Rye 'n' Tawny

Manhattan & Riffs • December 16, 2025

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A photo of the Rye 'n' Tawny cocktail containing Willett Family Estate Bottled 4 Year Rye, Noilly Prat Dry Vermouth, Graham's 10 Year Old Aged Tawny Port, Angostura Orange Bitters in a Martini.

Curiada Ingredients

2.00 fl oz Willett Family Estate Bottled 4 Year Rye or alternative
1.00 fl oz Noilly Prat Dry Vermouth or alternative
1.00 fl oz Graham's 10 Year Old Aged Tawny Port or alternative
1.00 dash Angostura Orange Bitters or alternative

Directions

Chill martini glass
Add all ingredients to mixing glass
Add ice to mixing glass
Stir well
Strain into chilled martini glass
Express orange zest twist over drink and drop into glass

Cocktail Description

The Rye 'n' Tawny blends century-old tradition with bold innovation, marrying the spicy backbone of bonded rye with the nutty complexity of aged port.

This sophisticated cocktail offers a remarkable depth of flavor, opening with the whiskey's peppery punch before unveiling layers of dried fruit, vanilla, and caramelized nuts from the 20-year tawny port. The dry vermouth acts as a perfect bridge between these robust elements, while orange bitters add a bright, aromatic lift. Surprisingly approachable despite its complex ingredient list, this cocktail can be prepared in under five minutes by anyone comfortable with basic stirring techniques. It shines as an after-dinner sipper on cool autumn evenings but works equally well as a contemplative nightcap year-round. The Rye 'n' Tawny pairs beautifully with desserts featuring dark chocolate, dried fruits, or toasted nuts – think chocolate-dipped figs or pecan tarts – but also stands up nicely to aged cheeses on a well-curated board.