Manhattan Recipe: A Classic Cocktail For Any Occasion

Cheetahshop

January 20, 2023

Introduction

Manhattan is a classic cocktail that has been enjoyed for centuries by cocktail enthusiasts worldwide. This drink is a perfect blend of Bourbon or Rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters, which are stirred with ice and strained into a chilled glass. It is a simple, elegant, and versatile drink that can be enjoyed as an aperitif or after-dinner drink. In this article, we will share a classic Manhattan recipe, along with some variations and tips to make it perfect every time.

Ingredients

To make a classic Manhattan, you will need the following ingredients:

2 oz. Bourbon or Rye whiskey
1 oz. sweet vermouth
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Maraschino cherry or orange peel, for garnish (optional)

Bourbon or Rye Whiskey

The choice of whiskey is essential in making a Manhattan. Bourbon is a sweeter whiskey, while Rye whiskey is spicier and drier. Traditionally, a Manhattan is made with Rye whiskey, but you can use Bourbon if you prefer a sweeter taste.

Sweet Vermouth

Sweet vermouth is a fortified wine that is flavored with various botanicals. It adds a sweet and herbal note to the Manhattan, balancing the spiciness of the whiskey.

Angostura Bitters

Angostura bitters are a concentrated mixture of herbs, spices, and fruits that add a bitter and aromatic flavor to the Manhattan. They are essential in giving the drink its characteristic taste.

Maraschino Cherry or Orange Peel

A Maraschino cherry or orange peel is an optional garnish that adds a fruity note to the Manhattan. You can use either one or both, depending on your preference.

Instructions

Now that we have gathered our ingredients let's make a classic Manhattan.

Fill a mixing glass with ice.
Add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
Stir the mixture with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds, until it is well-chilled.
Strain the mixture into a chilled cocktail glass.
Garnish with a Maraschino cherry or orange peel, if desired.
Serve and enjoy!

Tips for Making the Perfect Manhattan

Here are some tips to make your Manhattan perfect every time:

Use high-quality ingredients. The better the quality of whiskey and vermouth, the better the drink will taste.
Stir the drink, don't shake it. Shaking can dilute the drink and make it cloudy.
Use a chilled glass. A chilled glass will keep the drink cold and refreshing.
Experiment with the ratio. The classic Manhattan recipe calls for a 2:1 ratio of whiskey to vermouth, but you can adjust the ratio to suit your taste.

Nutrition

A classic Manhattan is not a low-calorie drink, but it can be enjoyed in moderation as part of a healthy diet. Here is the nutrition information for a standard Manhattan recipe:

Calories: 175
Carbohydrates: 6g
Fat: 0g
Protein: 0g
Sugar: 5g

Variations

Manhattan is a versatile drink that can be customized to suit your taste. Here are some variations that you can try:

Perfect Manhattan: This version uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth for a more balanced taste.
Rob Roy: This version uses Scotch whiskey instead of Bourbon or Rye.
Blood and Sand: This version uses equal parts Scotch, sweet vermouth, Cherry Heering, and orange juice.
Black Manhattan: This version uses Averna, an Italian bitter liqueur, instead of Angostura bitters.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Manhattan is a classic cocktail that never goes out of style. It is a simple and elegant drink that can be enjoyed on any occasion. With a few quality ingredients and some simple techniques, you can make a perfect Manhattan every time. Whether you prefer the classic recipe or a variation, Manhattan is a drink that is sure to impress. So, gather your ingredients, mix up a Manhattan, and enjoy!