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Manhattan Cocktail Drink

Manhattan Cocktail Recipe

Unwind with this classic Manhattan recipe! This sophisticated cocktail is perfect for any occasion, made with rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and a dash of Angostura bitters.
Prep time: 1 minute
Mixing time: 1 minute
Servings: 1
Calories: 174

Ingredients
 

  • 2 oz Rye Whiskey
  • 1 oz sweet Vermouth
  • 2 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters
  • Ice cubes
  • Maraschino cherry or lemon twist - for garnish, optional

Equipment

  • Cocktail Glass chilled
  • Measuring Jigger
  • Mixing Glass
  • Stirrer or Bar Spoon
  • Strainer

Instructions

  • Prep cocktail glass: Place your cocktail glass in the freezer few hours before or ice it up with ice before starting.
  • Add Bitters: Drop in 2 dashes Angostura aromatic bitters into the mixing glass.
  • Add Vermouth: Measure and add 1 oz sweet Vermouth.
  • Add Rye Whiskey: Pour 2 oz Rye Whiskey into the mixing glass.
  • Stir Gently: Add ice cubes and stir the ingredients together gently with a bar spoon.
  • Strain: Discard the ice from your cocktail glass and strain the mixture.
  • Garnish: Add a maraschino cherry or a lemon twist for garnish.

Notes

Substitutes:

  • Rye Whiskey: If you don't have rye, bourbon makes a good stand-in, but it will make the drink sweeter. I've also used Scotch for a "Rob Roy," a smokier take on a Manhattan.
  • Sweet Vermouth: Dry vermouth can work in a pinch, but you'll lose the traditional Manhattan sweetness. To balance it out, add a dash of simple syrup.
  • Angostura Bitters: If you run out of Angostura, orange bitters can add an interesting twist. It won't be a classic Manhattan, but it'll still be tasty.

Making a Pitcher of Manhattan:

  • Scale: To make a pitcher that serves 8, multiply all the ingredients by 8. So, 16 oz of rye whiskey, 8 oz of sweet vermouth, and 16 dashes of Angostura bitters.
  • Mix: Combine the whiskey, vermouth, and bitters in a large pitcher. Stir well.
  • Serve: Strain the mixture into individual chilled cocktail glasses, garnish as desired, and serve immediately.

Making it Non-Alcoholic:

  • Rye Whiskey Substitute: Opt for a non-alcoholic whiskey alternative widely available in specialty stores.
  • Proceed As Usual: Follow these non-alcoholic ingredients' original steps to enjoy a "mock" Manhattan.

Making it Vegan:

  • Garnish: Skip the maraschino cherry if it's made with non-vegan dyes or additives. Opt for a lemon twist, or find a vegan-friendly cherry brand.