Manhattan: The Ultimate Classic Cocktail

There’s something timeless about a Manhattan. It’s the kind of drink that makes you feel like you’ve stepped into an old black-and-white movie, sitting at a grand bar with soft jazz playing in the background. My love affair with the Manhattan started on a chilly winter evening. A friend offered to make me “the best cocktail I’d ever have.” Skeptical but intrigued, I watched as he carefully stirred whiskey, vermouth, and bitters together, then garnished it with a single cherry. One sip was all it took—I was hooked. Now, it’s my go-to cocktail for quiet evenings or special occasions.

Table of Contents

• About Manhattan
• Why You’ll Love Manhattan
• Key Ingredients
• How To Make Manhattan
• Have It Your Way
• Nutritional Facts
• Health Benefits
• Other Recipes You’ll Love
• Manhattan Recipe

About Manhattan

The Manhattan is one of the oldest and most iconic cocktails, dating back to the late 19th century. Believed to have been first crafted at the Manhattan Club in New York City, this classic drink combines whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters for a perfectly balanced, slightly sweet, and aromatic experience. Traditionally made with rye whiskey, the Manhattan has become a canvas for slight variations while maintaining its sophisticated charm.

Why You’ll Love Manhattan

• Classic Elegance: A timeless drink that never goes out of style.
• Easy to Make: Just three main ingredients, stirred to perfection.
• Versatile: Customize the whiskey and vermouth ratios to your taste.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Enjoy it as a pre-dinner aperitif or an after-dinner treat.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The combination of whiskey’s warmth, vermouth’s sweetness, and bitters’ complexity is irresistible.

Key Ingredients

1. Rye Whiskey: The spicy, robust flavor of rye is the traditional choice, but bourbon works well for a sweeter twist.
2. Sweet Vermouth: Adds a touch of sweetness and herbal complexity. Choose a high-quality vermouth for the best flavor.
3. Angostura Bitters: Essential for adding depth and balance.
4. Maraschino Cherry: A classic garnish that complements the drink’s flavor and adds a pop of color.
5. Orange Peel (Optional): A fresh orange twist can add a subtle citrus aroma.

How To Make Manhattan

1. Add all Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, Angustora bitters, and Luxardo Cherry syrup into a shaker with ice and stir.

2. Strain into a coupe glass and garnished with a Maraschino cherry.

Have It Your Way

Manhattans are endlessly customizable:

• Whiskey Choices: Experiment with bourbon for a sweeter flavor or try a smoky single malt.
• Vermouth Variations: Swap sweet vermouth for dry vermouth for a “Perfect Manhattan.”
• Add a Twist: Use orange or chocolate bitters for a unique spin.
• Make It Luxurious: Garnish with a brandied cherry for an elevated touch.
• On the Rocks or Neat: Serve it over a large ice cube for a slower sip or strain it neat into a chilled glass.

Nutritional Facts

For one serving:

• Calories: ~150-170
• Carbs: ~6 grams
• Sugars: ~4-5 grams
• Alcohol Content: Varies based on whiskey and vermouth ratios.

Health Benefits

• Moderation Is Key: Sipping a Manhattan mindfully can be a relaxing ritual.
• Digestive Aid: Bitters have been traditionally used to support digestion.
• Low-Sugar Option: Compared to many cocktails, the Manhattan is relatively low in sugar.

Other Recipes You’ll Love

• Cranberry Cinnamon Whiskey Sour
• Classic Glühwein
• The Siesta Cocktail
• Campari Margarita
• Butter Pecan Old Fashioned

Manhattan Recipe

Manhattan: The Ultimate Classic Cocktail

Berry Berry Life

Discover the timeless elegance of the Manhattan cocktail. This classic recipe combines rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters for a perfectly balanced, sophisticated drink.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Total Time 5 minutes mins

Course Drinks

Cuisine American

Servings 1

Calories 150 kcal

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x

• ▢ 2 oz Rye Whiskey
• ▢ 1 oz Sweet Vermouth
• ▢ 2 dashes Aromatic Bitters
• ▢ ½ Tsp Maraschino Cherries Syrup
• ▢ Maraschino Cherries garnish

Instructions

 

• Add all Whiskey, Sweet Vermouth, Angustora bitters, and Luxardo Cherry syrup into a shaker with ice and stir.
• Strain into a coupe glass and garnished with a Maraschino cherry.

Notes

Recipe Notes

• Chill Your Glass: A cold glass enhances the experience.
• Use a Mixing Glass: Stirring the cocktail with ice ensures a smooth, well-balanced drink.
• High-Quality Ingredients: Since this drink has so few components, every ingredient matters.
• Strain Carefully: Use a fine strainer to catch any small ice chips.

Video

Nutrition

Serving: 1ServingCalories: 150kcal

Keyword Cocktail, Drinks

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