in , , , ,

Manhattan

From its inception in the late 1800s, the Manhattan cocktail has exploded in popularity almost overnight, with more than one establishment taking credit for creating this timeless drink recipe. Despite trends in mixology that have come and gone, this classic has remained the drink of choice for both the whiskey aficionado as well as those new to sipping on this gentle spirit. While there have been some subtle adaptations to the original version, this cocktail has managed to withstand the test of time.

Manhattan

The Manhattan is made with a base spirit of bourbon or rye whiskey, mixed with sweet vermouth and a dash of aromatic bitters. Its final touch, a plump maraschino cherry, adds a burst of color and a hint of sweetness, enhancing the overall experience.  

Revered for its refined taste and classic charm, this cocktail has seamlessly transitioned through eras, remaining a beloved choice in both high-end cocktail bars and the comfort of home. Its straightforward preparation and delightful flavor profile make it a go-to option for those in search of a drink that stands the test of time.

From its inception in the late 1800s, the Manhattan cocktail has exploded in popularity almost overnight, with more than one establishment taking credit for creating this timeless drink recipe. Despite trends in mixology that have come and gone, this classic has remained the drink of choice for both the whiskey aficionado as well as those new to sipping on this gentle spirit. While there have been some subtle adaptations to the original version, this cocktail has managed to withstand the test of time.

See also  Rip Van Winkle vs Pappy Van Winkle

History

The Manhattan cocktail is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for over a century. The exact origin of the cocktail is unclear, but it is widely believed to have been invented in the late 19th century in New York City. One popular theory is that the cocktail was first created at the Manhattan Club in New York City. According to this theory, the cocktail was invented in the early 1870s by a bartender named Black who was working at the Manhattan Club on Broadway.

preparing manhattan cocktail

Another theory suggests that the cocktail was created by Dr. Iain Marshall in the early 1880s for a party hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, the mother of Winston Churchill, at the Manhattan Club.

The Manhattan Club happened to have quite a store of rye on hand; so, for practical purposes, rye whiskey was used from the start. Rye whiskey, with its distinctly spicy notes and dry finish, left a favorable impression with imbibers. As bourbon became more widely distributed, people grew to have an appreciation for its smoother, sweeter flavor. Either rye or bourbon can be used, based on your personal preference. Purists will tell you that rye is the way to go, but if you are partial to a drink on the sweeter side, stick with bourbon.

Regardless of its origins, the Manhattan cocktail quickly became popular in bars throughout New York City and beyond. It is often considered to be the first “modern cocktail” due to the inclusion of vermouth, which was a relatively new ingredient at the time. The cocktail is a variation of the old fashioned cocktail, which is made with whiskey, bitters, and sugar.

See also  8 Skrewball Peanut Butter Whiskey Mixers

How to Make It

Manhattan

Manhattan

Yield: 1
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes

Making a Manhattan cocktail is a simple process that requires a few key ingredients and some basic equipment. The classic recipe calls for rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, which are stirred together and served over ice with a maraschino cherry garnish.

Here's how to make it:

Ingredients

  • 2 ounces of rye whiskey
  • 1 ounce of sweet vermouth
  • 2-4 dashes of Angostura bitters

Instructions

  1. Chill a Nick & Nora glass in the freezer or fill it with ice.
  2. In a mixing glass filled with ice, add 2 ounces of rye whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
  3. Stir the ingredients with a bar spoon for about 20 seconds, or until the drink is chilled and well-mixed.
  4. Strain the cocktail into the chilled glass.
  5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry or a twist of lemon peel, if desired.

Did you make this recipe?

Be sure to follow @mybartender on Pinterest and tag #mybartender You can also post a photo to our facebook page

Choosing Your Whiskey

If you prefer a different type of whiskey, you can substitute bourbon, Tennessee whiskey, or even Scotch whisky for the rye. Rye is a spicier whiskey, so if you prefer a sweeter cocktail, bourbon may be the better choice.

The vermouth ratio can also be adjusted to your taste; a perfect Manhattan uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth, while a dry Manhattan uses only dry vermouth.

Variations

The Manhattan cocktail is a classic drink that has been around for over a century. However, there are many variations to this drink that can add a new twist to the classic recipe. Here are some of the most popular variations that you can experiment with:

See also  Bourbon Milk Punch

Rob Roy

This variation of the Manhattan uses Scotch whiskey instead of rye or bourbon. The result is a smokier and peatier flavor profile that is perfect for Scotch lovers.

Dry Manhattan

If you find the classic Manhattan too sweet, try the Dry Manhattan. This version uses dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth, resulting in a drier and spicier cocktail.

Metropolitan

The Metropolitan is a variation of the Manhattan that uses brandied cherry and orange liqueur instead of bitters. The result is a sweeter and fruitier cocktail that is perfect for those who prefer a less spicy drink.

Cuban Manhattan

This variation of the Manhattan uses dark rum instead of whiskey and sweet red vermouth. The result is a sweeter and more tropical version of the classic Manhattan.

Brooklyn

The Brooklyn is a variation of the Manhattan that uses maraschino liqueur and dry vermouth instead of sweet vermouth. The result is a spicier and more complex cocktail that is perfect for those who want to experiment with different flavors.

Black Manhattan

The Black Manhattan is a variation of the Manhattan that uses Averna instead of sweet vermouth and adds a dash of absinthe. The result is a spicier and more bitter cocktail that is perfect for those who want to try something new.

Perfect Manhattan

A Perfect Manhattan is a variation of the classic Manhattan cocktail. It is made by using equal parts sweet and dry vermouth instead of just sweet vermouth. The rest of the ingredients remain the same: rye whiskey or bourbon and bitters.

Reverse Manhattan

For a Reverse Manhattan, switch the proportions of rye whiskey and vermouth, so that the cocktail is made with more vermouth than whiskey. This creates a lower alcohol cocktail and a different flavor that some prefer.

Manhattan
Please drink responsibly, be fully accountable with your alcohol consumption, and show others respect.

Leave a Reply

Avatar

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

GIPHY App Key not set. Please check settings

red apples and apple whiskey on a glass on the table

9 Popular Apple Whiskeys to Try

barman pouring a sipping whiskey in front of glasses and bottles

13 Sipping Whiskeys to Enjoy Neat or On the Rocks