a bold, contemporary riff on the traditional Manhattan.

Created by Travis Fourmont, a Detroit bartender, the cocktail won the 2013 Master of the Manhattan competition sponsored by Woodford Reserve.

Instead of sweet vermouth, the recipe calls for Averna amaro, which deepens the cocktail with bittersweet, herbal richness, while blood orange and cherry liqueurs add fruit-forward complexity.

The result is a darker, more layered version of the Manhattan—perfect for those who appreciate the structure of a classic but crave modern innovation.

What Makes the Midnight Manhattan Cocktail Special

The Midnight Manhattan transforms the familiar into something adventurous.

Bourbon provides a smooth backbone, Averna contributes herbal bitterness, blood orange liqueur adds citrus brightness, and cherry liqueur weaves in fruit depth.

A few dashes of orange bitters tie the flavors together.

It’s sophisticated yet approachable, offering a nuanced alternative to the traditional Manhattan. Think of it as the Manhattan’s moodier cousin—ideal for late-night sipping.

Spirit Swaps and Food Pairings

• Swaps: Rye whiskey can be used instead of bourbon for extra spice. Averna is classic, but other amari (like Ramazzotti or Montenegro) can stand in, each bringing its own flavor profile.

  • If blood orange liqueur isn’t available, substitute with orange curaçao or Grand Marnier.

• Pairings: The Midnight Manhattan pairs wonderfully with dark chocolate, roasted nuts, charcuterie, and rich desserts.

  • Its bittersweet complexity also makes it a strong partner for a post-dinner cigar.

Closing Thoughts

The Midnight Manhattan is proof that even the most iconic recipes can evolve.

With its blend of bourbon, amaro, and fruit liqueurs, it’s a darker, moodier take on the classic Manhattan—perfect for slow sipping and late-night conversations.