Learn how to make the perfect Manhattan cocktail with this bartender-approved guide! 🥃 A rich, smooth blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, this classic drink is easy to master. Get expert tips on ingredients, ratios, and garnishes to craft the ultimate Manhattan every time! 🍒✨
The Classic Manhattan
The Manhattan is a sophisticated and timeless cocktail with a rich, warming flavor profile. Here’s the recipe and step-by-step instructions with images:
Ingredients:
- 2 ounces rye whiskey (or bourbon, if preferred)
- 1-ounce sweet vermouth
- 2-3 dashes of Angostura bitters
- Maraschino cherry, for garnish
- Orange peel (optional), for garnish
Equipment:
- Mixing glass
- Bar spoon
- Jigger or measuring spoons
- Strainer
- Chilled coupe or martini glass
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Fill your coupe or martini glass with ice water to chill it while you prepare the drink. This helps keep your Manhattan perfectly cold.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Mixing Glass
Pour the rye whiskey (or bourbon), sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters into the mixing glass filled with ice.
Step 3: Stir Well
Using your bar spoon, gently stir the mixture for about 20-30 seconds. Stirring chills and slightly dilutes the drink without clouding it, which can happen with shaking. Make sure the spoon reaches the bottom of the glass and stir in a consistent circular motion.
Step 4: Strain into the Chilled Glass
Empty the ice water from your chilled coupe or martini glass. Place the strainer over the mixing glass and carefully pour the Manhattan into the chilled glass.
Step 5: Garnish
- Classic: Drop a high-quality maraschino cherry (not the bright red, syrupy kind) into the glass.
- Optional Orange Twist: Express the oils from an orange peel over the drink by twisting it over the glass, upside down. Then, run the peel around the rim of the glass and either discard it or drop it into the drink.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Your perfectly crafted Manhattan is ready to be savored.
Enjoy your classic Manhattan! Remember that the quality of your ingredients, especially the whiskey and vermouth, will significantly impact the final taste of your cocktail.
