Preakness
A Manhattan variation enriched with Bénédictine and named for the Preakness Stakes.
The Preakness builds on rye, sweet vermouth, and bitters, then adds Bénédictine for herbal sweetness and spice. Compared with a standard Manhattan, it is richer and slightly softer on the finish while remaining stirred and spirit-forward. Served up, it reads as a racing-season Manhattan cousin rather than a separate template. The name references the Preakness Stakes, the second leg of the Triple Crown.
Ingredients
- • 2 oz rye whiskey
- • 1 oz sweet vermouth
- • 0.5 oz Bénédictine
- • 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Did you know?
“The Preakness appears in mid-twentieth-century American cocktail lists as a Manhattan-style drink named for the Preakness Stakes.”
Bartender's Note
If the drink tastes candy-sweet, reduce Bénédictine before cutting vermouth. A spicy rye keeps the profile from becoming soft.
Missing a bottle? See smart swaps in Learn.
How to make the Preakness
- 1Add rye, sweet vermouth, Bénédictine, and Angostura to a mixing glass with ice
- 2Stir until well chilled
- 3Strain into a chilled coupe
- 4Garnish with a lemon twist
