Last week I was fortunate to be a part of Woodford Reserve and Esquire magazine’s Manhattan Experience competition. I was on a panel of judges who had to determine the best of the best Manhattans in Louisville … choosing a bartender who will go on to the final competition in New York. Here is the winner and her recipe:

Ramsey’s Manhattan
Bartender: Karla Ramsey (of Baxter’s 942)

2 oz Woodford Reserve
1 oz apple brandy
1 oz sweet vermouth
2 splashes of bitters

Shake ingredients until cold. Strain into a martini glass and garnish with a red apple slice.