Manhattan
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that's both elegant and timeless, known for its smooth, rich flavor. It's a simple yet sophisticated drink, typically made with whiskey (usually rye or bourbon), sweet vermouth, and bitters.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Rye or Bourbon Whiskey
- 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 2-3 dashes Angostura Bitters
- Ice Cubes
- 1 Marashino Cherry (for garnish)
- 1 Orange Peel Twist (for garnish)
Instructions
- Chill the Glass: Start by chilling a Martini glass or a small cocktail glass.
- Combine Ingredients: In a mixing glass, combine the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.
- Stir with Ice: Add ice to the mixing glass and stir the mixture well until it is thoroughly chilled. Unlike many cocktails, a Manhattan is stirred, not shaken, to maintain its clarity and texture.
- Strain: Strain the mixture into the chilled glass.
- Garnish: Garnish with a maraschino cherry. Optionally, you can also twist an orange peel over the drink to release its oils, then either drop it into the drink or rub it around the rim of the glass.
- Serve: Serve the drink straight up, without ice.
Notes
- Whiskey Choice: The choice between rye or bourbon comes down to personal preference. Rye provides a spicier, more robust flavor, while bourbon will make the drink sweeter and smoother.
- Vermouth Ratio: The ratio of whiskey to vermouth can be adjusted according to taste. Some prefer a drier Manhattan with less vermouth.
- Bitters: Angostura bitters are traditional, but feel free to experiment with other types of bitters to find your preferred flavor.