How to Make a Classic Manhattan Cocktail

A timeless and sophisticated drink, the Manhattan is a staple in the cocktail world. This recipe provides a step-by-step guide to crafting your own perfect Manhattan at home.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

You will need:

  • 50 ml rye whiskey (or bourbon; see notes on best alcohol below)
  • 20 ml sweet vermouth
  • 1 dash Angostura bitters
  • Ice
  • Maraschino cherry (for garnish)

Step 2: Chill Your Glass

Chill a coupe or cocktail glass with ice. This ensures your Manhattan is always at the optimal temperature.

Step 3: Mix Ingredients in a Mixing Glass

Charge an ice-filled mixing glass with rye whiskey (50 ml), sweet vermouth (20 ml), and Angostura bitters (1 dash).

Step 4: Stir Well

Slowly stir the mixture for approximately 20-30 seconds. This will cool and dilute the cocktail to a beautiful blend of flavors. Do not shake the drink, as this makes the drink go cloudy.

Step 5: Strain into Chilled Glass

Empty your chilled cocktail glass of ice and strain the Manhattan mixture into the glass.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Embellish your Manhattan with the time-tested maraschino cherry. Gently drop it into the glass or skewer it on a cocktail pick and rest it across the rim. Your expertly crafted Manhattan is served!

Answers to Your Questions:

How to create a great Manhattan?

To make an excellent Manhattan, use good ingredients, first and foremost a good rye whiskey and sweet vermouth. Make sure you chill your glass and stir your cocktail well with plenty of ice for good dilution and cooling. Taste and balance the vermouth or bitters to your liking. A good, fresh maraschino cherry (not the bright red, overly sweet kind) provides an extra hint of perfection.

How is an Old Fashioned different from a Manhattan?

The sweetener and the use of vermouth are the key differences. A Manhattan is made with whiskey (rye is commonly used), sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters. An Old Fashioned is made with whiskey (bourbon or rye), sugar (or simple syrup), and Angostura bitters, with sometimes a piece of citrus peel squeezed over the top.

How to prepare a Manhattan cocktail in the UK?

To prepare a Manhattan in the UK is not any different! The recipe and procedures remain the same. You just need to procure the ingredients: rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters, which are all readily available in the UK.

What alcohol is best to use in a Manhattan?

Classically, the finest liquor for a Manhattan is rye whiskey. The spicy and strong characteristics of rye counterbalance the sweetness of the vermouth. Alternatively, bourbon can be used, making a slightly sweeter and smoother Manhattan. The finest liquor remains a matter of personal taste.

🛠️ Instruments / Bar Tools Used:

Mixing glass – to combine the ingredients.

Bar spoon – for stirring (implied, though not explicitly named).

Jigger – to measure 50 ml and 20 ml (for whiskey and vermouth).

Strainer – to strain the drink into the glass.

Cocktail pick – optional, for garnishing with a cherry.

Ice – used in both chilling the glass and mixing the cocktail.

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