Yes, the Manhattan was invented in Manhattan! That was a long time ago, but loads of people still think it’s one of the best cocktails ever.
Some how this combination of bourbon and sweet vermouth, plus a dash of bitters, just works and stands the test of time. Of course, there are those who say it’s not a true Manhattan without using rye whiskey, but hey, I’m a bourbon girl. Try both and choose for yourself.
The History of the Manhattan
The Manhattan’s origins are shrouded in a mix of fact and legend. Most accounts trace it back to the early 1870s at the Manhattan Club in New York City. One popular tale suggests it was created for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, mother of Winston Churchill. While this story is debated, the Manhattan undeniably emerged during a period when American bartenders were refining the art of cocktail making.
The cocktail’s popularity grew throughout the late 19th and early 20th centuries, becoming a staple in pre-Prohibition bars and surviving the dark days of the Volstead Act. Today, it remains a hallmark of classic cocktail menus worldwide.
The Ingredients of a Perfect Manhattan
The Manhattan’s beauty lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Whiskey: Traditionally rye whiskey is used, offering a spicy profile. Bourbon can also be substituted for a sweeter flavor.
- Sweet Vermouth: Adds a rich, herbal complexity. Choose a high-quality vermouth for the best results.
- Angostura Bitters: Just a few dashes provide depth and balance.
- Garnish: A maraschino cherry or a twist of orange peel.
Where to find ingredients for the Manhattan
You can find all the ingredients at Spirits Kiosk (10% off the entire site by quoting this code: ALushLife10SK.) in the UK; or Saucey.com in the USA!
The Equipment You’ll Need
Creating a Manhattan requires minimal equipment, making it an accessible cocktail for home enthusiasts. You can find everything on my Home Bar Essential pages.
You won’t be needing a cocktail shaker for this one! Grab a jigger, a barspoon, mixing glass and Martini Glass or coupe glass for this Gibson Martini recipe.
- Mixing Glass: Essential for stirring the ingredients to a chilled perfection.
- Bar Spoon: For smooth and efficient stirring.
- Jigger: Ensures precise measurements of each ingredient.
- Strainer: A Hawthorne or julep strainer will work to pour the cocktail cleanly.
- Coupe Glass: The Manhattan is traditionally served straight up in a coupe or martini glass, though it can also be enjoyed over ice in a rocks glass.
How to Make the Manhattan
- Chill the Glass: Place your serving glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while you mix.
- Combine Ingredients: Add whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass filled with ice.
- Stir: Stir gently for about 30 seconds until well-chilled and properly diluted.
- Strain: Use a strainer to pour the cocktail into your chilled glass.
- Garnish: Add a maraschino cherry or an orange twist for the final touch.
Variations to Try
While the traditional Manhattan is a classic, it has inspired several variations:
- Rob Roy: Substitutes Scotch whisky for the rye or bourbon.
- Black Manhattan: Replaces sweet vermouth with Amaro for a richer, more bitter flavor profile.
The Manhattan cocktail is more than just a drink; it’s a piece of cocktail history that embodies elegance and balance. Whether you’re enjoying one in a dimly lit bar or crafting it in your own kitchen, this classic will never go out of style.
Raise your glass, toast to its storied past, and savor the timeless charm of the Manhattan. Bottom’s up!
Here is the recipe!
Manhattan
Equipment
Ingredients
- 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon
- 1 oz sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura Bitters
- cherry
Instructions
- Combine rye whiskey, sweet vermouth and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice
- Stir until chilled
- Strain into the glass
- Garnish with a cherry