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Manhattan Drink





Manhattan Drink Recipe

Description of the Recipe

Mix the perfect Manhattan Drink cocktail! Discover the rich history, tips for the best whiskey, and variations to make it your own. The Manhattan is a timeless cocktail that has been a staple in bars and homes for well over a century. This elegant drink, known for its rich flavor and smooth finish, perfectly balances the boldness of whiskey with the sweetness of vermouth and the slight bitterness of Angostura bitters. Whether enjoyed as a sophisticated aperitif or a nightcap, the Manhattan stands out for its simplicity and depth of character. It’s a drink that exudes sophistication and class, making it a favorite among cocktail enthusiasts.

Ingredients – Manhattan Drink

For One Manhattan:

  • 2 ounces rye or bourbon whiskey
  • 1 ounce sweet vermouth
  • 2-3 dashes Angostura bitters
  • Ice
  • Maraschino cherry or a twist of lemon peel, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making a Manhattan

1. Chill Your Glass

  1. Prepare the Glass: Begin by chilling your cocktail glass. You can do this by placing it in the freezer for a few minutes or by filling it with ice water while you prepare the drink.

2. Mix the Ingredients

  1. Combine in a Mixing Glass: Fill a mixing glass with ice. Pour in the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters.
  2. Stir: Stir the mixture gently for about 30 seconds. Stirring, rather than shaking, helps to chill the drink without overly diluting it, maintaining the Manhattan’s silky texture.

3. Strain and Serve

  1. Strain the Cocktail: Discard the ice from your chilled cocktail glass, if you used ice water. Strain the mixture into the chilled glass using a cocktail strainer.
  2. Garnish: Add a maraschino cherry or a twist of lemon peel for garnish. For an added touch of elegance, you can express the oils from the lemon peel over the drink before adding it to the glass.

4. Enjoy

  1. Savor: Take a moment to appreciate the aromas before taking your first sip. The balance of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters creates a complex, yet smooth flavor profile that is truly delightful.

Tips and Variations for Manhattan Drink

Choose Your Whiskey

The type of whiskey you use can significantly influence the flavor of your Manhattan. Rye whiskey will give your drink a spicier kick, while bourbon will provide a sweeter, smoother finish. Experiment with different brands and types to find your preferred taste.

Experiment with Vermouth

While sweet vermouth is traditional, you can explore different brands to see how they change the flavor profile. Some might be richer and more herbal, while others are lighter and more floral.

Adjust the Bitters – Manhattan Drink

The standard Manhattan uses Angostura bitters, but you can try other types like orange bitters or Peychaud’s bitters for a unique twist. Each type of bitters will add a different layer of complexity to your cocktail.

Make it Perfect

A “Perfect Manhattan” uses equal parts sweet and dry vermouth, which gives the drink a drier, more balanced flavor. Simply substitute half of the sweet vermouth with dry vermouth in the recipe.

Add a Touch of Smoke – Manhattan Drink

For a smoky Manhattan, rinse your glass with a small amount of smoky Scotch before straining in the cocktail. This adds a subtle smokiness without overpowering the drink.

Serve it on the Rocks

While the traditional Manhattan is served straight up, you can also serve it on the rocks for a more casual presentation. Use a large ice cube to minimize dilution.

Make a Batch

If you’re hosting a party, consider making a batch of Manhattans. Combine the ingredients in a pitcher and keep it chilled. When ready to serve, stir with ice and strain into individual glasses.

Preparation and Cooking Time – Manhattan Drink

  • Preparation Time: 5 minutes
  • Total Time: 5 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

  • Calories: 160
  • Total Fat: 0g
  • Sodium: 0mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 4g
  • Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 0g

Historical Tidbits about the Manhattan Drink

The Manhattan cocktail has a storied history, dating back to the mid-19th century. One of the most popular origin stories credits its creation to the Manhattan Club in New York City in the 1870s. According to legend, the drink was invented for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill (Winston Churchill’s mother). However, this story has been disputed, with some evidence suggesting the drink was already in existence prior to this event.

Regardless of its exact origins, the Manhattan quickly became one of the most popular cocktails in the United States. Its simplicity and elegance made it a favorite in both high-end bars and casual establishments. The drink’s enduring popularity is a testament to its perfect balance of flavors.

The Manhattan is also notable for its role in cocktail culture. It was one of the first cocktails to prominently feature vermouth, paving the way for other iconic drinks like the Martini and the Negroni. The use of bitters in the Manhattan also set a standard for the inclusion of bitters in many other cocktails.

Over the years, the Manhattan has remained largely unchanged, a true testament to its timeless appeal. Today, it is enjoyed by cocktail enthusiasts around the world, whether in its original form or with slight variations that reflect personal tastes and regional preferences.