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.

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.

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.

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.

How to Make It

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:

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.