In honor and remembrance of the 120th anniversary of the disastrous USS Maine incident on February 15th, 1898, tonight’s cocktail is also reminder that ‘fake news’ is nothing new (regardless of your views and beliefs). In the aftermath of this terrible incident in which 260 men died, two high powered publishers used their influence to inflame the situation and foster an atmosphere that resulted in the Spanish-American War. This cocktail is another variation on the venerable Manhattan. Originally documented in 1939 in Charles H. Baker, Jr’s The Gentlemen’s Companion after a raucous trip to Havana in 1933 during Batista’s coup, it is reported Baker served this cocktail with the advice “Treat this one with the respect it deserves, gentlemen”. I see this cocktail as a bit daring – rye whiskey paired with Cherry Heering, sweet vermouth and a hint of absinthe – that is a whole lot going on! And definitely worthy of respect – both for the historical context and this cocktail’s potency. Let’s Remember the Maine and drink up, ladies and gentlemen!

Chill a cocktail glass. In a mixing glass, add the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, absinthe, and Cherry Heering. Add ice and stir to chill thoroughly before straining into the prepared cocktail glass. Garnish with a brandied cherry.

Enjoy!