Yuletide Manhattan

Description: A festive twist on the classic Manhattan cocktail, the Yuletide Manhattan captures the essence of Christmas by incorporating holiday spices and a hint of fruitiness. The traditional vermouth is infused with warm winter spices while a touch of cranberry provides a subtle sweetness and a vibrant red hue befitting the season. Garnished with a sprig of rosemary and a few fresh cranberries, it's a sophisticated and seasonal delight. Ingredients: - 2 oz Rye whiskey or Bourbon - 1 oz Spiced Cranberry Vermouth (recipe below) - 2 dashes of Angostura bitters - 2 dashes of orange bitters - Fresh cranberries for garnish - A small sprig of rosemary for garnish Spiced Cranberry Vermouth: - 1 bottle of sweet vermouth - 1 cup of fresh cranberries - 1 cinnamon stick - 2 cloves - 1 star anise - Zest of 1 orange Glass: - Chilled coupe glass or a martini glass Directions: 1. Begin by preparing the Spiced Cranberry Vermouth a day ahead: In a saucepan, combine sweet vermouth, fresh cranberries, cinnamon stick, cloves, star anise, and orange zest. Warm over low heat for about 30 minutes, making sure not to boil. Remove from heat and let steep for a few hours or overnight. Strain the mixture and store it in a bottle in the fridge. 2. In a mixing glass filled with ice, combine the rye whiskey or bourbon, the spiced cranberry vermouth, Angostura bitters, and orange bitters. 3. Stir the mixture well until chilled, about 30 seconds. 4. Strain the cocktail into the chilled coupe or martini glass. 5. Garnish with a skewered cranberries and a sprig of rosemary to give the drink a festive and aromatic finish. 6. Serve immediately, inviting your guests to savor the warmth of holiday spices with each sip of this Yuletide Manhattan.