About the Red Hook cocktail

The Red Hook is a bold, bittersweet cocktail created in the mid-2000s by bartender Enzo Errico at Milk & Honey in New York City.

Named after the Brooklyn neighborhood, it’s part of a family of Manhattan variations that emerged during the modern cocktail renaissance.

The drink is built with rye whiskey, Punt e Mes (a bitter vermouth), and maraschino liqueur, resulting in a smooth yet assertive cocktail that’s both approachable and complex.

Its balance of rye spice, herbal bitterness, and subtle cherry sweetness has earned it a place on modern “must-know” cocktail lists.

What Makes the Red Hook Cocktail Special

The Red Hook is a showcase of three bold ingredients working in harmony.

Rye provides backbone and spice, Punt e Mes delivers rich, bittersweet depth, and maraschino liqueur adds just enough sweetness to soften the edges.

Unlike the Manhattan, which leans smoother with sweet vermouth, the Red Hook is sharper, more bittersweet, and layered—making it a favorite among modern rye drinkers.

Spirit Swaps and Food Pairings

• Swaps: If Punt e Mes isn’t available, use a split of sweet vermouth and a dash of Campari to mimic its bittersweet edge.

  • Bourbon can be substituted for rye, though it results in a softer drink.

• Pairings: The Red Hook pairs beautifully with charcuterie, roasted meats, strong cheeses, and dark chocolate.

  • Its bittersweet structure makes it excellent for after-dinner sipping.

Closing Thoughts

The Red Hook is a perfect example of how modern bartenders reinvent classics for a new generation.

With rye, Punt e Mes, and maraschino liqueur, it’s a cocktail that’s bold, balanced, and worthy of its place alongside the Manhattan itself.