The Manhattan cocktail is a timeless classic that has graced bars and lounges for over a century. Known for its smooth and sophisticated flavor profile, this drink is perfect for those who appreciate a well-balanced, spirit-forward cocktail. Whether you're hosting a dinner party or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, the Manhattan is sure to impress.
When preparing a Manhattan cocktail, you might find that rye whiskey and sweet vermouth are not common staples in every household. These ingredients can be found in the liquor section of most supermarkets or specialty liquor stores. Additionally, Angostura bitters are a key component that adds depth and complexity to the drink, and they are usually located in the cocktail mixers section.

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 aromatic element to the cocktail.
Angostura bitters: A concentrated bitters made from herbs and spices, essential for adding complexity and balance to the drink.
Maraschino cherry: A preserved, sweet cherry used as a garnish, adding a touch of sweetness and visual appeal.
Technique Tip for This Cocktail
When preparing a Manhattan cocktail, ensure that you use fresh ice for stirring. This helps to properly chill the rye whiskey and sweet vermouth without diluting the drink too much. Stirring for about 30 seconds is usually sufficient to achieve the right temperature and dilution. Additionally, always use a chilled martini glass to keep the cocktail cold longer and enhance the overall drinking experience.
Suggested Side Dishes
Alternative Ingredients
rye whiskey - Substitute with bourbon: Bourbon is slightly sweeter and less spicy than rye whiskey, but it still provides a robust flavor that works well in a Manhattan.
sweet vermouth - Substitute with dry vermouth: Dry vermouth will make the cocktail less sweet and more herbaceous, offering a different but still enjoyable flavor profile.
sweet vermouth - Substitute with amaro: Amaro adds a complex, bitter-sweet flavor that can enhance the depth of the cocktail.
angostura bitters - Substitute with orange bitters: Orange bitters provide a citrusy twist that complements the other ingredients while maintaining the cocktail's balance.
maraschino cherry - Substitute with lemon twist: A lemon twist adds a fresh, zesty aroma and a touch of acidity that can brighten the drink.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Cocktail
How to Store / Freeze This Cocktail
- To store a Manhattan cocktail, first ensure you have a clean, airtight container. A glass bottle with a tight seal works best.
- Pour the mixed rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and angostura bitters into the container, leaving a little space at the top to allow for any expansion.
- Seal the container tightly to prevent any air from getting in, which could affect the flavor and quality of the cocktail.
- Label the container with the date of preparation to keep track of its freshness.
- Store the container in the refrigerator if you plan to consume the cocktail within a few days. The cold temperature will help maintain its flavor and prevent any spoilage.
- For longer storage, place the container in the freezer. The high alcohol content in the Manhattan cocktail will prevent it from freezing solid, but it will keep the drink well-preserved for up to three months.
- When ready to serve, remove the container from the refrigerator or freezer and allow it to sit at room temperature for a few minutes if it was frozen.
- Give the container a gentle shake or stir to ensure the ingredients are well-mixed before pouring.
- Serve the Manhattan cocktail in a chilled martini glass and garnish with a maraschino cherry for that classic touch.
How to Reheat Leftovers
- First, ensure you have a mixing glass and ice on hand.
- Pour the leftover Manhattan cocktail into the mixing glass.
- Add a few fresh cubes of ice to the mixing glass.
- Stir gently for about 20-30 seconds to chill and slightly dilute the cocktail.
- Strain the cocktail into a chilled martini glass.
- Garnish with a fresh maraschino cherry to enhance the presentation and flavor.
Best Tools for Crafting This Cocktail
Mixing glass: A vessel used to combine the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters with ice, ensuring they are well-chilled and properly mixed.
Bar spoon: A long-handled spoon used to stir the ingredients in the mixing glass, allowing for a thorough and even mix.
Jigger: A measuring tool used to accurately measure the 2 oz of rye whiskey and 1 oz of sweet vermouth.
Strainer: A tool placed over the mixing glass to strain the chilled liquid into the serving glass, ensuring no ice or unwanted particles make it into the final drink.
Martini glass: A chilled glass used to serve the Manhattan cocktail, enhancing the presentation and experience.
Ice: Essential for chilling the ingredients in the mixing glass, ensuring the cocktail is served cold.
Maraschino cherry: Used as a garnish to add a touch of sweetness and a pop of color to the finished cocktail.
How to Save Time on Making This Cocktail
Pre-chill your glass: Place your martini glass in the freezer for a few minutes before making the cocktail to ensure it is well-chilled.
Measure ingredients ahead: Pre-measure the rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and angostura bitters to save time during preparation.
Use a jigger: A jigger helps you measure ingredients quickly and accurately, ensuring a balanced cocktail every time.
Batch your cocktails: If making multiple Manhattan cocktails, mix larger quantities in a pitcher and store in the fridge, then pour as needed.
Easy garnish: Keep a jar of maraschino cherries handy for quick garnishing.

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