Manhattan
The Manhattan cocktail is a timeless and sophisticated libation with a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Legend has it that the cocktail was created at the Manhattan Club in New York City in the 1870s for a banquet hosted by Winston Churchill's mother. Made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, the Manhattan is a quintessential cocktail that has remained popular for generations.
Ingredients and Tools:
60 ml (2 oz) rye whiskey or bourbon
30 ml (1 oz) sweet vermouth
2 dashes Angostura bitters
Ice cubes
Mixing glass
Bar spoon
Jigger
Cocktail cherry for garnish (optional)
Orange twist for garnish (optional)
Preparation Steps:
Fill a mixing glass with ice cubes.
Measure and pour 60 ml (2 oz) of rye whiskey or bourbon into the mixing glass.
Add 30 ml (1 oz) of sweet vermouth to the glass.
Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters.
Stir the mixture gently with a bar spoon for about 30 seconds to chill the ingredients and properly dilute the drink.
Strain the cocktail into a chilled cocktail glass.
Optionally, garnish with a cocktail cherry or a twist of orange peel.
Flavor Profile:
The Manhattan cocktail offers a harmonious blend of rich, robust flavors, with the spicy kick of rye whiskey or the smoother profile of bourbon complemented by the sweetness of vermouth and the complexity of bitters. It's a bold and complex drink that's perfect for sipping on special occasions.
Mixoloco - Mixology Tips:
Choosing Whiskey: Selecting the right whiskey is crucial for a delicious Manhattan. While rye whiskey is the traditional choice, bourbon can also be used for a slightly sweeter flavor profile. Experiment with different brands to find your favorite.
Vermouth Quality: The quality of sweet vermouth can greatly impact the taste of your Manhattan. Opt for a high-quality vermouth with rich, complex flavors to elevate your cocktail.
Chilling Technique: Properly chilling the Manhattan is essential for achieving the ideal drinking temperature without over-diluting the drink. Stirring the cocktail with ice for about 30 seconds ensures the perfect balance of chill and dilution.
Garnish Choice: While a cocktail cherry or orange twist is the traditional garnish for a Manhattan, feel free to get creative and experiment with other options, such as a lemon twist or even a Luxardo cherry.
