An incredibly good red vermouth which was originally used to make the Martinez (the grandfather of the martini). Each bottle of Antica Formula is individually numbered, and it really does make a great Manhattan, as well as being an excellent digestif.
This is great in Manhattans, but these days I just like to drink it on its own, on the rocks with a slice of orange. A superb mix of sweet and bitter.
This vermouth is good in various whiskey cocktails and really, I think, the gold standard for Manhattans. It seems to work well with almost any bourbon or rye, no matter their flavor profile or proof. The only exception so far has been with extremely woody bourbons, but i have yet to find a vermouth for those.
I bought a case of this from Berry Brothers two years ago. I was making negronis. A lot. The Groucho used it for theirs. This has a sweeter vanilla date taste than its less expensive cousin Punt E Mes. Great with Americano (Negroni without the Gin). And in a hot day with lots of crushed ice.
This is good undoubtedly. It has a fair amount of complexity. The reviews all seem to sing it's praises, so that must be good. And partnered with gins, choose something big and robust as the Antica Formula will probably overpower it anyway. However, in your Manhattan it leaves a slightly bitter aftertaste. Not necessarily a bad thing, but something to be aware of.
Upon a recommendation from a local bartender we bought a bottle. We like it...a bit sweeter than others. Nice just plain, but delicious in a manhattan. Very curious to know the contents. Do I tsste cloves? Billie Jane Maul Margate, NJ
