When the groundhog has spied his shadow out east (and Stumptown Fil has concurred here in the west), it feels like the time for some late winter solace of the cocktail variety. The Nordic Spring (AKA Aquavit Manhattan) is a riff on the classic Manhattan which substitutes Norwegian aquavit for the whiskey and a couple drops of cardamom bitters for the Angostura. Spring may still be a long way off, but this drink will warm your spirits in the meantime.
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Ingredients for the Nordic Spring (AKA Aquavit Manhattan)
- aquavit (choose an aged variety)
- sweet vermouth
- cardamom bitters
- maraschino cherry (to garish)
See recipe card for quantities.
Instructions for the Nordic Spring (AKA Aquavit Manhattan)
Place some ice in a cocktail shaker and add the aquavit, sweet vermouth, and cardamom bitters.
Leisurely stir until exceptionally cold. (You have the time...spring is still a long way off.) Do not be tempted to shake this drink.
Strain into a coupe glass.
Add the maraschino cherry and serve.
Ingredient Variations
- Aquavit - As long as you choose a cask or barrel aged variety, any brand of aquavit should work in this cocktail.
- Sweet Vermouth - My preference is Carpano Antica Formula or Dolin Vermouth Rouge.
- Bitters - Angostura or aromatic bitters work well here in place of the cardamom.
- Maraschino Cherries - Luxardo cherries are my maraschino of choice.
📖 Recipe
Nordic Spring (AKA Aquavit Manhattan)
Ingredients
- 2 ounces aquavit Linie
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth Carpano Antica Formula
- few drops cardamom bitters
- 1 maraschino cherry
Instructions
- Place some ice in a cocktail shaker.
- Add the aquavit, sweet vermouth, and cardamom bitters.
- Stir very well until the mixture is exceptionally cold. Do not be tempted to shake this cocktail.
- Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with the maraschino cherry.
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