Let’s celebrate another holiday season with a flavor bursting bourbon based cocktail with cherry and absinthe. This is yet another twist on a Manhattan (or a Sazerac), which is not a bad thing at all considering I really enjoy them. Yes, I am having fun trying all these variations and sharing them with you. Historically, I could not find out much about this cocktail. I can only think this cocktail was so named by some young bartender still harboring resentment at finding out Christmas presents were an ‘Inside Job’ and that Santa Claus does not exist. Or maybe that is just my fanciful yuletide imagination! Either way, let’s celebrate the holidays with this boozy Manhattan/Sazerac riff. After a few, you will not care if it was an Inside Job or not!

Chill a rocks or old fashioned glass. In a mixing glass or shaker bottom, add all ingredients. Stir to chill thoroughly before straining into the chilled glass. Garnish with a cherry and orange peel or a simple orange twist.

Enjoy!