If you're looking for a great cocktail to make at home, look no further than the Manhattan. This classic drink is perfect for sipping straight up, on the rocks or before dinner, and it's also dangerously easy to make at home.
As with any cocktail, there are many Manhattan cocktail variations, however, they all have one thing in common: whiskey!
Classic Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
- 2oz Bourbon or Rye
- 1oz Sweet Vermouth
- 2 dashes of angostura bitters
- Maraschino cherry for garnish
Are Classic Manhattans Made With Bourbon or Rye?
If you're deciding whether to make your manhattan with Bourbon or Rye, it really comes down to personal preference. Bourbon will pack more of a punch and have more sweet notes, while Rye will be a bit smoother and the flavors will vary. The recipe and ingredients will remain the same, other than the type of whiskey. However, if we had to pick, we'd go with bourbon.
Classic Manhattan Cocktail Recipe Method
- Combine the whiskey, vermouth and bitters in a mixing glass half-filled with ice.
- Stir until chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled manhattan cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a maraschino cherry.
The difference between a classic Manhattan and a perfect manhattan
The difference between a classic Manhattan and a perfect Manhattan comes down the vermouth you use. In the classic you use an ounce of sweet vermouth, whereas in a perfect manhattan you use a mix of sweet and dry vermouth.
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail Recipe
- 2oz Bourbon or Rye
- 1/2 oz Sweet Vermouth
- 1/2 oz dry vermouth
- 2 dashes of angostura bitters
- Lemon twist
The Perfect Manhattan Cocktail Recipe Method
- Combine the whiskey, sweet and dry vermouth and bitters in a mixing glass half-filled with ice.
- Stir until chilled, about 15 seconds.
- Strain into a chilled manhattan cocktail glass.
- Garnish with a lemon twist.
One of our favourite classic whiskey cocktails.
The perfect manhattan cocktail recipe is one of the most popular classic cocktails. This is a great whiskey drink for any occasion, but it’s especially good for sipping on a cool fall night!
