Scotch is a complex spirit to mix into a cocktail. Try this delightfully spirited cocktail to experience what happens when American bourbon and Scotch whisky join forces.

Every fall, sometime between the last breath of summer and the first week of October, my beverage palate shifts from light and bubbly to dark and spirituous. I revisit my favorite whiskey hits like the Manhattan and the Rob Roy (Scotch, sweet vermouth, bitters) and tailor the recipes with autumnal inspiration.

I’d like to introduce this year’s favorite, The Plaid Manhattan, a spicy and spirited cocktail with just a hint of fruit. Instead of choosing between two of my favorite sweater-weather spirits, bourbon and Scotch, I incorporate them both into one delightful Highland hybrid.

Just a hint of Crème de Cassis (black currant liqueur) complements the spicy notes of bourbon and mellows the fiery mineral tones of Scotch with just enough fruit for bounce. Jammy notes resound with the addition of Punt e Mes Sweet Vermouth, a tangy and bittersweet vermouth from Piedmont. Scrappy’s Cardamom Bitters perk warming spicy notes, offering a fleeting memory of fresh berry pie on the palate fully realized with a final bite of delectable Luxardo cherry.

Pleased to meet you, Plaid Manhattan, you’re perfect as you are. Not too sweet, not too bitter, just how I like it.