The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that is believed to have originated in the late 19th century in New York City. The cocktail is typically made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, and is garnished with a cherry.
Today, the Manhattan is considered a classic cocktail and is a staple on many cocktail menus. Its balance of sweet and bitter flavors, along with the complexity of the whiskey, make it a satisfying and sophisticated drink.
The cocktail has inspired many variations and spin-offs, including the Perfect Manhattan (made with equal parts sweet and dry vermouth), the Rob Roy (made with Scotch whisky), and the Brooklyn (made with dry vermouth and maraschino liqueur). Despite these variations, the original Manhattan remains a beloved classic cocktail with a rich history and enduring popularity.
Classic Manhattan
This classic cocktail has been around since the late 1800s and still stands as one of the most well-known drinks in history. Its simple yet pleasing blend of whiskey, vermouth and bitters creates a timeless drink that can be enjoyed by all. To make it, simply combine 2 ounces rye or bourbon whiskey with 1 ounce sweet vermouth, stir them together with a few dashes of Angostura bitters and top off with a maraschino cherry!
If you’re looking for something special to add to your repertoire of cocktails, this classic Manhattan will not disappoint. It is sure to please any crowd – even those who may not normally enjoy an alcoholic beverage!
Perfect Manhattan
The perfect Manhattan is an upgraded version of the classic recipe that adds just enough sweetness without overpowering the flavor profile. This delicious combination requires equal parts dry vermouth and sweet vermouth along with 4 ounces rye or bourbon whiskey, plus some orange bitters for added complexity and depth (about 3 dashes).
Simply mix everything together in a shaker filled with ice until chilled then strain into your glass – voila! An easy way to elevate your favorite cocktail.
The perfect Manhattan is great for any occasion so why not give it a try next time you’re entertaining? Your guests are sure to love its subtle sweetness while they sip on their stylish refreshment.
Manhattan
Ingredients
- Ingredients:
- -2 ounces rye whiskey or Canadian whisky
- -1 ounce sweet vermouth
- -2 dashes Angostura bitters
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
- Pour the rye, vermouth and bitters into the glass and stir until chilled, about 30 seconds.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini or coupe glass, garnish with an orange twist, and serve.
Glassware
A Manhattan is typically served in a chilled martini or coupe glass.
Sometimes they are served wide-mouthed cocktail glass, commonly known as a rocks or old-fashioned glass.
Flavors
The Manhattan cocktail is a classic, beloved by many. The flavor profile of this cocktail is complex and varied, with several distinct notes that come together to create an unforgettable experience.
At the heart of the Manhattan cocktail lies whiskey. Its smoky flavor provides a strong foundation for other ingredients to build upon. Sweet vermouth adds balance and complexity, while Angostura bitters provides hints of spiciness and aromatics.
A dash or two of orange liqueur rounds out the drink with a hint of citrus sweetness, making it smooth and enjoyable to sip on its own or as part of a larger meal.
