As winter begins to fade, Milwaukeeans look forward to the first hints of spring. What better way to embrace the seasonal shift than with a locally inspired cocktail? The Cream City Cherry Manhattan blends Milwaukee’s rich brewing and distilling heritage with the fresh, bright flavors of cherry, offering the perfect balance of warmth and anticipation for spring.
A Milwaukee Take on a Timeless Classic
The Manhattan is a staple in the cocktail world, beloved for its smooth, rich taste. Traditionally made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, it’s a go-to for those who appreciate a well-crafted drink. Our Cream City Cherry Manhattan pays homage to this classic while infusing it with local character and a nod to Wisconsin’s love for cherries.
Why Cherry and Whiskey?
Wisconsin has a deep connection to cherries, thanks to the orchards of Door County. The Cream City Cherry Manhattan takes advantage of that tradition, blending a premium Milwaukee-distilled whiskey with cherry liqueur and sweet vermouth for a drink that’s both comforting and refreshing. This cocktail is the perfect sip to enjoy as you wait for the first blooms of spring.
Spotlight on Milwaukee’s Finest Whiskey
We feature a top-tier Milwaukee-distilled whiskey, crafted with locally sourced grains for a smooth, rich finish. Its notes of caramel, spice, and oak provide the perfect foundation for the cherry liqueur’s fruity sweetness, creating a complex and inviting flavor profile.
How to Make the Cream City Cherry Manhattan
Ingredients (Serves 1):
- 2 oz Milwaukee-distilled whiskey
- ½ oz Door County cherry liqueur
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- Dash of aromatic bitters
- Ice
- Luxardo cherry and orange twist for topping
Instructions:
- In a mixing glass, combine whiskey, cherry liqueur, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Fill with ice and stir until well chilled (about 30 seconds).
- Strain into a chilled coupe or martini glass.
- Top with a Luxardo cherry and an orange twist.
- Sip and enjoy the rich blend of flavors that celebrate Milwaukee’s cocktail culture.
The Importance of Seasonal Ingredients
Crafting cocktails with seasonal ingredients ensures the freshest, most flavorful experience. Even though fresh cherries aren’t in season in February, cherry liqueur allows us to capture that bright, fruity essence. This thoughtful approach to ingredients enhances the quality of your cocktails, making them more enjoyable and memorable.
Hosting an Event? Let Us Take Care of the Drinks!
If you’re planning a February gathering, the Cream City Cherry Manhattan makes a perfect signature cocktail. At Bartender Milwaukee, we specialize in creating seasonally inspired craft cocktails to elevate any event.
Why Choose Bartender Milwaukee?
- Expert mixologists who bring creativity and precision to every drink
- Custom cocktail menus tailored to your event’s theme and season
- Professional service that ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for you and your guests
Whether you’re hosting a wedding, corporate function, or private party, we’ll craft an unforgettable bar experience.
Book Your Bartender Today!
Love the sound of this cocktail but don’t want to manage the bar yourself? Let us handle everything! Contact us today to book one of our professional bartenders and create a one-of-a-kind cocktail experience for your event.
