The Manhattan cocktail is a timeless classic that embodies the elegance and sophistication of early 20th-century America. This cocktail is perfect for those who appreciate the rich, bold flavors of rye whiskey balanced with the sweetness of vermouth and the aromatic complexity of bitters.
When preparing a Manhattan cocktail, you might need to visit a well-stocked liquor store for some of the ingredients. Rye whiskey and sweet vermouth are essential components that may not be in every household's liquor cabinet. Additionally, angostura bitters and maraschino cherries are specialized items that might require a trip to a larger supermarket or specialty store.

Ingredients For Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
Rye whiskey: A type of whiskey made primarily from rye grain, known for its spicy and robust flavor.
Sweet vermouth: A fortified wine flavored with various botanicals, adding a sweet and herbal note to the cocktail.
Angostura bitters: A concentrated bitters made from herbs and spices, used to add depth and complexity to the drink.
Maraschino cherry: A preserved, sweetened cherry used as a garnish, adding a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.
Technique Tip for This Cocktail
When preparing a Manhattan cocktail, ensure that you use a mixing glass with plenty of ice to properly chill the ingredients. Stirring the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters thoroughly will help to integrate the flavors and achieve the perfect dilution. Strain the mixture into a well-chilled cocktail glass to maintain the drink's temperature. Finally, use a high-quality maraschino cherry for garnish to add a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
rye whiskey - Substitute with bourbon: Bourbon offers a slightly sweeter and smoother profile compared to rye whiskey, which can add a different but enjoyable twist to the Manhattan.
rye whiskey - Substitute with Canadian whisky: Canadian whisky often has a lighter and smoother taste, making it a good alternative for those who prefer a less intense flavor.
sweet vermouth - Substitute with dry vermouth: Using dry vermouth will make the cocktail less sweet and more herbaceous, creating a different but still balanced flavor profile.
sweet vermouth - Substitute with amaro: Amaro, an Italian herbal liqueur, can add a complex, bittersweet flavor to the cocktail, making it more aromatic and layered.
angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters will add a citrusy note to the cocktail, providing a fresh and zesty twist.
angostura bitters - Substitute with Peychaud's bitters: Peychaud's bitters have a more floral and anise-forward flavor, which can add a unique complexity to the Manhattan.
maraschino cherry - Substitute with brandied cherry: Brandied cherries offer a richer and more sophisticated flavor compared to the standard maraschino cherry.
maraschino cherry - Substitute with lemon twist: A lemon twist can add a bright, citrusy aroma and flavor, providing a refreshing contrast to the cocktail's richness.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cocktail
How to Store or Freeze This Cocktail
- Begin by preparing your Manhattan cocktail as per the recipe instructions.
- If you plan to store the cocktail for later use, pour the mixed rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters into a clean, airtight glass bottle or jar. Ensure the container is sealed tightly to prevent any air from entering.
- Store the bottled cocktail in the refrigerator. This will keep it chilled and ready to serve. The Manhattan can be stored in the fridge for up to one week, maintaining its flavor and quality.
- For longer storage, consider freezing the cocktail. Pour the mixture into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top to allow for expansion. Seal the container tightly.
- When ready to serve, remove the cocktail from the freezer and let it thaw slightly. Stir well before serving to ensure the ingredients are well mixed.
- Always garnish with a fresh maraschino cherry just before serving to maintain the best presentation and flavor.
- Avoid storing the garnish with the cocktail, as it can lose its texture and flavor over time. Instead, add the maraschino cherry right before serving each drink.
- If you prefer a pre-chilled glass, store your cocktail glasses in the freezer. This will keep your Manhattan extra cold when served.
- Remember, the quality of the ingredients will affect the longevity and taste of your stored cocktail. Use high-quality rye whiskey and sweet vermouth for the best results.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- Pour the Manhattan cocktail into a heat-resistant glass or container.
- Place the container in a bowl of warm water, ensuring the water level is below the rim of the container to prevent any water from mixing with the cocktail.
- Let it sit for a few minutes, gently stirring occasionally to evenly distribute the heat.
- Alternatively, use a sous-vide machine set to a low temperature (around 120°F) to gently warm the cocktail without cooking off the alcohol.
- If you prefer a quicker method, microwave the cocktail in short bursts of 5-10 seconds, stirring in between to avoid overheating.
- Once warmed to your desired temperature, pour the cocktail back into a chilled glass.
- Garnish with a fresh maraschino cherry and enjoy.
Essential Tools for Crafting This Cocktail
Mixing glass: A vessel used to combine the ingredients with ice, ensuring they are well-mixed and chilled.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir the cocktail ingredients thoroughly.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to ensure precise amounts of rye whiskey and sweet vermouth are added.
Ice: Essential for chilling the drink and diluting it slightly to balance the flavors.
Strainer: Used to strain the mixed cocktail into the serving glass, keeping the ice and any solid ingredients out.
Cocktail glass: A chilled glass used to serve the Manhattan, enhancing the drinking experience.
Maraschino cherry: A garnish that adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to the finished cocktail.
Time-Saving Tips for Making This Cocktail
Pre-chill your glass: Keep your cocktail glass in the freezer so it's ready to go when you are.
Measure ingredients in advance: Pre-measure the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters to save time when mixing.
Use a mixing pitcher: A larger pitcher allows you to mix multiple cocktails at once.
Quick garnish: Have maraschino cherries pre-skewered and ready to drop into the glass.
Batch your cocktails: Make a large batch of the Manhattan mix and store it in the fridge for quick serving.

Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 oz Rye whiskey
- 1 oz Sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 piece Maraschino cherry for garnish
Instructions
- 1. Add the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters into a mixing glass with ice and stir well.
- 2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass.
- 3. Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
Nutritional Value
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