Fernet Manhattan

13 Thanksgiving Cocktails: Fernet Manhattan

This Fernet Manhattan is a twist on the classic cocktail. Fernet adds complex depth to the already flavorful concoction, lending unique spiciness. 

What Is Fernet?

Fernet is an Italian Amaro: an herbal liqueur known for its bitter sweet flavor. It’s made from a variety of herbs and spices, lending to its polarizing flavor. It commonly is served as a digestif to settle the stomach after a meal. 

Fernet Manhattan

Making A Fernet Manhattan

When I was ideating cocktails that I wanted to share for Thanksgiving, I knew I wanted to share a recipe that included Fernet. Knowing its popularity (despite its polarizing flavor) I wanted to share a beverage that would introduce people to this unique spirit. 

This cocktail was suggested by my friend Erik Eastman: owner of Easy &  Company, Director of Sales for Minnesota Pure Clear Ice, and expert of all things cocktails. I reached out seeking advice and guidance for what to do with Fernet. While he offered a couple ideas, a Fernet Manhattan was exactly what I wanted: a familiar recipe that would introduce Fernet in an unassuming way. 

Fernet Manhattan

How To Make a Fernet Manhattan

First things first, the classic Manhattan cocktail includes 4 ingredients: 

  • Whiskey 
  • Sweet Vermouth
  • Bitters
  • Cherry 

The liquid ingredients are stirred until chilled and garnished with a maraschino or brandied cherry. 

In this version recommended by Erik, half of the Sweet Vermouth is replaced with aromatic Fernet. It adds herbaceous spiciness that’s complex, potent, and might just take a little longer to sip on. I swapped cherry bitters for the classic maraschino or brandied cherry offering some sweet relief, albeit a small amount. 

The finishing touch? A stunning and perfectly clear rock from Minnesota Pure Clear Ice, of course. 

Fernet Manhattan
13 Thanksgiving Cocktails: Fernet Manhattan

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Fernet Manhattan

This Fernet Manhattan is a twist on the classic cocktail. Fernet adds complex depth to the already flavorful concoction, lending unique spiciness. 
Prep Time5 minutes
Course: Drinks
Cuisine: American
Keyword: Amaro, Bourbon, Cherry Bitters, Cocktails, Fernet, Manhattan, Sweet Vermouth
Servings: 1 drink

Ingredients

  • 2 oz bourbon
  • 1/2 oz sweet vermouth
  • 1/2 oz Fernet Branca
  • 2-3 dashes Cherry Bitters

Instructions

  • In an ice filled cocktail shaker, add all ingredients. Stir with a cocktail spoon until completely chilled.
  • Strain in to a lowball glass. Add ice (make it nice!) and enjoy.
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