Cocktail Fun

Manhattan

Manhattan cocktail image
Manhattan

Description

The Manhattan is one of the true giants of classic cocktail history, a drink that has long been associated with confidence, refinement, and old-world style. Built from whiskey, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters, it creates a flavour that is deep, smooth, and beautifully layered, with warmth from the spirit, subtle sweetness from the vermouth, and a gentle spiced complexity that lingers on the finish. Said to have emerged in New York during the late 19th century, the Manhattan quickly became a symbol of sophisticated drinking, proving that a few well-chosen ingredients can create something truly unforgettable.

What makes the Manhattan so enduring is its effortless sense of balance. Stirred until perfectly chilled and usually finished with a cherry garnish, it feels polished, elegant, and quietly powerful. It does not rely on gimmicks or excess; instead, it wins you over with depth, structure, and timeless character. For whiskey lovers, the Manhattan is more than a cocktail, it is a statement of taste, a classic that remains as stylish and satisfying today as it was more than a century ago.

Ingredients

  • 50 ml Rye whiskey
  • 25 ml Sweet Vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
  • 1 piece Maraschino Cherry (for garnish)
  • Ice

Instructions

Mix the drink: In a mixing glass, combine the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters.

Stir: Add ice and stir for about 20 seconds until the drink is well chilled.

Strain: Strain the mixture into a chilled coupe or martini glass.

Garnish: Garnish with a maraschino cherry for a classic finish.

Recommended glassware

Coupe Glass
Coupe Glass (recommended)

An elegant stemmed glass for shaken or stirred cocktails served up.

120–240 ml Stemmed glass with a broad shallow bowl.

Best for: Daiquiri, Sidecar, Manhattan served up, Gimlet, Clover Club.

Garnish: Great for expressed citrus peels, cherries, and small edible flowers.

Nick and Nora Glass
Nick and Nora Glass

A refined small stemmed glass for stirred and spirit-forward cocktails.

Excellent premium bar alternative.

120–180 ml Small stemmed bowl with inward curve.

Best for: Martinez, Manhattan, Brooklyn, Vesper, Adonis.

Garnish: Best with subtle garnishes like twists or a single cherry.

Quick facts

5 mins Easy Ice
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