A more modern classic, the Revolver originates in San Francisco in the early 2000’s. While this is technically a Manhattan variant, you’d be forgiven for confusing the 3 ingredient template with an old fashioned. Instead, the vermouth is replaced by rich, luxurious coffee liqueur. The result is a rich and simple to execute twist on the Manhattan.
Revolver
The Revolver is a rich and mildly spicy cocktail. The bourbon works a solid base providing notes of the oak and grains, while the coffee is adding richness. As Mr. Black is not a particularly sweet liqueur, the coffee shines here, giving a more black coffee and nuttiness than sweetness. Thanks to the oils in the coffee and the sugar, most of this comes across as weight in the drink. The orange perks the whole thing up, and gives it a charred brightness that ties it all together.
Drink Notes & Recommendations
The Revolver is one of those drinks that you’re going to find different interpretations of as you trawl back through the annals of cocktail history. They’re also not likely to look a lot like this. That said, this drink is an interesting Manhattan / Old Fashioned adjacent drink that for whatever reason is served up. It’s the sort of drink that could probably take an ice cube if you so choose, and even take more sugar if you added that cube. A final note, this drink was originally constructed with Bulleit Rye to indulge in that spicy kick (something common in drinks from the early / mid 2000s). You can use either Bourbon or Rye here.
- Bourbon – This is one of those drinks where the richness of the coffee liqueur means that the bourbon is working more as a foundation. You can always go as fancy as you want, but choosing something that won’t break the bank probably won’t be a bad decision, but stick to our recommended Bourbons. Even Jim Beam Bonded worked well here – compared to say Ezra Brooks 99 – which was not enjoyable.
- Coffee Liqueur – We used Mr. Black here, but you could use Kahlua or another coffee liqueur. Adjust sweetness with simple syrup for your preference.
- Orange Bitters – Regan’s* adds a lot here with some delicious additional notes of cardamom and spice. You could also use Fee Bros Orange* or Angostura orange bitters if your options are limited. We also tried a mix of Regan’s and Fee’s, which worked out even better.
- Flamed Orange Peel – The easiest way is to cut an inch coin using a paring knife. You’ll want this to be slightly thicker than a normal twist so you have something to hold and pinch. Pinch it from the pithy side over a lit match toward the drink at a 45 degree angle. Discard the peel after.
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