A Manhattan cocktail is strong, slightly sweet, and aromatic. This drink is fancy and impressive yet so easy to make with just three ingredients.
The classic Manhattan was created in the 1880s at New York City’s Manhattan Club. It’s a popular drink made by stirring rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters together with ice, then straining into a coupe glass, and garnishing with a cocktail cherry.
Why you'll love this recipe
- Iconic: The Manhattan is among the first cocktails in history and has rightfully earned it’s spot as one of the most popular classic cocktails.
- Flavorful: Even with its humble ingredients, each sip is packed with flavor!
- Crowd pleaser: Enjoy this cocktail for happy hour, as an after-dinner drink, or any special occasion.
Ingredients
Building a great Manhattan is super easy. Here’s what you’ll need to make this sophisticated cocktail at home.
- Whiskey: Rye whiskey is the traditional whiskey of choice, however bourbon is a common alternative. Rye has more spice to it, while bourbon is more mellow and sweet.
- Vermouth: Sweet vermouth is a fortified wine that’s sweet, spicy, and bitter.
- Aromatic bitters: Angostura bitters add a classic yet complex and bitter undertone to cocktails.
Equipment
A Manhattan should be stirred, rather than shaken. Use a cocktail mixing glass and bar spoon to stir this drink together.
How to make a manhattan cocktail
Find the complete recipe with a full list of ingredients below!
- Step 1: Combine the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and angostura bitters together in a cocktail glass filled with ice. Stir until well chilled.
- Step 2: Once chilled, strain into a chilled coupe glass.
- Step 3: Garnish with a maraschino cherry or luxardo cherry.
Manhattan variations
- Bourbon Manhattan: For a sweeter drink, replace rye whiskey with your favorite bourbon.
- Brandy Manhattan: A fancy twist on the classic cocktail, using cognac in place of whiskey.
- Black Manhattan: Swap out the sweet vermouth for Italian amaro for a caramel and chocolate finish.
Related cocktail recipes
- French Manhattan: This sophisticated twist on a traditional Manhattan uses cognac and orange liqueur for a sweeter, smoother taste.
- French 77: A classic cocktail featuring gin, champagne, lemon juice, and a touch of elderflower liqueur for a delightful blend of effervescence and citrus kick.
- Champagne Cocktail: Combine bubbly sparkling wine, a sugar cube, and angostura bitters for festive and elegant drink!
- Negroni: This bitter spirit-forward drink calls for gin, campari, and sweet vermouth.
- Aviation: Known for its indigo hue and citrus flavor, this cocktail is bright and floral.
- Gimlet: Shake gin, simple syrup, and lime juice together for a sweet, tart, and smooth cocktail.
Classic Manhattan Cocktail
A Manhattan is strong, slightly sweet, and aromatic. This drink is fancy and impressive yet so easy to make with just 3 ingredients and a cocktail cherry.
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 ounces rye whiskey
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes angostura bitters
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions
- Add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and angostura bitters to a cocktail mixing glass. Fill halfway with ice and stir until chilled.
- Strain into a coupe glass and garnish with a cocktail cherry.
Nutrition
Calories: 174kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 0.02gPotassium: 1mgSugar: 0.3gIron: 0.01mg
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