spiced manhattan cocktail

A variation on the classic using Cognac vs bourbon. With cinnamon, cloves, cayenne and a sprinkle of fresh-grated nutmeg.

Infused Vermouth:
2 cups sweet vermouth
1 tsp allspice
2 cinnamon sticks
2 whole cloves
1 dash cayenne pepper
1 dash sea salt

Manhattan Cocktail:
2.5 oz Hennessy cognac
.75 oz infused vermouth
Dash of angostura bitters
Twist of orange
Sprinkle of fresh nutmeg

1. Infusing vermouth:
Heat the vermouth to just before boiling and then add all dry ingredients. Turn off heat, cover with a lid and let sit steeping for several hours. Pour through sifter into empty container.

2. For Manhattan Cocktail:
Combine in shaker Hennessy, vermouth and bitter. Add ice and shake. Pour into martini glass. Garnish with a twist of orange and grate fresh nutmeg over the top.

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Recipe from A Spicy Perspective