Cocktail Smoky Maple Manhattan

Description: The Smoky Maple Manhattan is a clever twist on the classic Manhattan, incorporating a complex blend of flavors that will intrigue and delight the palate. The signature element of this cocktail is a bourbon infused with smoked maple and charred oak, achieved through sous-vide infusion. The infusion process adds a layer of smokiness and a touch of sweetness to the drink, enhancing the depth and richness of the original Manhattan. Ingredients: - 2 oz Smoked Maple Bourbon (sous-vide infused) - 1 oz Sweet Vermouth (preferably Carpano Antica Formula) - 2 dashes Angostura Bitters - Smoked maple syrup for rimming (optional) - Maraschino cherry, for garnish - Orange peel twist, for garnish Smoked Maple Bourbon Infusion: - 500 ml Bourbon - 1/4 cup Maple Syrup - Small piece of charred oak (available at specialty stores) - Smoked sea salt, a pinch Sous-Vide Infusion Method: 1. Combine the bourbon, maple syrup, charred oak, and smoked sea salt in a vacuum-sealable bag. 2. Seal the bag and place it in a sous-vide water bath set to 135°F (57°C). 3. Allow the mixture to infuse for 2 hours. 4. Remove the bag from the water bath, let it cool, then strain the infused bourbon through a fine mesh strainer to remove any small particles. Store the infused bourbon in a clean bottle. Cocktail Preparation: 1. (Optional) Rim a chilled coupe glass with smoked maple syrup. 2. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine 2 oz of the Smoked Maple Bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters. 3. Stir gently for about 30 seconds to chill and mix the ingredients thoroughly. 4. Strain the mixture into the prepared coupe glass. 5. Garnish with a Maraschino cherry and an orange peel twist. Glassware: - Chilled Coupe Glass Enjoy the layered complexity and the marriage of sweet, smoky, and oaky notes in this innovative take on a Manhattan!