Manhattan Cocktail Recipe – An eternal symbol of elegance and brave taste, the Manhattan Cocktail Recipe is always at hand for a whiskey fan and a true cocktail connoisseur. The story of this sophisticated cocktail dates back hundreds of years, as this drink went through the trials and tribulations of a 19th-century speakeasy, to the luxurious bar, and into the homes of friends and colleagues.

Smooth and slightly bitter with a taste that is sweet, the Manhattan combines the warmth of whiskey, the complexity of vermouth, and a sprinkle of aromatic bitters. It does not matter whether you are new to mixology or have already been a bartender; you need to learn how to produce a perfect Manhattan cocktail.
Recipe Overview
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Prep Time: 5 minutes
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Active Time: 5 minutes
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Resting Time: 0 minutes
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Total Time: 5 minutes
Cuisines
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American
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Classic Cocktails
Course
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Beverage
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Cocktail
Servings
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1 cocktail
Calories
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Approximately 170 kcal per serving
Equipment
To craft a flawless Manhattan, you’ll need the following tools:
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Mixing glass
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Bar spoon
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Jigger (for measuring)
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Hawthorne strainer
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Coupe or martini glass
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Cocktail pick (optional, for garnish)
Ingredients
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2 oz (60 ml) rye whiskey (or bourbon for a smoother version)
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1 oz (30 ml) sweet vermouth
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2–3 dashes Angostura bitters
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Ice (for stirring)
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Maraschino cherry or orange peel (for garnish)
Instructions
1. Ice the Glass
You would want to have your serving glass in the freezer or add ice water to it beforehand. Such a cocktail should be served in a cold glass to remain intact and elegant.
2. Combine Ingredients
The rye whiskey, sweet vermouth, and Angostura bitters should be added in a mixing glass. In case you want a slightly less sweet cocktail, use a little less vermouth in it or replace it with the dry version.
3. Place Ice and Stir
Put abundant ice into a mixing glass. Gently stir up the mixture in approximately 30 seconds. This cools the cocktail and also dilutes it a little, which improves taste and texture.
4. Straining Glass
Pull out your now chilled service glass from the freezer or dump out the ice water. Pour cocktail into the glass with the help of a Hawthorne strainer.
5. Garnish and serve
Put a maraschino cherry in the glass or pare an orange and squeeze its juice over the drink and leave it on the rim. Serve at once, and eat.
Nutrition
Nutrient | Amount |
Calories | 170 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 4 g |
Sugars | 3 g |
Fat | 0 g |
Protein | 0 g |
Sodium | 5 mg |
Alcohol | ~20–22 g |

Serving Suggestions
Glassware: There are other glasses that can be used, but to maintain a fancy level, serve the drink in a stemmed coupe glass or a martini glass.
Occasions: A great choice of dinner parties, holiday toasts, dating or relaxation in style.
Pairing: Roasted nuts, aged cheese, dark chocolate, or charcuterie boards pair well with it.
Why You will Love this Cocktail
Classy and classic. A piece of history of the cocktail
Only a few ingredients used – only 3 main ingredients
Mix and matchable – can be easily changed to taste preferences
Fast and convenient. No time needed
Final Thoughts
The Manhattan Cocktail Recipe is a monologue in the balance, history, and taste. It tastes delicious and full-bodied, whether you enjoy it in a jazz bar or at home. It is not only a drink, but a ritual. Along with learning Manhattan, you become a better mixologist, adding a level to your already growing cocktail portfolio, but you also gain an acquaintance with one of the most worshipped products of mixology. Give it a shot and you too will enjoy tasting the exquisiteness.