Have you heard of the Manhattan drink template? A template for a drink? Yes, the recipe for this old-school drink is versatile, and everyone loves it because of the variations they can create with it.
Further, unlike Martini, the ratio of whiskey and vermouth always remains constant in Manhattan drinks. You cannot tweak the 2:1 ratio. So, you can always expect consistency and smoothness in the taste.
So, if you want to enjoy your me time on a Sunday evening and enjoy your favorite movie, choose this drink and a few slices of cheese to be your companions.
What Is So Special About Manhattan Drink?
With its origin in the 1880s, the Manhattan classic cocktail has to be something very special to enjoy this huge popularity. I love it because of how it kicks the palette with the perfect balance of bitter and sweet taste.
If you are a connoisseur, you will know how sugar in a drink can mellow down the heat of alcohol. It also gives you a very fulfilling experience, and you get to cherish the subtle taste and texture of whiskey in layers. In the Manhattan cocktail, sugar comes from the use of sugar vermouth.
At the same time, the bitter taste adds depth to the drink, and it’s like a match made in heaven, complementing the “aging oak” base note of the spirit.
Further, the classic Manhattan cocktail is much beyond an alcoholic drink with a sweet and bitter taste. Its aromatic profile is rich, and the right (2:1) ratio of spirit and vermouth makes it a reliable formula for cocktails. Overall, it has the balance and structure your palette craves while having a good cocktail drink.
How To Make Manhattan Drink At Home?
Before I get into the recipe, I must give you some clarity about the use of whiskey in the drink. Which is the best whiskey for a Manhattan cocktail? Should I pick Rye, or should I go for bourbon whiskey?
Well, the answer is that the choice depends on what you like. Some even go for a mix of bourbon and rye whiskey to make the cocktail spicier and fuller.
When Will I Choose Rye Whiskey For Manhattan Drink?
- To make the Manhattan cocktail spicier
- If you want to add a peppery note to the drink
- To complement the round and fuller profile of Manhattan drink, coming from sweet vermouth
When Will I Choose Bourbon Whiskey For Manhattan Drink?
- If you love the oaky profile of the whiskey
- To balance the sweetness of vermouth with its bitter-sweet taste
- To add more flavor to your drink
What Is The Complete Ingredient List For Making Manhattan Cocktails?
- Rye or Bourbon Whiskey: 2 Ounce (I usually go for rye whiskey)
- Sweet Vermouth: 1 Ounce
- Angostura Bitters: 2 Dashes
- Brandied Cherries or Lemon Twists: For Garnishing
Manhattan Drink Recipe
- First, add rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters in the right ratio into a mixing glass.
- Give the mixture a good stir and add a few cubes of ice.
- The cocktail should be chilled.
- Pour the chilled mix into coup glasses.
- Garnish the glasses with cherries or lemon twists according to your choice.
That’s it! You have a perfect glass of Manhattan cocktail ready for you! It’s time for joie de vivre, and enjoy your own company with this classic, fulfilling cocktail.
Do You Want To Try Some Variations Of Manhattan Drink?
Despite a steady and strict template, Manhattan drink has many variations. These variations have been there for quite some time. So, let’s have a look at the table below to know the names and how they are different.
| Name Of The Variant | Variation |
|---|---|
| Vieux Carré | Use of whiskey and cognac as the base Benedictine is used along with standard bitters |
| Revolver | Use of coffee liquor instead of sweet vermouth |
| Rob Roy | It has Scotch whiskey. |
| Waldorf | It’s more boozy, coming in an absinthe-rinsed glass. |
| Bobby Burns | It has Benedictine as a bitter. It uses Scotch whiskey as the base spirit, along with sweet vermouth. |
| Monte Carlo | It mixes spirit with Benedictine in a 2:1 ratio instead of using sweet vermouth. |
| Perfect Manhattan | Perfect Manhattan drink has sweet and dry vermouth in an equal ratio. |
| Martinez | It has Benedictine as a bitter. It uses Scotch whiskey as the base spirit, along with sweet vermouth. |
Snacks You Can Have With Classic Manhattan Cocktail
So, the stage is all set, and you are ready to enjoy your evening with the best Manhattan drink. How about getting some really cool snacks along with cheese and berries?
Here are a few suggestions for you to try.
Oysters: Keeping It Simple And Classy
Do you love oysters? You have found the perfect snacking companion for your Manhattan cocktail. But why are oysters a great choice for Manhattan drink?
The simple and subtle taste of oysters perfectly complements the complexity of the cocktail. Further, oysters have natural salinity. The salinity of oysters helps to better savor the flavor and texture of the drink. In addition, it’s a very classy combo. So, it can be like spending an evening like a king or queen.
Peanut Chicken Skewers
Do you want to complement the full and sweet taste of Manhattan cocktails? Get some peanut chicken skewers.
With the properly marinated and cooked chicken pieces melting in your mouth, you will enjoy a gulp of the Manhattan cocktail more.
Further, the peanut butter has a sweet and savory flavor. That works well with the bitter-sweet flavor of the drink.
Bacon wraps, mini sliders or an elaborate cheese spread are some of the other snacking options you can try with Manhattan cocktails.
That’s it! You have your drink and food ready. So, it’s time for a Christmas movie marathon.
Final Words
As the days make you crave warmth and your palette demands something exquisite, make a Manhattan drink at home and experience luxury. You can try the classic recipe or explore the variations as discussed in the guide.
Do you like the recipe I have shared here? Does your family have a secret recipe for Manhattan cocktail variations? Don’t forget to share. Great food, a glass of Manhattan cocktail, and movies! Can you think of a better Christmas weekend? Cheers!
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