Metropolitan
It’s time for something a little upscale with this week’s Friday Cocktail, a Metropolitan!
Technically, this drink is a variation of the Manhattan. Though not as old, this drink does date to 1935, appearing in The Old Waldorf-Astoria Bar Book. As with many drinks, there are varying recipes. In fact, for this particular one, I’ve seen completely different takes on the ingredients, with one version being far more like a variation of a Cosmopolitan. The modern version calls for a black currant flavored vodka, Rose’s Lime Juice, lime juice, and cranberry juice. It’s really more of a Cosmo-Metropolitan. See more about this updated version here. For a true classic Metropolitan, try this recipe…
What you’ll need: Brandy, Sweet Vermouth, Sugar Syrup, and Bitters
Pour 1 1/2 ounces each of brandy and sweet vermouth in a shaker over cracked ice. Add 1/2 tsp of sugar syrup and 3 dashes of bitters. Gently shake and then strain into a cocktail glass.
How I like it: Most versions of this recipe—the classic version—call for 1 1/4 ounces each of brandy and sweet vermouth, but I’ve added the extra amounts in light of today’s typical cocktail glass size. For this cocktail, I used Blackberry Brandy, giving the drink a much sweeter flavor. You could use your favorite brand of brandy or consider a flavored one. If you do use a blackberry or apricot-flavored brandy and find the drink is too sweet, consider replacing the sweet vermouth with dry vermouth. With dry vermouth, this cocktail really mimicks a Manhattan, although with a subtler flavor—especially if you use bourbon in your Manhattans. As for garnishing, this drink with its smooth, rich flavor stands on its own.
As remember, drink responsibly!
The Poisoned Martini 