Classics Series: Manhattan

Like an Old Fashioned, a classic Manhattan is another spirit-forward classic cocktail that only takes a couple of ingredients to make, but is hard to get just right. Rather than getting the sweetness from simple syrup or a sugar cube, Manhattans get their sweetness and flavor from vermouth. Vermouth is a type of wine that is typically fortified with brandy and additional aromatic herbs. Sweet vermouth is usually used in Manhattans, while dry vermouth is a key ingredient in martinis. Since vermouths are considered wines, you can usually find them near your closest wine seller. I like my Manhattan with ice and Luxardo maraschino cherries, but you can tailor the ratios and garnishes to your taste.

Classic Manhattan Recipe (1 serving)

• 2.5 oz. bourbon (can also use a rye whiskey)
• 1 oz. sweet vermouth
• 3 dashes Angostura bitters
• 2 Luxardo maraschino cherries for garnish

Equipment

• Cocktail shaker
• Bar spoon
• Jigger
• Hawthorne strainer
• Old fashioned glass, stored in the freezer
• Round ice mold, stored in the freezer (can also use 2×2 inch square ice)

Directions

1. Add the sweet vermouth, bourbon, and bitters to the stainless steel container
2. Add enough ice so that the ice rises above the liquid
3. Use a bar spoon to stir the mixture until the outside of the shaker becomes frosty (30 seconds to a minute)
4. Remove the old fashioned glass from the freezer and add the large ice
5. Place a Hawthorne strainer on top of the shaker and strain the drink into the glass
6. To garnish, cut a piece of bamboo skewer in half and stick the skewer through a twisted orange peel and top with 2 cherries

Cheers!