The Manhattan is pure, unassuming decadence. The recipe is so simple — just 2 parts rye whiskey, 1 part sweet vermouth and a couple dashes of bitters. Yet somehow this glorious combination results in one of the most elegant classic cocktails of all time.
Back when I was bartending, I had such respect for customers who would order a Manhattan that they would get two amarena cherries. And for our favorite customers, we used to make mini Manhattans instead of standard whiskey shots.
The Manhattan makes a great base for experimenting. Try using different types of bitters (chocolate or walnut would be delicious) or add a spoon of fruity or spicy liqueur. I always recommend using the best quality booze possible, but it’s especially important when it comes to a Manhattan. A high quality rye will make all the difference for getting a truly decadent outcome, so go ahead and splurge on a nice bottle.
Ingredients
- 6 cl Rye whiskey
- 3 cl Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 2 oz Rye whiskey
- 1½ oz Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
Instructions
- Stir all ingredients vigorously with ice
- Strain into a chilled fancy stem glass
- Garnish with two amarena cherries