Proven Perfect

Want to try America’s Best Manhattan, Bardstown-style?

Check out the Proven Perfect bourbon cocktail, created by award-winning bartender Allison Widdecombe.

The Proven Perfect is inspired by a traditional bourbon Manhattan, but in this version, Widdecombe suggests swapping out the traditionally sweet and dry vermouths for a ruby port and bitter orange liqueur. The result is a complex drink that’s drier than your typical Manhattan, but still super balanced and easy to sip.

Ingredients

  • 2 oz. Kentucky bourbon
  • 1/2 oz. Ruby port
  • 1/2 oz. Bittermens Amère Nouvelle (a type of bitter orange liqueur)
  • 1 tsp. Fernet-Branca (a type of bitter herbal liqueur)
  • Lemon peel and maraschino cherry for garnish

Preparation

Combine the bourbon, port, Bittermens Amère Nouvelle and Fernet-Branca in a cocktail shaker with 3-4 ice cubes. Stir just long enough to chill the liquid and mix ingredients thoroughly, then strain into a chilled martini glass. Garnish with a lemon twist and maraschino cherry.

 

Originally written by RootsRated for Visit Bardstown.