SPICED WINTER MANHATTAN

Chill all the liquid ingredients, then pour them into the bottle.

Do not exceed the maximum fill level of 720 ml.

Insert an iSi Soda Charger into the rod and screw it onto the bottle until you hear a hiss.

Leave the rod on the bottle until the foam has settled and the hissing stops.

Enjoy over ice.

The Spiced Winter Manhattan combines bold rye whiskey with red vermouth, cinnamon syrup and cherry liqueur. Lemon juice adds a fresh acidity, while the fine bubbles make the cocktail feel lighter. Pair it with salty bites and savoury dishes that complement its spicy, fruity notes.

Salty bites for an aperitif
Toasted almonds, olives or crisp grissini balance the gentle sweetness of cinnamon and cherry. Crostini with herb cream cheese or thinly sliced cured ham are also a good match. Their salty flavours complement the bold whiskey without overpowering the delicate spices.

Flavourful cheeses
A small cheese selection could include mature Gruyère, mountain cheese or a flavourful hard cheese. Their bold flavours stand up well to the rye whiskey. Mild Brie or creamy goat’s cheese offers a softer contrast. Serve with unsweetened crackers or fresh bread.

Savoury accompaniments
Thinly sliced roast beef, cured meat or smoked duck breast are well suited to a winter aperitif. The meat’s salty flavour works well with the warming notes of cinnamon and cherry. Small mushroom or onion tarts are another good option. Season them lightly so the cocktail remains the focus.

Roasted vegetables and mushrooms
Sautéed mushrooms, roasted beetroot or squash bring earthy, slightly sweet flavours to the table. These complement the drink’s wintry spices. A little thyme or black pepper is all you need for seasoning. A tangy touch, such as a splash of lemon juice, adds extra freshness.

For dessert with chocolate and cherry
To finish, serve dark chocolate, almond biscuits or a dessert with sour cherries. The chocolate’s bitterness contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the cherry liqueur and cinnamon syrup. Choose a dessert that isn’t too sweet so the cocktail’s delicate acidity can come through.

Serve well chilled
Serve the Spiced Winter Manhattan well chilled over ice. A lemon twist or a cherry makes a suitable garnish and echoes the cocktail’s flavours. A few carefully chosen bites are all you need for an aperitif, allowing its spicy and fruity notes to shine.

Recipe and image: isi.com