Manhattan Cocktail
A blend of whiskey, sweet vermouth, aromatic bitters, and a brandied cherry – the Manhattan is as iconic as its namesake. The cocktail traces its roots back to the late 19th century, with the first recorded recipe appearing in William Schmidt’s 1892 bartender’s guide. Since then, it’s been a staple for barkeeps and whiskey enthusiasts alike.
Crafting the Perfect Manhattan
Please only share with people over the legal drinking age.
The Manhattan is a simple yet perfectly-balanced combination of whiskey, sweet vermouth, and bitters: It’s not too sweet or too strong.
Our version is made with Jefferson’s Reserve, giving the cocktail a robust flavor, and a long, smooth finish. It’s the secret ingredient that transforms a good Manhattan into a great one!
When it comes to crafting the perfect Manhattan, proportions are key. Start with a generous pour of Jefferson’s Reserve. The sweet vermouth adds a rich, full body to the drink, and a few dashes of bitters tie it all together. Don’t forget the ice – it’s not just for cooling but for subtly diluting the drink to round it out. Give it a good stir, strain it into your preferred glass, and garnish with a cherry for that final flourish.
Aim to find the sweet spot between the warmth of the whiskey and the aromatic, floral notes of the vermouth. For a stronger drink, use a heavier pour of bourbon. For a sweeter touch, add a splash of cherry juice from the jar before you mix.
Ingredients
SERVINGS: 1 PREP TIME: 5 minutes
2 parts Jefferson’s Reserve
1 part sweet vermouth
2 dashes Angostura® bitters
1 dash orange bitters
Brandied cherry (for garnish)
How to Make
- Add the bourbon, sweet vermouth, and bitters to a mixing glass with ice. Stir until well-chilled.
- Strain into a chilled coupe or Nick & Nora glass.
- Garnish with a brandied cherry.
