Classic Manhattan Cocktail
The classic Manhattan cocktail is rich, bold, and silky smooth, with spicy rye, sweet vermouth, and a couple of dashes of bitters. My secret is a fresh bottle of vermouth, which makes all the difference.
When I want something slow and a little special at the end of the day, I pour a Manhattan. It's made with just three ingredients, which is exactly why I think each one matters. There's nowhere for a tired bottle or a rushed stir to hide.
Most Manhattan cocktail recipes focus on the whiskey, but I learned in recipe testing that the vermouth decides the drink. Sweet vermouth is a wine, and once it's opened, it slowly fades. A fresh bottle brings dark cherry, vanilla, and gentle herbal bitterness that wraps around the spicy rye. One that's been sitting in the cabinet for months tastes flat and a little sour, and the whole cocktail follows. Keep it in the fridge, and it stays fresh much longer.
The rest is easy. Stir with plenty of ice for about 30 seconds, until the outside of the glass feels frosty, then strain into a chilled coupe. It's rich and bold but silky smooth, and it tastes like it came from a great cocktail bar with barely any effort.
For a twist on this recipe, try the black Manhattan!
The best sweet vermouth for a Manhattan
My go-to is Cocchi Vermouth di Torino, which makes a Manhattan that's rich and balanced, with hints of cocoa, orange peel, and warm baking spice. It's sweet without being syrupy, and it lets the rye shine instead of burying it.
For something bolder, Carpano Antica Formula is lush with vanilla and dried fruit and holds its own against a high-proof rye. I also enjoy Dolin Rouge, which is lighter and more delicate and pairs well with a softer bourbon Manhattan.
And if you want a reasonably priced bottle you can grab at almost any liquor store, Martini & Rossi Rosso or Cinzano Rosso both make a smooth, easygoing Manhattan that's a little sweeter and simpler, but still delicious.
Classic Manhattan Cocktail
Ingredients
- 2 ounces rye whiskey or bourbon
- 1 ounce sweet vermouth
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- 1 brandied cherry to garnish
Method
- Add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass (or any sturdy glass or jar), then add a handful of ice.2 ounces rye whiskey, 1 ounce sweet vermouth, 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Stir until cold (about 30 seconds), then strain into a coupe glass or Nick & Nora glass and garnish with a brandied cherry on a cocktail skewer.1 brandied cherry
Video
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!
