Looking for a new cocktail to try out this weekend? Want to wind down with a fresh new drink? We’ve got you covered. Here’s what you should drink this weekend.
With the cooler weather and crisp chill of autumn, there are few better choices of spirits in your fall cocktails than rye whiskey. The spicy tang and soothing warmth of Rye makes it a versatile, cozy option in many mixed drinks. For this weekend, we’re making a variation on the classic Manhattan cocktail called The Slope created by Julie Reiner of Brooklyn’s Clover Club. The use of a fruit liqueur adds a lovely twist to the and allows you to mix in some fall appropriate flavors.
The Slope calls for apricot liqueur in particular but we’d recommend subbing in any of your favorite liqueurs and getting creative with the final product. Spiced pear liqueur, a berry liqueur, or a fortified cider would all be welcome additions.
The Slope Ingredients
Rye Whiskey – As with the original Manhattan recipe, The Slope calls for rye whiskey specifically. We’d suggest using any rye that you particularly enjoy. WhistlePig PiggyBack Rye or Rittenhouse Rye are both good options. I’ll be using High West Double Rye Whiskey.
Punt e Mes – Any sweet red vermouth will suffice but Punt e Mes is the booze of choice in this cocktail. If you’re looking for alternatives, we’d recommend Martini & Rossi or Cocchi.
Apricot Liqueur – Rothman & Winter Orchard Apricot Liqueur is recommended option for The Slope and for good reason. There’s lovely aromatics and it adds a nice richness to this drink. Alternatively, we’d suggest using St. George Spiced Pear Liqueur or a fortified cider like these options from New Jersey’s Ironbound Farm.
Angostura Bitters – You’ll only need a dash of Angostura for this recipe but we’d assume you already have it stocked on your bar cart!
The Slope Recipe
- Combine 2.5 oz of rye, .75 oz of Punt e Mes, .25 oz of Apricot Liqueur, and a dash of Angostura Bitters in a mixing glass.
- Add ice and stir until chilled, about fifteen seconds.
- Strain into a cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a cocktail cherry.
- Enjoy.
