Preakness whisky cocktail in a coupe with lemon zest

Cocktail

Preakness

How to make a Preakness - the elegant whisky cocktail with sweet vermouth, Benedictine and Angostura. A spicy Manhattan relative.

5 minPrep time
mediumDifficulty
CoupeGlass
1Serving(s)

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The Preakness is an elegant whisky cocktail from the golden era of the American bar, a close relative of the Manhattan. A splash of Benedictine gives the interplay of bourbon and sweet vermouth a fine herbal sweetness. A full-bodied, spicy drink for lovers of spirit-forward classics.

Instructions

  1. Add bourbon, sweet vermouth, Benedictine and Angostura to a mixing glass with ice cubes.
  2. Stir cold for about 20 seconds.
  3. Strain into a pre-chilled coupe.
  4. Express a lemon zest over the glass and drop it in.

Garnish: Lemon zest

Pro tip: Dose the Benedictine sparingly - it brings a fine herbal sweetness but can quickly dominate the drink.

Frequently asked questions

How does the Preakness taste?

It is spicy and full-bodied like a Manhattan, but a little more herbal and sweet thanks to the Benedictine.

Where does the name Preakness come from?

The cocktail is named after the Preakness Stakes, a traditional horse race in the USA.

Can I use rye instead of bourbon?

Yes, rye whiskey makes the drink drier and spicier, both work excellently.

Ingredients

  • Bourbon whiskey5 cl
  • Sweet vermouth (Vermouth Rosso)2 cl
  • Benedictine (herbal liqueur)1 cl
  • Angostura bitters1 dash
  • Lemon zest1 piece
  • Ice cubes for stirringas needed