On the heels of Y2K (whatever that was), the cocktail came back into fashion in cities like New York, London, San Francisco and LA. Pioneering bartenders began reintroducing drinks to their patrons made the traditional way with fresh juices, simple syrup, and bitters. If a drink like the Manhattan traditionally called for Rye they returned to the original favored profile – no more sugary sweet Cosmos or Long Island Iced Teas.

Now don’t get us wrong, we love traditional drinks more than anyone. But we also believe in doing things a little…differently. Traditional Manhattans call for Rye, Vermouth, and Bitters, but we’ve spiced things up for the holiday season. Allspice and honey will go a long way keeping you strong when the in-laws are in town.

Against the Grain

2 oz WhistlePig Straight Rye Whiskey
1 oz Dry Vermouth
1/2 oz Allspice Dram
1/3 oz Honey Syrup (distilled with equal parts water to honey)
4 dashes Abbots Aged Bitters