Tonight’s cocktail is an Old Fashioned/Manhattan variation I just had to try. This recipe swaps out Benedictine for the simple syrup/sweet vermouth to provide floral and herbal flavors with the spicy sweet rye whiskey. Served simply in a chilled rocks glass, this flavorful concoction is warm and soothing – perfect for a Friday happy hour relaxation. The history of this cocktail is quite brief, the best reference I found was that is was first documented in David Embury’s 1948 tome, The Fine Art of Mixing Drinks. I like this cocktail a lot. The Benedictine adds a wonderfully different aspect to the classics it is based on, something that feels special when you sip it. By all means, try this one… it is a great change-up for the Old Fashioned/Manhattan drinker and I bet it will make your holidays (or any day) a bit more exciting!

Chill a rocks glass. In a mixing glass, add ice and all ingredients. Stir to thoroughly chill before straining into the chilled glass.

Enjoy!