Bensonhurst

A modern classic from NYC's cocktail renaissance, the Bensonhurst is a sophisticated, rye-forward riff on the Brooklyn, balancing spicy whiskey with dry vermouth, maraschino liqueur, and the bitter complexity of Cynar.

30%

ABV

217

Calories

Coupe

Glass

Flavor Profile

spirit-forward•bitter•herbal•complex•spicy•aromatic

Flavor Journey

Sweet

Sour

Bitter

Strong

Ingredients

Each component plays a crucial role.

2 oz

1 oz

2 tsp

1 tsp

Method

Technique transforms ingredients into something extraordinary.

Chill a coupe or Nick & Nora glass.

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass.

Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir until well-chilled, about 20-30 seconds.

Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.

Glassware

Coupe

Served up in a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.

Garnish

Master's Tips

Professional insights to elevate your craft

Use a high-quality, 100-proof rye whiskey like Rittenhouse to ensure the spirit's spicy character stands up to the other ingredients.

This is a spirit-forward cocktail; always stir with large, clear ice to achieve perfect chill and dilution without over-aerating.

Be precise with the maraschino and Cynar measurements, as even a small over-pour can unbalance the drink's complex profile.

Always serve in a pre-chilled glass to maintain its ideal cold temperature.

Variations & Riffs

Classic cocktails inspire countless variations. Here are some popular riffs on the Bensonhurst.

Other Variations

Red Hook

Major Variation

A popular variation that substitutes the dry vermouth with the bitter Italian vermouth Punt e Mes and omits the Cynar.

Changes

Greenpoint

Major Variation

Another Milk & Honey creation that adds Yellow Chartreuse for an extra layer of herbal complexity, replacing the Cynar.

Changes

Bitter-Forward Bensonhurst

Minor Tweak

A slight ratio adjustment to emphasize the bitter Cynar notes.

Changes

Cynar:1 tsp → 1.5 tsp

History & Heritage

Created in 2006 by Chad Solomon at New York's legendary Milk & Honey, the Bensonhurst is a modern classic named after the Brooklyn neighborhood. It's a direct descendant of the Brooklyn cocktail, showcasing the creative spirit of the craft cocktail revival by introducing the Italian amaro Cynar to the classic Manhattan template.