Cocktail Art
Manhattan
The Manhattan is a legendary cocktail dating back to the late nineteenth century in New York. It delivers a rich, spirit-forward profile where the spicy notes of rye whiskey balance the herbal sweetness of red vermouth and the depth of aromatic bitters. It is a sophisticated choice for evening sipping, perfect as an aperitif or a nightcap.
- GlassCocktail glass
- MethodStir
- Time3 min
- Strength≈ 28% ABV
How to make a Manhattan
Stir it in a cocktail glass with ice cubes. About 3 minutes.
- Chill your cocktail glass in the freezer or with ice water.
- Combine the rye whiskey, sweet red vermouth, and Angostura bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice cubes.
- Stir well until the mixture is thoroughly chilled.
- Strain the liquid into the chilled cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Bartender’s tips
- Always stir this cocktail rather than shaking it to keep the texture silky and the appearance crystal clear.
- If you do not have rye whiskey, you can substitute it with bourbon for a slightly sweeter profile, or use Japanese whisky.
- Keep your sweet vermouth refrigerated after opening, as it is a wine-based product and will oxidize over time.
You may also like
If you enjoy the rich, spirit-forward profile of the Manhattan, you might also like these classic drinks: Old Fashioned, Boulevardier, Negroni, and Americano.
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★ 4.6 · 584 ratingsManhattan questions
Which whiskey is best for a Manhattan?
Rye whiskey is the traditional choice for its dry, spicy character, but you can also use bourbon, Japanese whisky, or Southern Comfort depending on your preference.
How strong is a Manhattan cocktail?
The Manhattan is a spirit-forward drink with an alcohol by volume (ABV) of about 28 percent, meaning it should be sipped slowly.
Can I shake a Manhattan instead of stirring?
Shaking is not recommended because it aerates the liquid, dilutes it too quickly, and makes the presentation cloudy instead of clear and smooth.