The Spanish MANHATTAN

MUSHROOM-GRUYÈRE CIGARS

(recipe on page 132)

We opted here for a variation on a Manhattan. We started with 100-percent rye, such as Jack Daniels (LCBO 526079, $40.05) or Lot No. 40 (LCBO 382861, $39.95), for a bold, peppery palate that will cut the richness of the hors d’oeuvre. We then swapped out sweet vermouth for sherry, which lends a rich and nutty taste.

In a cocktail shaker filled with ice, add 1 oz 100-percent rye, 1 oz amontillado sherry, a thumb-sized orange peel and 2 dashes of orange bitters. Stir until well chilled and strain into a cocktail glass. Garnish with a lemon twist.

Makes 1 cocktail