What ingredient differentiates a Southern Comfort Manhattan from a traditional Manhattan?

The ingredient that distinguishes a Southern Comfort Manhattan from a traditional Manhattan is the addition of Southern Comfort, often abbreviated as SOCO. In a traditional Manhattan, the primary ingredients are rye whiskey or bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters, creating a classic combination of flavors.

In the Southern Comfort Manhattan, the whiskey is replaced with Southern Comfort, a fruit-flavored whiskey liqueur that adds a distinct sweetness and fruity undertone to the cocktail. This change significantly alters the overall flavor profile, making it unique compared to the traditional version. The character of Southern Comfort brings a level of complexity that is different from the robust and spicy notes typical of rye whiskey, showcasing how the choice of spirit can define a cocktail.

While the other ingredients, such as sweet vermouth, are common to both cocktails, it’s the inclusion of Southern Comfort that is the key differentiating factor in this variation.