The Manhattan cocktail recipe is one of the most iconic drinks in the world of mixology. With its bold, smooth, and slightly bitter profile, it has stood the test of time as a symbol of sophistication. This cocktail, made with whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters, is beloved by those who appreciate a spirit-forward drink that’s both simple and refined.
Whether you’re hosting a classy dinner party or relaxing after a long day, a Manhattan offers a sense of occasion with every sip.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
-
Classic and Elegant – The Manhattan is a cocktail that never goes out of style.
-
Simple Ingredients – Requires only a few bar staples, yet delivers complex flavor.
-
Quick to Mix – Ready in minutes, perfect for impromptu gatherings.
-
Customizable – Easily adapted with different types of whiskey or bitters.
Ingredients List
Basic Manhattan
-
2 oz rye whiskey (or bourbon)
-
1 oz sweet vermouth
-
2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
-
Ice (for stirring)
-
Maraschino cherry or lemon twist (for garnish)
Optional Variations
-
Dry vermouth (for a drier version)
-
Orange bitters (for a citrus twist)
-
Bitters blend (like Peychaud’s or chocolate bitters)
Timing & Servings
-
Prep Time: 2 minutes
-
Stirring Time: 30 seconds
-
Total Time: 3 minutes
-
Servings: 1 cocktail
Step-by-Step Instructions for Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
Step 1: Chill Your Glass
Before you begin mixing, place a coupe or martini glass in the freezer or fill it with ice water to chill while you make your cocktail.
Step 2: Mix the Cocktail
In a mixing glass, add rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters. Fill the glass with ice and stir gently for about 30 seconds. Stirring, not shaking, is key to keeping the drink clear and silky.
Step 3: Strain and Serve
Empty your chilled glass and strain the cocktail into it using a Hawthorne or julep strainer.
Step 4: Garnish
Add a maraschino cherry for a classic touch or a lemon twist for brightness.
The History of the Manhattan
The origin of the Manhattan is steeped in legend. It’s believed to have been invented in the 1870s at the Manhattan Club in New York City, reportedly for a banquet hosted by Jennie Churchill (Winston Churchill’s mother). However, this story has been disputed.
Regardless of its precise beginning, the Manhattan quickly gained popularity and became a staple of American cocktail culture, especially during the pre-Prohibition era.
Choosing the Right Whiskey
Rye vs Bourbon
-
Rye Whiskey – Traditionally used in a Manhattan. Spicy, dry, and complex.
-
Bourbon – Sweeter and smoother, with notes of caramel and vanilla. Great for beginners.
Recommended Brands
-
Rye: Rittenhouse, Bulleit Rye, Sazerac
-
Bourbon: Maker’s Mark, Woodford Reserve, Buffalo Trace
Understanding Vermouth
Sweet vermouth is a fortified wine flavored with herbs and spices. It balances the strong bite of whiskey in a Manhattan.
Vermouth Tips
-
Store it in the fridge after opening.
-
Use within 1–2 months for best flavor.
-
Recommended brands: Carpano Antica, Dolin Rouge, Cocchi Vermouth di Torino
The Role of Bitters
Bitters are essential in adding depth and complexity. While Angostura bitters are the classic choice, feel free to experiment.
Popular Bitters Choices
-
Angostura (classic, aromatic)
-
Orange bitters (bright and zesty)
-
Chocolate bitters (rich and earthy)
Garnishes: Finishing Touches
Maraschino Cherry
A sweet, boozy garnish that pairs beautifully with the drink’s smoothness. Use high-quality cherries like Luxardo for the best flavor.
Lemon Twist
Offers a clean, citrus aroma and works well if you’re using orange bitters.
Variations of the Manhattan
Perfect Manhattan
-
2 oz whiskey
-
½ oz sweet vermouth
-
½ oz dry vermouth
-
2 dashes bitters
Equal parts sweet and dry vermouth make this version more balanced and slightly drier.
Dry Manhattan
-
2 oz whiskey
-
1 oz dry vermouth
-
2 dashes orange bitters
Lighter and cleaner in taste, best with a lemon twist.
Rob Roy
A Manhattan made with Scotch instead of rye or bourbon. Smokier and earthier in flavor.
Black Manhattan
Replaces sweet vermouth with Averna (an Italian amaro) for a bittersweet and herbal twist.
Tips for the Best Manhattan
Use Fresh Ice
Fresh, clean ice makes a big difference when stirring. Avoid ice that’s been sitting in the freezer absorbing food odors.
Stir, Don’t Shake
Shaking creates bubbles and a cloudy appearance. Stirring keeps the cocktail silky and elegant.
Quality Over Quantity
Since there are only a few ingredients, use the best quality you can afford. This isn’t the drink to skimp on ingredients.
Serving Ideas
When to Serve
-
Cocktail hour
-
Dinner parties
-
After-dinner drink
-
Holiday gatherings
Food Pairings
-
Charcuterie boards
-
Aged cheeses (like gouda or sharp cheddar)
-
Roasted nuts
-
Dark chocolate desserts
Make-Ahead Tips
-
Batch for a party: Mix whiskey, vermouth, and bitters in advance. Store in the fridge in a glass bottle. Stir with ice and serve when needed.
-
Prep garnishes: Keep cherries or lemon twists ready in a small dish or jar.
Nutritional Information (Approximate)
Per 1 Manhattan cocktail:
-
Calories: 175
-
Carbs: 6g
-
Sugar: 4g
-
Alcohol by volume: 25–30% depending on the spirits used
FAQs
Can I shake a Manhattan?
It’s not recommended. Shaking dilutes the drink and gives it a cloudy appearance. Always stir a Manhattan.
Is sweet vermouth necessary?
Yes, for the classic flavor profile. Substituting it changes the drink style (e.g., Dry Manhattan).
What’s the best glassware?
A coupe or martini glass is traditional, but a lowball glass with ice works if you prefer it “on the rocks.”
Can I use other spirits?
You can experiment, but whiskey-based versions are considered true Manhattans. Using Scotch makes it a Rob Roy.
Conclusion
The Manhattan cocktail is a true classic—sophisticated, balanced, and endlessly satisfying. With only three core ingredients, it proves that simplicity can deliver incredible depth of flavor. Whether you’re a whiskey enthusiast or a cocktail novice, mastering the Manhattan is a must.