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Manhattan
The Manhattan is pure heaven for the Whisky lover, mixing bourbon, vermouth and a hint of bitters. The Manhattan can be mixed "Dry" with French (dry) Vermouth, "Perfect" with a combination of Vermouths, or "Sweet" with Italian (sweet) Vermouth. The latter is the original and best. The Manhattan was traditionally made with Rye Whisky, but Bourbon became a far more popular base as Rye fell into obscurity. This may be set to change as producers are once again bringing Rye back to the discerning drinker.
Mix
2.5 shots of Bourbon
1 shot of Sweet Vermouth
1 dash of Old Fashioned Bitters
Shake
Add all the ingredients to the mixing tin, add lots of ice, stir thoroughly and strain.
Pour
Serve in a Martini glass and garnish with a cherry.
Ingredient Profile
Condensation runs down the Martini glass in which the classic Manhattan cocktail is served.
More on the Manhattan
Words of wisdom on the Manhattan from Gaz Regan who crowns this fabulous drink the "King of Cocktails".
David Wondrich lamented the move from Rye to Bourbon in modern Manhattans, but after plenty of blind tastings notes that high proof bourbon works just as well as Rye.
Kaiser Penguin and an educated audience of commentators discuss favourite Manhattan recipes.
Skippys bar in Headingley, UK, mixes the "Madhattan", adding an eighth of a shot of Blueberry liqueur and an eighth of a shot of Velvet Falernum. For those with a less exotic drinks cabinet, experiment with fruit liqueurs and syrups. Creme de Mure works well, but be careful not to swamp the Manhattan formula with more than a touch of other ingredients.
Gaz Regan suggests mixing a shorter version of the Manhattan and then topping off with Champagne. A sort of Manhattan made in the style of a Champagne Cocktail.
Shot by Shot Guide
PartyCocktails.com's shot by shot guide shows how to mix a Manhattan cocktail. Don't forget to check out our Top Ten Tips For Mixing Cocktails
Fill a Martini glass with ice and water to chill it while mixing the cocktail.
Measure 1 shot of Sweet Vermouth and add to the mixing tin.
Add 1 dashes of Old Fashioned Bitters to the mixing tin.
Add lots of ice to the mixing tin.
Stir the drink well until condensation forms on the outside of the mixing tin.
Discard the ice and water in the glass.
Strain the contents of the mixing tin into the glass.
Taste the cocktail and if necessary adjust the balance with a touch of extra sugar or citrus juice.
Garnish the cocktail with a cherry.