📝 About This Recipe
Born in the 1870s at the Manhattan Club in New York City, this iconic cocktail remains the gold standard of sophisticated mixology. It is a seductive balance of spicy rye whiskey, velvety sweet vermouth, and a complex tapestry of aromatic bitters. This recipe honors the traditional 2:1 ratio, delivering a drink that is silky, spirits-forward, and timelessly elegant.
🥗 Ingredients
The Spirits
- 2 ounces High-proof Rye Whiskey (Look for 90-100 proof for the best structural integrity)
- 1 ounce Sweet Red Vermouth (Preferably Carpano Antica Formula or Cocchi di Torino)
The Seasoning
- 2 dashes Angostura Aromatic Bitters (Provides the essential spice backbone)
- 1 dash Orange Bitters (Adds a subtle citrus brightness)
- 1 piece Luxardo Maraschino Cherry (Authentic, dark, and syrupy)
- 1 strip Fresh Orange Peel (Optional, for expressing oils over the surface)
The Chill
- 1-2 cups Large, clear ice cubes (High-quality ice prevents over-dilution)
👨🍳 Instructions
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1
Place your Nick and Nora glass or classic Coupé into the freezer for at least 10 minutes prior to mixing; a chilled glass is non-negotiable for a professional Manhattan.
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2
Select a heavy-bottomed glass mixing vessel. Avoid using a shaker, as shaking aerates the spirits and creates a cloudy, thin texture rather than the desired silky mouthfeel.
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3
Add 2 dashes of Angostura bitters and 1 dash of orange bitters directly into the mixing glass.
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4
Measure exactly 1 ounce of high-quality sweet vermouth and pour it over the bitters.
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5
Measure and add 2 ounces of rye whiskey. If you prefer a softer drink, you may substitute bourbon, but rye offers the classic spicy bite.
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6
Fill the mixing glass 3/4 full with large, fresh ice cubes. Ensure the ice is dry and cold, not melting.
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7
Using a long-handled bar spoon, insert the spoon down the inside wall of the glass and stir gently but rapidly for 30-45 seconds.
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8
Observe the frost forming on the outside of the mixing glass; this indicates the drink has reached the optimal temperature of roughly 25°F (-4°C).
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9
Remove your chilled glassware from the freezer.
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10
Place a Julep strainer or Hawthorne strainer over the mixing glass and strain the liquid into the chilled glass in one smooth motion.
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11
Take a fresh orange peel and express the oils by pinching it over the glass, then discard the peel (optional, for a modern twist).
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12
Drop one Luxardo Maraschino cherry into the bottom of the glass or thread it onto a cocktail pick for a beautiful presentation.
💡 Chef's Tips
Always use fresh vermouth; once opened, a bottle should be kept in the refrigerator and used within a month to avoid oxidation. Never shake a Manhattan; stirring preserves the weight of the spirits and ensures a crystal-clear appearance. If using a very high-proof whiskey (over 100 proof), stir for an extra 10 seconds to allow for slightly more dilution. Avoid bright red, neon maraschino cherries; the dark, brandy-soaked Luxardo variety provides the necessary depth of flavor.
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
Pair with a plate of salty Marcona almonds or castelvetrano olives to contrast the sweet vermouth. Excellent alongside a charcuterie board featuring sharp cheddar and spicy salami. Serve as a sophisticated pre-dinner aperitif to stimulate the palate. Pairs beautifully with a rich, dark chocolate truffle for a decadent dessert course.