Shaker Heights

This cocktail must be named for the classy neighborhood on Cleveland's east side. It swings like a Roaring Twenties Manhattan with a higher proportion of vermouth to the whiskey (rye of course.) I'm using North Fork rye from Glacier Distilling Company and Vitae Old Tom gin for that classic 20s flavor profile.

Tucked in there are also sweet vermouth, a rich one by Cocchi and a cheap brandy, both in equal parts. You get a lot of barrel and oaky vanilla in this drink, and that comes mostly from the brandy and the richness of the vermouth if you make it like this. But Old Tom gin also keeps it from being overly spicy and more on the rich sipping side.

• 1/2 oz. rye (North Fork used)
• 1/2 oz. gin (Vitae Old Tom used)
• 1/2 oz. sweet vermouth (Cocchi dopo teatro used)
• 1/2 oz. brandy (E&J American brandy used)

Combine all ingredients in a mixing glass with ice. Stir and strain into a chilled cocktail glass.