I was recently provided a sample of Manhattan Moonshine, an un-aged white whiskey. I’ve purchased a few bottles of white whiskey in the past. Or every so often someone will say to me “hey, you’ve got to try this” and they’ll hand me an unmarked mason jar full of moonshine from their hometown. Eagerly, I'd take a swill. There’s something about an illicit beverage in a glass jar that looks so appealing. Or is it just me?

Anyway, most times I take a sip and a ball of fire will roll pass my tongue to ignite my chest, causing me to gasp and cough from the heat. If I'm lucky, I’m greeted with the smooth pleasant sweet earthiness that I've come to love with white whiskey. I thought I knew what un-aged whiskey was and then I met Manhattan Moonshine.

I love whisk(e)y, with or without the “e”. I love its heartiness. The depth and flavors that immediately transport you to old Kentucky or Islay, Scotland. It’s a spirit with undeniable character and strength. You either love whiskey or hate it, either way it couldn’t care less and you respect that about whiskey.

I also love what a difference the barrel makes with aged whiskey. The barrel leaves an imprint on the spirit. It provides subtle clues as to where this whiskey has been. A sherry barrel will soften a strong whiskey giving it a delightful sweetness. A bourbon barrel leaves behind just the right amount of smoke, thanks to its charred interior. I thought I’d miss those barrel flavors with this un-aged whiskey, but I was wrong. Manhattan Moonshine doesn’t need it.

In a corn saturated world, Manhattan Moonshine is made from a blend of New York grains. On first sip I was met with the all too familiar spice of rye. Being a Maryland girl attune to our rye roots, this put a smile on my face. And then there’s that nutty sweetness provided by the oats. Sip after sip, I was surprised at how flavorful this white whiskey was and so easy to drink. Before I knew it I had already drank an ounce worth and was coming back for more.

Yet there was something missing.

If every whiskey speaks to you, then Manhattan Moonshine is screaming to be apart of a cocktail. And of course I’m willing to oblige. I decided to take advantage of this whiskey’s versatility and create a tea infusion.

Black Tea Punch

• 1.5 oz. Manhattan Moonshine infused with Black Tea
• .75 oz. Cranberry Juice
• .5 oz. Simple Syrup
• .5 oz. Orange Juice
• .5 oz. Lemon Juice

1. Shake with ice.
2. Pour contents into a double old fashion or Collins glass.
3. Top with club soda.

I’m really happy I got the chance to try Manhattan Moonshine. It’s made for a great addition to the home bar. It sits there along side some of my favorite whiskeys, unapologetic of its clear color. I’d expect nothing less from a Yankee.

Cheers,

Nikki