The Boulevardier and the Manhattan are both classic cocktails that have a lot in common, but there are a few key differences that set them apart. Let's dive into the details and explore what makes each of these drinks unique.
1. Base Spirit:
– Manhattan: The Manhattan is traditionally made with whiskey, specifically rye whiskey. However, bourbon is often used as a substitute, giving the drink a slightly sweeter flavor.
– Boulevardier: The Boulevardier switches out the whiskey for a base of bourbon or rye whiskey, just like the Manhattan. However, it takes it a step further by using half of the sweet vermouth and replacing it with bitter Campari, a classic Italian aperitif.
2. Vermouth:
– Manhattan: The Manhattan typically calls for sweet vermouth, which adds a rich and smooth flavor profile to the drink. The vermouth balances out the strong whiskey, creating a well-rounded cocktail.
– Boulevardier: Similar to the Manhattan, the Boulevardier also includes vermouth, but it uses both sweet vermouth and Campari. The addition of Campari adds a bitter and herbal note to the drink, giving it a unique twist.
3. Bitterness:
– Manhattan: While the Manhattan is not typically a bitter cocktail, the addition of bitters is common. A few dashes of aromatic bitters, such as Angostura, can enhance the complexity of the drink without overpowering the other flavors.
– Boulevardier: The Boulevardier, on the other hand, embraces bitterness with the addition of Campari. This bitter liqueur adds a distinctive and slightly bitter taste to the cocktail, creating a more complex and layered flavor profile.
4. Flavor Profile:
– Manhattan: The Manhattan is known for its smooth and sophisticated flavor. The combination of whiskey and sweet vermouth creates a balanced and slightly sweet taste, with hints of caramel, vanilla, and spice from the whiskey.
– Boulevardier: The Boulevardier, with its Campari substitution, brings a unique bitterness to the table. The bitter notes from Campari, combined with the sweetness of the vermouth and the whiskey's rich flavors, result in a drink with a more pronounced and complex taste.
5. Origin:
– Manhattan: The Manhattan has a long and storied history, with its origins dating back to the mid-1800s. It is said to have been created at the Manhattan Club in New York City, hence the name.
– Boulevardier: The Boulevardier is a more recent creation, often attributed to Erskine Gwynne, an American writer who founded a literary magazine in Paris during the 1920s. Gwynne is said to have created the cocktail as a twist on the Negroni, substituting whiskey for the gin.
While both the Manhattan and the Boulevardier share similarities in terms of their base spirits and use of vermouth, the Boulevardier stands out with its addition of Campari, which adds a bitter and herbal element to the drink. The Boulevardier is a bolder and more complex cocktail, while the Manhattan offers a smoother and more traditional flavor profile. Ultimately, the choice between the two depends on your personal preference for sweetness, bitterness, and overall flavor complexity.