Manhattan Cocktail

Two parts rye whiskey, 1 part sweet vermouth and bitters create the classic Manhattan cocktail. A classy timeless drink with the perfect amount of subtle bitterness and herbal notes accentuated by the vermouth and bitters.

Why this recipe works

Of all the whiskey cocktails in the world from mint juleps to blackberry bourbon lemonade, nothing comes close to the popularity of a classic Manhattan cocktail. This famous drink has a bit of spice from rye whiskey, a touch of bitter-sweetness from the vermouth and bitters, and is accessorized with a garnish of luxardo cherries, maraschino cherries, or an orange peel.

Ingredients you will need

Get all measurements, ingredients, and instructions in the printable version at the end of this post.

Ingredient Info and Substitution Suggestions

WHISKEY – Manhattan cocktails typically use rye whiskey which complements the sweet vermouth, though you can substitute with bourbon if preferred.

VERMOUTH – You can mix both sweet vermouth and dry vermouth for more depth or you can simply use either or. 

BITTERS – For the best herbal botanical notes, use Angostura bitters. This is the most traditional type of bitter used in a Manhattan. Orange bitters work just as well but add a twist of citrusy orange flavor to the drink. Both of these bitters complement this classic cocktail well and are both widely used. It’s up to you!

How to Make a Manhattan Cocktail

These step by step photos and instructions are here to help you visualize how to make this recipe. You can Jump to Recipe to get the printable version of this recipe, complete with measurements and instructions at the bottom.

1. Combine whiskey, sweet red vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice.
2. Stir for 20-30 seconds to chill.
3. Strain into a coupe or martini glass and garnish with an orange peel or a toothpick with a cherry.

Frequently Asked Questions & Expert Tips

Serving Suggestions

Serve straight up garnished with either a maraschino cherry, luxardo cherry, brandied cherry, or an orange peel.

More Cocktail Recipes

• Negroni
• French 75
• Dirty Martini
• Gimlet Cocktail
• Bramble Cocktail
• Prosecco Vodka Grapes

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Manhattan Cocktail

This famous drink has a bit of spice from rye whiskey, a touch of bitter-sweetness from the vermouth and bitters, and is accessorized with a garnish of luxardo cherries, maraschino cherries, or an orange peel.

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IMPORTANT – There are often Frequently Asked Questions within the blog post that you may find helpful. Simply scroll back up to read them!

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Course: Cocktails

Cuisine: American

Servings: 1 cocktail

2 minutes mins

Calories: 179

Author: Amanda Davis

Ingredients

• ▢ 2 oz rye whiskey or bourbon
• ▢ 1 oz sweet red vermouth
• ▢ 3 dashes Angostura bitters or orange bitters. 2-3 dashes

Things You’ll Need

• ▢
  Martini glasses or coupe glass
• ▢
  Jigger

Before You Begin

• Serve straight up garnished with either a maraschino cherry, luxardo cherry, brandied cherry, or an orange peel.
• Manhattan cocktails typically use rye whiskey which complements the sweet vermouth, though you can substitute with bourbon if preferred.
• You can mix both sweet vermouth and dry vermouth for more depth or you can simply use either or. 
• For the best herbal botanical notes, use Angostura bitters. This is the most traditional type of bitter used in a Manhattan. Orange bitters work just as well but add a twist of citrusy orange flavor to the drink. Both of these bitters complement this classic cocktail well and are both widely used. It’s up to you!

Instructions

• Combine whiskey, sweet red vermouth, and bitters in a mixing glass filled with ice.
• Stir for 20-30 seconds to chill.
• Strain into a coupe or martini glass and garnish with an orange peel or a cherry on a toothpick.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cocktail | Calories: 179cal | Carbohydrates: 3g | Protein: 1g | Potassium: 1mg | Sugar: 1g | Iron: 1mg

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