Manhattan
Ingredients
- 2 Measure Rye Whiskey
- 1/2 measure Sweet Vermouth
- 1 dash Angostura Bitters
- 1 Cherry
Directions
Stir with ice, and strain into a chilled cocktail glass, and garnish with a cherry.
Traditionally, Rye Whiskey is used in the Manhattan and I find it imparts more character to the drink than a smoother whiskey like a Bourbon or Canadian. Some will add a dash of cherry juice or more Sweet Vermouth for a sweeter cocktail, and while modifying ratios to taste is always acceptable, avoid shaking this cocktail or skipping the bitters. The former dilutes the spirits and results in a watery drink, while the latter avoids the delightful spice and complexity imparted by bitters.
The Manhattan was a favorite of my father’s, and gave me my start in cocktails, with the strong and mysterious flavors exciting the palate more than the swill-grade beer I was drinking during my early twenties. My father’s version at the time was usually with Canadian Club, and a bit heavy on the Sweet Vermouth, and always on the rocks.
Manhattan,