The Perfect Classic Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
The cocktail world is filled with a variety of drinks, but there are some that have stood the test of time and remain popular to this day. One such classic cocktail is the Manhattan, a drink that has been around for over a century.
This cocktail is a staple in bars and restaurants all over the world and is loved by whiskey lovers everywhere. In this blog post, we will be sharing the perfect classic Manhattan cocktail recipe, along with its origin story and tips to make the best Manhattan at home.
History of the Manhattan:
Like many classic cocktails, the true origin of the Manhattan is a bit of a mystery. There are several stories surrounding its creation, but the most widely accepted one dates back to the late 1800s. It is said that the Manhattan was first created at New York City’s Manhattan Club for a banquet hosted by Lady Randolph Churchill, the mother of Winston Churchill. The drink was named after the club and quickly became a hit among the guests.
Another popular story claims that the Manhattan was created at a bar on Houston Street in New York City, where it was named after the area code. And yet, another narrative of the activities of Winston Churchill's mother suggests that she created the drink herself. However, regardless of its origins, the Manhattan has stood the test of time and remains one of the oldest cocktails in history.
How To Make A Classic Manhattan:
Ingredients:
To make the perfect classic Manhattan cocktail, you will need:
2 ounces of rye whiskey
3 dashes of Angostura bitters
1 ounce of sweet vermouth
Garnish: maraschino cherry
Some variations of the Manhattan also use dry vermouth or a mix of both dry and sweet vermouth. Other types of whiskey, such as Canadian whisky or scotch, can also be used. However, for the traditional and most authentic Manhattan, rye whiskey is the preferred choice.
Mixing the Perfect Manhattan:
To mix the perfect Manhattan cocktail, you will need a mixing glass, a cocktail shaker, a strainer, and a chilled glass. You can use a martini glass or a coupe glass for a more elegant presentation. Here’s how to make it:
1. In a mixing glass, add 2 ounces of rye whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
2. Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds. This will chill and dilute the drink, creating a smoother and more balanced flavor.
3. Strain the mixture into a chilled glass using a strainer.
4. Garnish with a maraschino cherry. You can also add a twist of orange peel for a hint of citrus flavor.
Tips for Making the Best Manhattan:
1. Use good quality ingredients: Since the Manhattan only has a few simple ingredients, it is important to use high-quality ones. This will ensure that your drink has a balanced and delicious flavor.
2. Experiment with different vermouths: The type of vermouth you use will greatly affect the flavor profile of your Manhattan. You can try different vermouths, such as Carpano Antica or Punt e Mes, to see which one you prefer.
3. Chill your glass: For a perfectly chilled Manhattan, make sure to chill your glass in the freezer before making the drink. This will ensure that your drink stays cold for longer.
4. Add a hint of bitters: If you want to enhance the flavor of your Manhattan, try adding a dash of orange bitters in addition to the Angostura bitters.
5. Try different garnishes: While a maraschino cherry is the traditional garnish for a Manhattan, you can also use other garnishes like a Luxardo cherry, lemon twist, or even a brandied cherry for a twist on the classic.
The Manhattan is a classic cocktail that has stood the test of time and remains a favorite among whiskey lovers. With its simple ingredients and easy mixing process, it has become one of the go-to cocktails for many. Whether you prefer it strong or with a hint of sweetness, the Manhattan can be easily customized to suit your taste.
So why not try making this great cocktail at home and impress your friends and family with your mixology skills? Cheers!
THE PERFECT CLASSIC MANHATTAN COCKTAIL RECIPE
Ingredients
- 2 ounces of rye whiskey
- 3 dashes of Angostura bitters
- 1 ounce of sweet vermouth
- Garnish: maraschino cherry
Instructions
- In a mixing glass, add 2 ounces of rye whiskey, 1 ounce of sweet vermouth, and 3 dashes of Angostura bitters.
- Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir for about 30 seconds. This will chill and dilute the drink, creating a smoother and more balanced flavor.
- Strain the mixture into a chilled glass using a strainer.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry and enjoy!
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