Manhattan

The Manhattan is a true classic in the cocktail world, dating back to the late 1800s. Known for its smooth balance of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, it delivers a bold yet refined flavor. Rye whiskey brings a touch of spice, while sweet vermouth softens the edges and adds depth. The bitters tie everything together with subtle aromatic complexity. Finished with a maraschino cherry, this drink is perfect for slow sipping, whether at an upscale bar or your own kitchen counter.

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Tasting Notes

The Manhattan is a timeless cocktail with a rich, spirit-forward profile. Rye whiskey brings a bold, spicy backbone, while sweet vermouth adds a rounded, slightly herbal sweetness that softens the edges. Angostura bitters contribute subtle spice, clove, and aromatic depth, tying the flavors together. Served chilled, the drink has a smooth yet robust character with a warming finish. The maraschino cherry garnish adds a touch of sweetness and a hint of fruit aroma that complements the whiskey. Balanced and confident, the Manhattan offers a refined drinking experience for those who enjoy cocktails where the base spirit takes center stage.

Equipment and Glassware

You’ll need a mixing glass to combine and chill the ingredients without introducing cloudiness from shaking. A bar spoon is essential for stirring, which ensures proper dilution and temperature control. A jigger provides accurate measurements for consistent results. A strainer, typically a Hawthorne or julep style, will help you pour the drink smoothly into the serving glass. The Manhattan is traditionally served in a chilled martini or coupe glass for an elegant presentation, though it can also be poured over a large ice cube in a rocks glass for slower dilution and a more relaxed sipping style.

Pro Tips

• Use high-quality rye for a bolder, spicier Manhattan
• Chill your serving glass in the freezer beforehand
• Avoid over-diluting; 25–30 seconds of stirring is ideal
• Freshly opened sweet vermouth will taste brighter
• Store vermouth in the fridge to maintain freshness
• Try a dash of orange bitters for a citrus note
• Use large ice cubes for slower dilution when serving on the rocks
• Express a lemon peel over the drink for a subtle twist
• Choose premium maraschino cherries for garnish
• Adjust whiskey-to-vermouth ratio for personal tasteermouth to suit your tastes.

When to Serve

The Manhattan is an excellent choice for evening occasions, after-dinner drinks, or formal gatherings. Its strong yet balanced flavor makes it a great slow-sipping cocktail for relaxed conversations or special celebrations. Because it’s served chilled without dilution from constant ice contact (unless on the rocks), it’s well-suited for savoring indoors, especially in cooler months. It works equally well as a signature cocktail at a dinner party or as a refined bar order when you want something classic and confident. The Manhattan’s history and taste profile make it a natural fit for occasions with a touch of timeless charm.

Which Liquor Brands to Choose

Rye Whiskey

• Rittenhouse Rye
• Bulleit Rye
• WhistlePig 10 Year

Sweet Vermouth

• Carpano Antica Formula
• Cocchi Vermouth di Torino
• Dolin Rouge

Bitters

• Angostura Aromatic Bitters