When it comes to booze-forward classic cocktails, the Manhattan is as iconic as they come. Originally one of the most famous cocktails in the world after it was born, the whiskey cocktail has waxed and waned in popularity over the years, but is a forever staple in our book. With a simple ratio and basic ingredients, this is the bitter, not-shy cocktail that will make you feel like a master bartender. Here’s everything you need to know:
What is a Manhattan?
There are few cocktails more storied (or simple!) than the Manhattan. First stirred up in 1894 by a bartender at New York City’s Waldorf Astoria, the defining characteristic is that it uses Scotch whiskey. Over the years, it has stayed in fashion, but with bourbon being a common alcohol of choice.
The ideal bourbon to vermouth ratio to make the best Manhattan is 2:1. Once you’ve nailed the ratio, you can experiment with your favorite whiskeys, vermouths, and bitters.
How to make a Manhattan:
Bourbon is the most common alcohol (and a Delish favorite) used in a Manhattan cocktail, but you can use rye whiskey if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with the flavor profile by using different bourbons, ryes, and vermouths; play around with combinations of your old standbys, or try something new. Airplane bottles are great for this—all the fun, with minimal commitment.
Just like the perfect accessory for any outfit, a few dashes of interesting bitters adds another layer of flavor and intrigue. There’s a big brave world out there beyond angostura: Try walnut, lavender, or black cherry for a fun twist.
Serving a Manhattan:
After you’ve stirred (not shaken) your Manhattan until well-chilled, strain it into a (preferably) frosty couple glass, garnished with a cherry and a few dashes of your favorite bitters. Cherry lovers—don’t feel like you have to stop at just one or two. Load up your glass with however many you’d like… this is your cocktail, make it exactly how you want it.
Made this classic cocktail? Let us know how it went in the comments below!
When it comes to booze-forward classic cocktails, the Manhattan is as iconic as they come. Originally one of the most famous cocktails in the world after it was born, the whiskey cocktail has waxed and waned in popularity over the years, but is a forever staple in our book. With a simple ratio and basic ingredients, this is the bitter, not-shy cocktail that will make you feel like a master bartender. Here’s everything you need to know:
What is a Manhattan?
There are few cocktails more storied (or simple!) than the Manhattan. First stirred up in 1894 by a bartender at New York City’s Waldorf Astoria, the defining characteristic is that it uses Scotch whiskey. Over the years, it has stayed in fashion, but with bourbon being a common alcohol of choice.
The ideal bourbon to vermouth ratio to make the best Manhattan is 2:1. Once you’ve nailed the ratio, you can experiment with your favorite whiskeys, vermouths, and bitters.
How to make a Manhattan:
Bourbon is the most common alcohol (and a Delish favorite) used in a Manhattan cocktail, but you can use rye whiskey if you prefer. Feel free to experiment with the flavor profile by using different bourbons, ryes, and vermouths; play around with combinations of your old standbys, or try something new. Airplane bottles are great for this—all the fun, with minimal commitment.
Just like the perfect accessory for any outfit, a few dashes of interesting bitters adds another layer of flavor and intrigue. There’s a big brave world out there beyond angostura: Try walnut, lavender, or black cherry for a fun twist.
Serving a Manhattan:
After you’ve stirred (not shaken) your Manhattan until well-chilled, strain it into a (preferably) frosty couple glass, garnished with a cherry and a few dashes of your favorite bitters. Cherry lovers—don’t feel like you have to stop at just one or two. Load up your glass with however many you’d like… this is your cocktail, make it exactly how you want it.
Made this classic cocktail? Let us know how it went in the comments below!
- Yields:
-
1
serving(s)
- Prep Time:
- 2 mins
- Total Time:
- 5 mins
Directions
-
- Step 1
Fill a liquid measuring cup or mixing glass with ice. Add bourbon and vermouth and stir until well chilled.
- Step 2Strain into a (preferably frosty) coupe glass. Garnish with cherries and a few dashes of bitters.
- Step 1
