Randi Densford is beverage director at Barn8 Farm Restaurant + Bourbon Bar in Goshen, KY.
Right now I am drinking mostly spirit-forward cocktails because of the colder weather. At Barn8, we have a riff on a classic Manhattan called the “Hog Tied” that I’m excited about.
This Manhattan features Carpano Antica vermouth, Bonal (an aperitif infused with herbs like gentian and chinchona bark) and the bitter Italian liqueur Averna. Together these add spice complexities and a molasses cookie finish to the cocktail.

Hog Tied
2 oz. Woodford Reserve (we use a hand-picked Barn8 Private Barrel Selection)
¾ oz. Carpano Antica
½ oz. Bonal Gentiane-Quina
¼ oz. Amaro Averna
4 dashes Angostura bitters
Build in a Yarai mixing glass, stir to chill and dilute. Serve up in a chilled coupe glass. Garnish with a lemon peel and Luxardo cherry.