Few cocktails exude the timeless elegance and rich history of the Manhattan. A mainstay in upscale bars and home lounges alike, the Manhattan is a drink that speaks of jazz-era sophistication, tailored suits, and smoky loungesbut also finds its place in the modern mixologist’s arsenal.
Whether you’re a curious beginner or a seasoned aficionado, this iconic cocktail never goes out of style.
A Brief History of the Manhattan
Legend has it that the Manhattan was first stirred to life in the early 1880s at the Manhattan Club in New York City. It was reportedly created for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill (mother of Winston Churchill), although that tale has since been debunked. Still, its name and mystique stuck.
The Manhattan quickly became the toast of New York’s elite and was one of the first cocktails to feature vermouth, bringing balance and depth to strong spirits like whiskey. As American cocktail culture grew, so did the Manhattan’s reputation earning its place among the “big six” classic cocktails alongside the Martini and Old Fashioned.
The Classic Manhattan Recipe
Ingredients:
- 2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon)
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Garnish: Maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel
Instructions:
- Chill your glass: Place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water while you mix.
- Combine ingredients: In a mixing glass filled with ice, pour the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Stir, don’t shake: Stir gently for about 30 seconds until well chilled.
- Strain: Discard the ice in your serving glass if chilling it that way, then strain the mixture into the glass.
- Garnish with style: Drop in a maraschino cherry or express an orange peel over the drink for a citrusy aroma.
Rye vs. Bourbon: What’s the Difference?
The type of whiskey you choose has a significant impact on your Manhattan’s flavor:
- Rye Whiskey (traditional choice): Spicy, dry, and bold. It brings a sharp edge that balances beautifully with sweet vermouth.
- Bourbon: Sweeter and smoother, with notes of vanilla and caramel. Bourbon Manhattans are a bit rounder and more approachable for some palates.
Try both and see which suits your taste or let your mood decide.
Garnish Options
- Maraschino Cherry: The classic choice. Opt for high-quality ones like Luxardo for a rich, authentic finish.
- Orange or Lemon Peel: Adds a zesty aromatic lift. Express the oils by twisting the peel over the drink and rubbing it around the rim.
- Brandied Cherry: A luxurious alternative to the maraschino, perfect for a deeper flavor profile.
Glassware & Serving Tips
- Best Glass: A chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass is ideal. These elegant, stemmed glasses maintain the drink’s temperature and aesthetic appeal.
- Ice Matters: Since the Manhattan is stirred (not shaken), use large, clear ice cubes in your mixing glass to minimize dilution while chilling evenly.
- No Ice in the Glass: Manhattans are served “up”, meaning chilled but without ice in the final drink.
Manhattan Variations to Explore
- Perfect Manhattan
- 1 oz rye or bourbon
- ½ oz sweet vermouth + ½ oz dry vermouth
- 2 dashes bitters
- A balanced version with a drier finish.
- Dry Manhattan
- 2 oz rye or bourbon
- 1 oz dry vermouth
- 2 dashes orange bitters
- Garnish with a lemon twist for brightness.
- Rob Roy
- Substitute Scotch whisky for the rye or bourbon.
- Smokier and more robust in flavor.
- Black Manhattan
- Swap sweet vermouth with Amaro (like Averna).
- Earthy, bittersweet, and complex.
Final Stir: The Manhattan’s Enduring Allure
The Manhattan isn’t just a drink, it’s an experience. It invites you to slow down, savor, and appreciate the interplay of flavors. Its simple elegance makes it the perfect choice for a quiet evening, a dinner party aperitif, or a night out with class.
So next time you’re in the mood for a cocktail that combines strength, balance, and timeless charm, stir up a Manhattan. Raise your glass, and toast to the golden age of cocktails still going strong, one sip at a time.
Cheers! 🥂