Golden Flight
A rich and spice-laden tequila Manhattan riff where Bénédictine provides a deep honeyed weight to the herbal brightness of Amaro Nonino.
Ingredients
- 1.5 oz Reposado tequila — Añejo also works well
- 0.75 oz Amaro Nonino
- 0.25 oz Bénédictine
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Story
This drink was created specifically to satisfy my request for a pairing that included Bénédictine. We shifted away from the citrusy profile of a Margarita toward a Manhattan-style build so the baroque sweetness of the liqueur could add weight to the tequila/Nonino base rather than getting buried under citrus.
Method
- Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass.
- Add ice and stir until well chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe.
- Garnish with a brandied cherry or an orange peel.
Notes
- Bénédictine is quite dominant; the 0.25 oz measurement is precise to ensure it doesn’t mask the agave.
- Leans heavily into the herbal style — pair with something rich for balance.