Manhattan Recipe – Few cocktails capture the elegance of early American bartending quite like the Manhattan. Originating in the late 19th century, this iconic drink balances the warmth of whiskey with the sweet herbal complexity of vermouth, rounded by the bitters’ subtle spice. Whether enjoyed at a dimly lit lounge or mixed at home for a refined evening, the Manhattan remains a timeless expression of sophistication and restraint.
Recipe Overview
Cuisines: American, Classic Cocktail
Course: Beverage / Cocktail
Servings: 1 glass
Calories: ~165–190 kcal per serving
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Active Time: 5 minutes
Resting Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 5 minutes
Equipment
To achieve the ideal clarity, chill, and dilution, gather the following bar tools:
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Mixing glass (preferably chilled)
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Bar spoon (long-handled for controlled stirring)
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Jigger (for accurate measuring)
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Hawthorne strainer or julep strainer
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Fine strainer (optional for extra clarity)
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Cocktail coupe or martini glass (chilled)
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Ice (large cubes or clear ice recommended)
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Peeler or channel knife (for citrus garnish, if using)
Ingredients
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2 oz (60 ml) rye whiskey or bourbon
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1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
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2–3 dashes aromatic bitters
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Ice (enough to fill the mixing glass)
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Garnish (choose one):
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Luxardo cherry or cocktail cherry
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Orange peel twist (optional alternative)
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Instructions
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Chill your glass.
Place your cocktail glass in the freezer or fill it briefly with ice water while you prepare the drink. A chilled glass preserves temperature and prevents premature dilution. -
Build the cocktail in a mixing glass.
Add the whiskey, sweet vermouth, and aromatic bitters to the mixing glass. Measure with a jigger to maintain balance between spirit and sweetness. -
Add ice and stir.
Fill the mixing glass with ice and stir gently but consistently for 20–30 seconds. Stirring chills and dilutes the drink without introducing air or cloudiness, producing a silk-smooth texture. -
Strain into the chilled glass.
Discard the ice or water from your serving glass, then strain the mixture using a Hawthorne or julep strainer. For a crystal-clear finish, pass through a fine strainer as well. -
Garnish thoughtfully.
Drop in a cocktail cherry for classic sweetness, or express the oils from an orange peel over the surface and place it on the rim for a brighter aromatic profile. -
Serve immediately.
The Manhattan is best enjoyed fresh, with the aromas of whiskey, vermouth, and bitters harmonizing at peak chill.
Nutrition
| Nutrient | Amount (Per Serving) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 165–190 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 5–8 g |
| Sugars | 4–6 g |
| Fat | 0 g |
| Protein | 0 g |
| Sodium | 2–5 mg |
| Alcohol by Volume (in glass) | ~28–32% |
| Total Volume | ~3 oz (without ice dilution) |
Serving & Presentation Tips
Serve the Manhattan in a stemmed coupe or martini glass to preserve temperature and elevate its refined aesthetic. Because this is a spirit-forward cocktail, avoid shaking; stirring keeps the body silky and prevents froth. High-quality, clear ice leads to cleaner dilution and a smoother mouthfeel. For gatherings, you can pre-batch the base (whiskey + vermouth + bitters) and store it chilled; stir each portion individually with ice just before serving to maintain texture.
Final Thoughts
The Manhattan endures because of its elegant simplicity: three core ingredients, precision in technique, and a commitment to balance. With careful stirring, measured proportions, and a thoughtful garnish, this cocktail becomes more than a drink
