How to Make a Manhattan Cocktail – Classic, Variations, and More

Introduction

When it comes to classic cocktails, the Manhattan is a true legend. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, this drink has been a staple for over a century. But creating the perfect Manhattan can be challenging for those who don’t know what they’re doing. That’s why we’re here to teach you everything you need to know so you can make your own perfect Manhattan, including classic recipes and variations, low alcohol options, perfecting the recipe, and more.

Classic Manhattan Recipe

The classic Manhattan recipe is a simple mix of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 oz. whiskey
• 1 oz. sweet vermouth
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)

Here’s how to make a classic Manhattan:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters to the glass.
3. Stir until well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry, if desired.

One of the best things about the classic Manhattan recipe is that it’s easy to customize to suit individual taste preferences. For example, if you prefer a sweeter drink, you can add more sweet vermouth. If you prefer a spicier or more bitter flavor, you can add more bitters. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find the perfect balance for your taste buds.

Variations on a Classic Recipe

If you want to put a creative twist on the classic Manhattan recipe, there are plenty of variations to try. Here are a few of the most interesting:

Black Manhattan

Instead of sweet vermouth, this recipe calls for Averna, an Italian liqueur. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 oz. rye whiskey
• 1 oz. Averna
• 2 dashes Angostura bitters
• Lemon twist for garnish (optional)

Here’s how to make a Black Manhattan:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, Averna, and bitters to the glass.
3. Stir until well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a lemon twist, if desired.

Perfect Manhattan

A Perfect Manhattan uses both sweet and dry vermouth instead of just sweet vermouth. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 oz. whiskey
• 1/2 oz. sweet vermouth
• 1/2 oz. dry vermouth
• 2 dashes of bitters
• Maraschino cherry for garnish (optional)

Here’s how to make a Perfect Manhattan:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, dry vermouth, and bitters to the glass.
3. Stir until well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with a maraschino cherry, if desired.

Low Alcohol Manhattan

For those who want to enjoy the taste of a Manhattan without the high alcohol content, there are a few tricks to make a low alcohol version. Here are some tips:

• Use a low-proof whiskey or bourbon
• Use less liquor and more mixer (e.g., vermouth)
• Use alcohol-free bitters
• Use flavored syrups or fruit juices to replace alcohol

Here’s an example of a low alcohol Manhattan:

• 1 oz. low-proof bourbon
• 1 oz. sweet vermouth
• 1 oz. water
• 2 dashes of alcohol-free bitters
• Orange peel for garnish (optional)

Here’s how to make a low alcohol Manhattan:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the low-proof bourbon, sweet vermouth, water, and bitters to the glass.
3. Stir until well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.

Perfect Manhattan

If you want to take your Manhattan-making to the next level, it’s time to focus on the details. Here are some tips for creating the perfect Manhattan:

• Use high-quality ingredients
• Experiment with different types of vermouth
• Change up the ratio of bitters to create a unique flavor
• Choose a whiskey that complements the other ingredients

Here’s a recipe for a perfect Manhattan to get you started:

• 2 oz. rye whiskey
• 1 oz. Carpano Antica Formula vermouth
• 1 dash Angostura bitters
• 1 dash orange bitters
• Orange peel for garnish (optional)

Here’s how to make a perfect Manhattan:

1. Fill a mixing glass with ice.
2. Add the rye whiskey, Carpano Antica Formula vermouth, and bitters to the glass.
3. Stir until well chilled.
4. Strain the mixture into a chilled martini glass.
5. Garnish with an orange peel, if desired.

Manhattan Flight

If you want to impress your guests with your Manhattan-making skills, consider creating a Manhattan flight. Here’s how:

• Choose three variations on the classic Manhattan recipe
• Prepare each recipe in separate mixing glasses
• Pour each Manhattan into a small glass, such as a shot glass or small martini glass
• Arrange the glasses on a tray or platter in a visually pleasing way
• Label each glass with the type of Manhattan it contains

Here are some suggestions for Manhattan variations to include:

• Classic Manhattan
• Perfect Manhattan
• Black Manhattan

DIY Manhattan Mix

If you don’t want to mix a Manhattan every time you crave one, you can make your own DIY Manhattan mix to store and use later. Here’s how:

• Combine 1 1/2 cups of whiskey, 1 cup of sweet vermouth, and 1/2 cup of water in a jar
• Add 3 dashes of bitters and stir well
• Store the mix in the refrigerator for up to a week
• To use, simply pour the mix into a glass, add ice, and garnish with a cherry or orange peel

The DIY Manhattan mix can also be used to create other cocktails, such as the Boulevardier or Negroni, which both use whiskey as a base spirit.

Manhattan Food Pairings

To make your Manhattan drinking experience even better, consider pairing your cocktail with the right food. Here are some suggestions:

• Steak
• Cured meats
• Dark chocolate
• Salty snacks, such as nuts or pretzels
• Cheeses, such as blue cheese or aged cheddar

In general, rich and savory foods work well with the bold and complex flavors of a Manhattan.

Conclusion

Now that you’ve learned everything there is to know about making a Manhattan, it’s time to put your skills to the test. Whether you want a classic or creative variation, a lower alcohol content, or the perfect Manhattan, you can make the perfect cocktail to suit your tastes. And don’t forget to pair your Manhattan with the right foods to create the ultimate drinking experience.