The Manhattan is a traditional, elegant cocktail that originated in the late 1800s and consists of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Perfect for festive evenings or get-togethers, it’s a cinch to prepare and never boring. This guide will tell you how to make the perfect Manhattan, as well as tips, serving suggestions, and variations for feeding your palate.

Table of Contents

How to Make Homemade Manhattan Drink

To prepare a Manhattan, chill a cocktail glass, combine whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass with ice, then stir until chilled. Strain into the glass, and garnish with a cherry or orange twist and enjoy.

Ingredients

2 oz bourbon or rye whiskey
1 oz sweet vermouth
2 dashes of Angostura bitters
Ice cubes
Maraschino cherry or orange twist for garnish

Instructions

Chill the Glass: If you’re making a cocktail, put your glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you mix the drink.
Mix Ingredients: Add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass.
Add Ice: Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir briskly for 20 to 30 seconds or until the mixture is well-chilled.
Strain the Drink: Throw away the ice in your cocktail glass and strain the chilled mixture into the glass.
Garnish & Serve: Add a maraschino cherry or an orange twist; serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

Chilled Glass: Using a properly chilled glass will help maintain the chill in the cocktail and enhance the flavor.
Be an Aperitif: Make the Manhattan premeasured for dinner to flavor the appetite.
Pair With Savory Snacks: Enjoy with nuts, olives, or charcuterie.
Garnish Elegantly: Get creative with garnishes like brandished cherries or a flaming orange peel.
Adjust Sweetness: One way to make a “Perfect Manhattan” that uses dry vermouth instead of sweet.

Tips and Variations

Experiment with Whiskey: Go with rye for something spicier or bourbon for a sweet, smooth hand.
Change Vermouth: Make a drier Manhattan by using dry vermouth instead of sweet, or use half and half for something in between.
Experiment with Bitters: Orange or chocolate bitters can provide an interesting twist on the traditional recipe.
Use Smoked Whiskey: Add a dimension with a smoldering or peated whiskey.
Serve It On the Rocks: For a more casual alternative, serve your Manhattan on the rocks in a rocks glass.

Preparation Time

Preparation Time: 5 minutes
Serving Size: 1

Nutrition Information

Calories: 150
Protein: 0 g
Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 4 g
Sugar: 3 g
Alcohol: 18 g

Ingredient Substitutes

Whiskey Replacement: Replace with brandy for a smoother find or rum for Caribbean flavor found.
Sweet Vermouth substitute: Trade red wine and a bit of simple syrup for similar flavor
Bitters: Go for aromatic bitters, such as Peychaud’s or homemade bitters if Angostura isn’t accessible.
Cherry Garnish: Replace with fresh berries, or a candied slice of orange for a different look.
Ice Alternatives: Go with big ice cubes or whiskey stones to cool without too much melt.

Frequently Asked Questions

How is Manhattan different from an Old Fashioned?

The Manhattan indicates sweet vermouth and bitters; the Old Fashioned indicates sugar and water.

Is it possible to make a Manhattan without bitters?

Yes, but bitters are critical to the classic flavor. You can replace it with a splash of orange liqueur for depth.

What’s the best whiskey for Manhattan?

Rye whiskey is traditional, but good-quality bourbons also do the trick nicely.

Can I prepare a Manhattan in advance?

Yes, prepare the drink (no ice) and refrigerate. Stir with ice before serving.

Which glass is best for Manhattan?

The classic option is a coupe or martini glass, though you could also serve it in a rocks glass for a more laid-back vibe.

Conclusion

The Manhattan is one of the few cocktails that can be proud of its flavor-rich, enduring, classic. It takes a few simple ingredients and a little creativity to control this iconic beverage to suit any occasion. No matter if you go with classic Manhattan, or throw a curveball for your recipe, this cocktail never disappoints. Here’s to drinking this beautiful, boozy cocktail at home!

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