The Brooklyn

In the world of classic cocktails, certain drinks grab the spotlight. Think the Manhattan, Martini, or Old Fashioned, while others quietly wait in the wings, cherished by bartenders but still unfamiliar to many home mixologists. The Brooklyn cocktail is one of those hidden gems. Elegant, aromatic, and beautifully balanced, it offers a refreshing alternative to its more famous Manhattan sibling while capturing the same old-school charm and sophistication.

The Brooklyn cocktail was first documented in the early 20th century, during the golden age of American mixology. Created as part of a series of borough-specific Manhattan variations, each swapping in different bitters or modifiers, the Brooklyn stands out for its dry, crisp character and subtle complexity. While the Manhattan leans sweet and rich, the Brooklyn opts for brightness and herbal nuance, thanks largely to its signature ingredients: dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and Amer Picon (or a modern substitute).

What makes the Brooklyn so fascinating is how it layers flavors without overwhelming the palate. Rye whiskey forms the backbone, offering spice, warmth, and depth. Dry vermouth softens that structure with a light, herbal note. Maraschino liqueur then adds a whisper of cherry sweetness—not syrupy, but refined and delicate. Finally, the Amer Picon (or a bittersweet orange amaro) brings everything into focus, adding citrus, bitterness, and backbone. The result is a cocktail that’s crisp yet comforting, complex yet incredibly drinkable.

For home bartenders, the Brooklyn is an excellent “bridge cocktail”—one that expands your palate beyond the basics without requiring obscure techniques or a dozen ingredients. If you enjoy Manhattans but want something lighter, brighter, and more aromatic, this is the ideal next step. It also showcases the versatility of rye whiskey, proving that its bold character can shine in both robust and more restrained recipes.

But perhaps what makes the Brooklyn cocktail most appealing is its sense of place. It carries with it the spirit of early 1900s New York—an era of bustling bars, inventive bartenders, and a growing cocktail culture that still influences today’s drinking landscape. To mix a Brooklyn is to connect with that history, one chilled coupe at a time. Now that you know its story, it’s time to make one yourself. With just a few ingredients and a couple minutes of preparation, you can bring this once-forgotten classic into your modern home bar rotation.

• 2 oz rye whiskey

• 1 oz dry vermouth

• ¼ oz maraschino liqueur

• ¼ oz Amer Picon (or substitute with a bittersweet orange amaro such as Ramazzotti, CioCiaro, or Bigallet China-China)

• Lemon twist, for garnish

Add the rye, dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and Amer Picon (or substitute) to a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until well-chilled, about 20–25 seconds. Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass. Express a lemon twist over the top, then use it as garnish.

Bright, balanced, and historically rich, the Brooklyn cocktail deserves a spot in every home bartender’s lineup. Give it a try—you may just discover your new favorite classic.