Meet the Fanciulli — a bold twist on the classic Perfect Manhattan. Traditionally, a Perfect Manhattan is made with bourbon or rye and a split of sweet and dry vermouth. But the Fanciulli swaps the dry vermouth for Fernet-Branca, adding a rich herbal depth and a touch of intrigue to every sip.
The drink first appeared in print in Old Waldorf Bar Days by Albert Stevens Crockett in 1931. According to Crockett, the cocktail was a signature at the Waldorf Hotel’s famous New York City bar. Its name might have been inspired by the background singers performing Puccini’s La Fanciulla del West (“The Girl of the Golden West”) in town at the time. “Fanciulli” means "children" or “boys” in Italian — perhaps a playful nod from the bartenders.
Interestingly, the drink was already on the scene before the opera’s U.S. premiere in 1910, hinting that its true origin may be another musically inspired mystery.
However it got its name, the Fanciulli remains a sophisticated, spirit-forward choice — perfect for sipping slowly on late-summer evenings.
Serves 1
INGREDIENTS
1 1/2 ounces bourbon or rye
3/4 ounce sweet vermouth
1/4 ounce Fernet Branca
INSTRUCTIONS
Pour the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Fernet Branca into a mixing glass filled with ice. Stir until outside of mixing glass is very cold to touch, about 15 seconds. Strain into a cocktail glass and serve.